A creative at heart, Hireup client Graeme loves to paint, and finds inspiration while enjoying a train or ferry trip to the beach. Accompanying Graeme is his support worker Daniel who shares Graeme’s interest in art. “I used to work as a graphic designer,” says Daniel, “and have been able to show him a few techniques to use with watercolor and acrylic.”
“Graeme likes all things trains, planes, and ferries, and we've done many artworks of the things he likes. It's been a buzz to do that with him in that way.”
With a solid six-year tenure as a Hireup support worker and 18 years in the sector, Daniel reflects on his journey. From government workshops to day programs and group homes, he's witnessed varied approaches to disability support. Joining Hireup has been a “breath of fresh air” for Daniel, who values the easy to use technology and person-centric approach to establishing and maintaining disability support relationships.
Beyond the strokes of a paintbrush, Graeme's creative pursuits include learning to play the guitar. “He’s really determined,” says Daniel, “and while I don’t play myself I’ve helped encourage and guide him practicing at home and made suggestions that his teacher has appreciated.”
Daniel's commitment to Graeme's well-being is recognised with a Hireup Good Life Award, celebrating his outstanding support work.
Nominated by Graeme’s sister and Hireup account manager, Lynn writes:
“Thanks to Daniel’s extraordinary contributions, my brother enjoys not a ‘good’ but a ‘great life’.
Daniel has displayed great interpersonal skills and a detailed understanding of Graeme’s support needs along with autism appropriate ways of communicating. Daniel engaged effectively and has built a high level of trust with Graeme.
Daniel was instrumental in developing Graeme’s social networks and connections to develop his artistic and musical abilities. He taught Graeme to paint, and this was so empowering for him to display his artworks so proudly.
Daniel has monitored and regularly communicated Graeme’s progress with his family. Since working together, Graeme’s quality of life has greatly improved, and he’s achieved many meaningful goals and successes. Daniel always applauds these successes which has developed Graeme’s confidence enormously.
Daniel is most definitely a highly conscientious, professional, dedicated, caring and proactive support worker who has proven, over several years of working with Graeme, to be reliable, on time, dependable, flexible, trustworthy, and most importantly, highly proficient in working with Graeme."
Watch the moment that Daniel received his award at the 2023 Good Life Awards ceremony
Having worked together for five years it's no surprise that Daniel enjoys his work with Graeme. “I like working with Graeme, he’s a good natured guy,” says Daniel. “He’s very considerate of others, really switched on, and often thinks outside the box.”
In the midst of many heartwarming tales of Hireup workers finding joy in their roles, there's a deeper question: what's it like to be acknowledged with an award for support work?
For Daniel, this recognition had a huge impact. “It’s been an absolute highlight in my career,” says Daniel. To be recognised in this way for the work you’ve done, it’s out of this world. Just to be nominated was a real blast - it just shows that Hireup really values your contribution, which makes you feel fantastic.”
Congratulations Daniel!
