Justin on the road back to being the best father he can to his kids

For CVGT Employment participant Justin, life has not been an easy road. He was born in Adelaide and moved around a lot as a kid, struggled with school, and failed to complete high school, leaving at 15 years of age. He began working his first job at 13 years old to help his family make ends meet.

Poor mental health for many years which led Justin to daily usage of drugs and alcohol, which combined with his lack of any qualifications, made it nearly impossible to hold down a job.

 Eventually Justin hit rock bottom and attempted to commit suicide a few times, which resulted in spending time in a detox facility in Ballarat. Whist staying there, Justin had no family support, with his only point of connection being with his CVGT Employment Consultant Paul, who would call me every couple of days to check in, listen and empathise with what Justin was going through.

After returning to Horsham, his employment consultant Paul connected him with the Grampians Community Health Making a Change (MAC) non-residential rehab program, as well as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).  At the start it was very daunting for Justin, but Paul would make time for him 2 or 3 times a week to offer any support he needed.

Describing the support he received through CVGT Employment, Justin had this to say:

It’s been great, can’t believe the support they have offered, they have gone above and beyond what I have experienced from any other job provider, they genuinely care and make me feel valued. They came up with a plan that was suited to my circumstances, and I felt in control of how fast/slow I wanted to go during my rehabilitation.
Justin,
CVGT Employment participant

In Horsham, Justin attended every appointment and showed a genuine intent to improve his situation. Justin and his employment consultant Paul worked on a plan that would allow Justin to do limited work hours as well as attending the MAC rehabilitation program and AA – with the ultimate goal being a return to full time employment when Justin felt ready. Eventually Justin was able to obtain a job at a motel as a cleaner/property maintenance person for 20 hours per week.

This job was a good first step to get back into the work force, it allowed me time to attend MAC & AA, as well as allowing me time to focus on making improvements to myself.
Justin,
CVGT Employment participant

Justin has been enjoying his job, with good work hours & great people to work with. Since he started working, he still has regular check ins with Paul on his wellbeing and anything else he needs to assist to keep him on track.

Justin’s employment consultant Paul has noticed a huge change in Justin in the time he has been working with him.

During the last 6 months the change has been phenomenal, Justin has remained drug & alcohol free, he attends his appointments, and when he can’t, he lets us know in advance, he answers every phone call, and he looks a lot healthier, he has also regained his driver’s licence, and is trying to be the father for his kids that he never had. Justin is now ready to move into fulltime work.
Paul,
CVGT Employment consultant

For other people looking to find work out there, Justin offered this advice:

Never be afraid to give anything a go, learning new stuff is always a good thing.
Justin,
CVGT Employment participant

Connect to CVGT Employment

Looking for work? Our team is here to provide dedicated support every step of the way.
Call 132 848 or visit cvgt.com.au to learn more.

You can also visit into our local CVGT Employment Horsham office or find an office near you.