Back to Work

The Community Engagement program has been running for a number of years now with placements at local businesses throughout Bayside.

The program is a way for Bayley House clients to connect the community and gain real world job experience with a bit of a safety net. Our Community Liaison officer, Matt has worked closely with employers within the community such as Coles, Bambini, GEALC and Middle Brighton Newsagency to secure spots for our eager workers.

The past months have seen many clients return to their positions as well as some clients trying community engagement for the first time.

Robbie has returned to his role at Middle Brighton Newsagency. Robbie can be found vacuuming the store each Wednesday morning, with the support of friendly staff such as Hannah and Kath. Robbie takes great pride in the duties he carries out in the store and was thrilled to be back.

Jane returned to her volunteer role at Brighton Medical Clinic which was just like riding a bike! After a long break, clinic manager Melinda and her team welcomed Jane back with open arms. Jane quickly hit her stride carrying out allocated cleaning tasks and stamping envelopes before heading off to the post office for the mail run. Matt commented that it ‘was great to see how embraced Jane is, the entire team seemed genuinely chuffed that she has returned’.

Katherine boarded the train and headed back to volunteer at St Stephens Op Shop, Gardenvale. Familiar and friendly faces Thelma and Helen were there to greet her, before she turned her attention to in store duties such as making sure the shelves were tidy and putting new stock out on display.

But wait there’s more! Carmelo returned to Middle Brighton Station and Jordan joined him for a trial. Jordan was warmly welcomed by both Patsy and Carmelo today. He marked his first visit by assisting Carmelo to plant a new native. Jordan also assisted with some watering and rubbish collection with the ‘grabbers’. Only a little encouragement was required as Jordan was an absolute natural at the tasks that are required for keeping the station looking good for commuters.

If you think your business might be a good fit for our Community Engagement program, then please get in touch. We have many eager workers ready to build upon their skills.