Beacon Adelaide celebrated its first birthday in June, under the Beacon Laundry banner. Unlike Beacon Bangalow, the Adelaide site was previously a supported employment workplace. Today, Bedford Group and White Box Enterprises are working together to transform the workplace to a jobs-focused social enterprise. Central to this is an open employment transition program designed to support people with disabilities into more independent and meaningful roles in the organisation. Jim is the first employee to successfully transition to open employment.
After five years in supported employment, Jim is now thriving in his new role as a delivery driver at Beacon Adelaide.
Jim’s transition was made possible through Beacon’s open employment transition program. Led by Valerie Deneen, Beacon Adelaide’s People and Pathways Manager, the program offers employees with intellectual disabilities a tailored pathway to open employment. It includes a trial period, structured hands-on training, mentoring, and workplace assessments to ensure individuals are set up for success.
“Valerie really helped me make the change,” says Jim. “And Paul supported me with the driving training. My parents and support staff also encouraged me.”
According to Valerie: “It’s a very individualised approach – we assess the employee based on their needs and appetite for change, and if they are willing and able, we support them through the transition program. We have five employees going through the process at the moment, with Jim being the first to complete the transition to open employment.”
As part of the transition, Jim learned how to plan efficient delivery routes, communicate professionally with customers, and take more initiative in his daily tasks. He now delivers linen to Beacon’s clients including hospitals and aged care facilities.
The new responsibilities keep Jim focused and connected to the wider community. “My mental health has really improved since becoming a driver. I’m proud of what I can do now.”
Jim’s journey is one that Beacon Adelaide hopes to replicate for several others. The transition program gives supported employees a chance to grow at their own pace, with the support and guidance they need. “I’d say to anyone thinking about making the move: give it a try. You get support all the way, and if you stick with the training, you’ll love it.”
Looking ahead, Jim’s setting his sights on even more: learning new delivery routes, earning a forklift license, and one day driving the larger truck. Outside of work, Jim plays Inclusive League footy for Kenilworth Football Club, with two premierships under his belt. He also loves going to the gym, watching movies, getting tattoos, and spending time with his family.
If you’re curious to learn more about Beacon Adelaide’s transition program, drop us an email at hello@beaconadelaide.com.au
