Establishing a strong partnership with their local Disability Employment Services has enabled the hospital to access high quality applicants who meet the inherent requirements of vacant positions. Through these partnerships, the hospital has successfully employed eight caregivers.
One of those eight is David Murnane, who joined St John of God Bendigo Hospital through Western District Employment Access as a caregiver on an initial six-month contract. Two years on and David continues to be an integral part of the hospital, excelling within his role.
A contributing factor to his success is the understanding, support and positive attitude from the hospital caregivers who work alongside him as his team members.
St John of God Bendigo Hospital Director of Mission, Denis Byrne, said it has been a joy to see David’s growth throughout his tenure at the hospital. David is a passionate and enthusiastic caregiver who brings unique qualities and talents to his role. Initially shy, David is now a cheerful and confident colleague whose professionalism and commitment to the work has gone from strength to strength.
David was recently invited to speak at the Bendigo Adelaide Bank Community Forum, where he spoke to more than 80 people about his transition into the workforce and his positive experiences at St John of God Bendigo Hospital.
David’s message to people in similar circumstances to him is to not give up on finding the right and good employers who are open to giving people with disability an equal employment opportunity.
St John of God Bendigo Hospital’s partnership agreements with three Disability Employment Service providers have enabled employment opportunities to be tailored to meet the needs of both the job seeker and the hospital. Recruitment and management now appreciate that recruiting to excellence can include people with disability.