Join us for an interactive and participatory full-day workshop that aims to bring families together to connect and increase confidence to seek out meaningful, paid employment for their secondary school student with disability.

This workshop will enable participants to get actively started in a range of processes so they leave with some concrete plans and strategies to find work for their family member.

Participants will hear stories and experiences from people with a disability and their family members about practical tips and strategies when planning for and finding real and meaningful work.

This workshop covers:

Uncovering and identifying individual strengths and interests and using them as a guide for creating potential work roles
Identifying the conditions that help set up your family member for success in work
Identifying community connections and contacts to approach for work
Practical strategies and tips on working collaboratively with other professionals or services
Developing a positive pitch to get the job
Exploring what good employment support looks like and how to find the right people to support your family member

Download the Flyer here (pdf)

Download the Accessible flyer here (word doc)

About the Presenters:

Gina Barwell-Pickup started at CRU in August 2020 as a consultant in the ‘School to Work’ project. Since studying business at university, Gina has held a broad range of roles in a variety of industries including hotels, education and in State government and small business. Additional experience in recruitment will equip her well to assist students to get ready for work. Gina is passionate about the value of employment for people with disability and is currently supporting her own teenager on this journey.

Casey Northam is a Community Resource Facilitator with CRU. Casey has worked in community development and social justice focused roles and is an experienced group facilitator and trainer. After a brief stint as a Local Area Coordinator, Casey worked with individuals with disability and families and facilitated the co-design of information and resources by and for LGBTIQAP+ people with intellectual disability. Casey is passionate about all people having what they need to pursue a meaningful life as determined by them.

Who Should Attend?

This workshop will be of interest to anyone who is thinking about future work for a family member who is a secondary school student with disability – whether as a parent, family member, friend, ally or in a work role.

Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns about your ability to participate.

There is a small fee to attend workshops, but if cost is a barrier please get in touch to discuss what may be possible.

About CRU:

For over 30 years, Community Resource Unit has been working across Queensland to help people with disability take control of their lives and take their place in their community.

CRU (QLD), Resourcing Inclusive Communities, an initiative of Family Advocacy (NSW) and Imagine More (ACT) will work together on a new three year project called ‘School to Work’.

'School to Work’ aims to inspire, increase confidence and motivate students with disability to seek and find meaningful employment with the help and support of their family and community.

The project is being provided as part of the Community Inclusion Capacity Development program through The Department of Social Services.