This year, Barkuma launched the Peer Worker Program to provide employees with further opportunities to build on their leadership skills, contribute to their team and working environment, and reach their employment goals. Established under a new staffing model, a team of 15 employees from Barkuma’s Australian Disability Enterprise based at Holden Hill and Elizabeth have undertaken this unique opportunity.
The program aligns with Barkuma’s commitment to ensure people with disability have equal opportunity to learn, grow and contribute to their working environment and community, and to be recognised for the significant value they bring to the workplace. The program aims to upskill and develop individuals’ leadership qualities, provide pathways towards open employment, and support better financial and personal outcomes.
One of the successful Peer Worker candidates, Chloe, has enjoyed learning new skills under the program and helping others, “I like learning how to do all the different jobs and I love helping people … we all get along, we’re all friends here.”
Her colleague and fellow program participant, Graham, is approaching twelve years with Barkuma. He agrees about the workplace camaraderie and feels well supported by the supervisors. Graham appreciates the opportunity to work with computers and gain further safety skills.
“I’m looking forward to learning the evacuation procedure,” he said.
As part of their development, the Peer Workers undertake formal training in first aid, fire warden and optional forklift training. The Peer Workers support work experience placements, and provide additional emotional and work-related support to new and existing staff.
Barkuma’s Executive Manager of Employment Programs and Outcomes Cherie Jolly is proud that the new program supports development of skills that will strengthen pathways to open employment, and encourages employees who enjoy their work and love helping others.
“You can see a lift in them. There’s a lot of pride.”
Cherie adds that the Peer Worker program makes “aspirations much more tangible.”
The future looks bright for the Peer Workers. The comprehensive program lays a solid foundation, equipping participants for further opportunities within Barkuma’s Australian Disability Enterprise, moving into open employment, or a combination of both.
Barkuma’s commercial service is a Quality Endorsed and HACCP Certified company with more than 50 years’ experience. Working with South Australian businesses, Barkuma delivers high quality, cost effective and innovative solutions. The new state of the art facilities meets the changing needs of industry including filling, weighing, sorting, packaging, labelling, assembly, confidential document destruction, cosmetic and general packaging, mail outs and promotion, sorting, industrial rags and quality rework. By working with Barkuma, you are supporting employment opportunities for over 150 people with disability.
Get in touch on 8414 7100, email barkuma@barkuma.com.au, or visit the Barkuma website >
