Emily's Story

Despite the odds stacked against me

Being exited from clinical service after 17 months of care is a milestone I’m still really proud of.

The anxiety I was faced with, thinking about getting back into work, was huge for many reasons. I was lucky to be paired with a lovely employment consultant, and from our first appointment, she made me feel like I was in control, reassuring me I was doing my best — reaching out for support, using the skills and tools I had. The biggest part for me was actually believing I do have skills and I am good enough.

We had weekly appointments, giving me structure and routine. We talked about the work I wanted, how my mental health challenges might impact me, and what jobs matched my needs. I really appreciated the approach that was used because I felt I was being listened to, and I wasn’t being pressured to apply for any and every job available — the focus was on finding work that aligned with my strengths, supported my wellbeing, and gave me the opportunity to grow.

My consultant helped me build my CV and cover letters, and before any interviews other Workwise consultants ran mock interviews with me to build my confidence. After about three months, I was offered two jobs within two days.

When I was shown the coordinator role, I was interested — but I had a feeling I’d just get overlooked. Luckily, my consultant had an existing connection there. She helped me apply, but also personally handed over my CV and told them she believed in my ability to do the job. Thanks to someone simply believing in me, I was able to believe in myself and found the confidence to show what I could bring to the role.

Since starting work, I feel far more confident and happy in myself, because I can demonstrate to myself that I have the skills to effectively get my work done. I am here because of who I’ve chosen to be as a person and the effort I’ve continued to put in, despite having the odds stacked against me.

I’ve been shown what healthy work relationships really look like. Since joining, my role has grown from 20 to 40 hours per week, reflecting not only an increase in hours but also the confidence, skills, and responsibilities I’ve developed along the way.

Being nominated for – and winning – a staff award reminded me how far I’ve come, and the value I bring to those around me. I look at everything I studied over the years – web design, programming, databases, UI design, project management, strategic marketing and management, graduating with an A minus – and it feels crazy that I didn’t believe in myself before.

Thanks to Workwise and Te Whatu Ora for the support that got me here. You’ve made a difference in my life, as you have for many before me, and will for many after.