An inclusive workplace is the best foundation to provide employment opportunities for people in a vulnerable position. A central part of the Give Where You Live Foundation’s mission is about creating these opportunities. This is where GROW comes in.
Lack of job availability, flexible work arrangements, accessing training and discriminatory attitudes are examples of some barriers that that prevent an inclusive workplace. GROW works to empower businesses to make meaningful, positive change in our community.
An organisation that supports inclusivity in our community is Fagg’s Mitre 10 Belmont Timber. As long-term supporters of GROW since its inception in 2015, they work to offer sustainable jobs for people in vulnerable positions.
In collaboration with GForce and 4GR Narelle Lehmann, Senior Administrator of Fagg’s Mitre 10 Belmont Timber said the steps to make this change involved comprehending “the vastly different backgrounds and experiences of those we are trying to assist… by taking the time to understand; to not just assume and judge”.
The team at Fagg’s Mitre 10 Belmont Timber have attributed a part of this approach to coaching and getting new employees work ready to ensure they feel safe and supported including support through buddies and mentors to check in daily (after their initial first few days of induction).
They’re aware of the positive impacts of increasing inclusion in our community (and in their business!) and understand the life-changing opportunity these jobs can provide.
Narelle says, “We are mindful of just what a big deal it is for people who have been unemployed to get used to a new routine… and understand how important it is to be flexible and patient”.
“The difference it can make to someone’s life is so heartening to see. We never really know what is going on in the backgrounds of peoples’ lives. To be a role model, or a mentor for a person trying to break the cycle of unemployment is a very satisfying part of my job.”
The Give Where You Live Foundation’s mission is to create a fairer, more inclusive community. This includes creating equal access to employment opportunities for all in our community. GROW is one way the Foundation helps do this.
Learn more about GROW here.