WITH determination and the right support, 18-year-old Mackay local Joshua has found a job he loves – and it’s changed his life.
Living with Level 3 autism, an intellectual disability and obsessive-compulsive disorder, Joshua is now working 20 hours a week delivering catalogues.
The job has given him a sense of purpose, boosted his independence and improved his confidence.
Using his NDIS funding, Joshua connected with Feros Care, a Queensland disability support provider.
Local area coordinator Emily spent time getting to know Joshua, his interests and strengths.
“All he wanted was to work,” Emily said. “We focused on finding something that would suit his abilities and give him a sense of achievement.”
When a catalogue delivery role came up, Emily supported Joshua through the application process – and he got the job.
Starting with just one day a week, his hours gradually increased as his confidence grew.
“He really enjoys sorting the catalogues, rolling them, loading up his delivery trolley, and heading out with his support worker,” Emily said. “Now he walks around 26 kilometres a week!”
That physical effort is not only part of his job – it’s improving his health.
After his plastic trolley broke, Joshua’s dad Graeme stepped in and built him a sturdy metal version, which has made the deliveries much easier.
His mum, Shirley, says the transformation has been remarkable.
“Joshua is much happier. He sees his dad and brother go to work, so it made sense to him that he should work too,” she said.
“Even though he can’t read or write, he’s found something he’s good at and enjoys. We’re incredibly proud of him.
“This job has given him purpose.”
Source: Joshua’s job fills him with pride and purpose | NDIS
