Even today, it can be difficult for people to comprehend that not all disabilities are visible. The truth is, disability is much more than what meets the eye. There are many Australians living with invisible disabilities who may be unaware that they are eligible for Disability Employment Services (DES), to help them find a job.
April has experienced the benefits of DES first-hand and is passionate about asking for help when you need it.
“I grew up very dyslexic. It’s not something that shows outwardly, so sometimes it’s a tricky one. I struggle with some words more than others, and can still spell my name wrong,” says April.
April spent most of her life as a business owner, and her staff have always handled the paperwork and other areas she had trouble with. A few years ago though, April’s life experienced a shake-up, and she was forced to step away from her businesses. She connected with EPIC Assist (EPIC) who helped her find her feet at InTouch Massage Chairs, after eight years of unemployment.
“When I was put onto EPIC, that was a game changer for me. They’ve been amazing. They encouraged me and did some job and interview training. Even though I used to give interviews, it was still good to have a refresher and look at it in a different light,” explains April.
For April, Centrelink was an overwhelming maze of forms she found herself struggling to work through. To have EPIC’s support in organising and handling the paperwork was an incredible relief.
“Paperwork, black-on-white, any time it comes to forms – and everything you have to do nowadays is on forms – is scary as for me. So having someone who can help you through that is amazing,” says April.
“There were many times when I was broken and in quite a dangerous spot. To actually have that shield and that protection from EPIC was a game changer.”
These days, things couldn’t be better for April, who is frequently found amongst InTouch Massage Chairs’ top salespeople. She’s proud of her progress and says EPIC has helped her find work that brings meaning to her life.
“It’s been amazing, because I get to sell a product that I love and that helps people,” says April.
“I recommend EPIC, I really do.”