What do close-fought chess matches, conversations about the news, and yard work have in common? That’s right, they’re all activities that Hireup support worker Pete and client Rafferty have shared and enjoyed.
Peter has worked as a Hireup support worker for more than five years, and thinks it's one of the best jobs in the world. “Rafferty and I have become good mates,” says Pete. “Our conversations are open and real - we enjoy discussing the news, playing lots of chess, and have a healthy back and forth sharing our opinions and experiences.”
Rafferty’s support with Peter primarily focuses on social skills, confidence building and working together outdoors. “Peter has supported Rafferty in many life changing ways,” says Rafferty’s mother Kari. “Rafferty has never liked the outdoors or yard work, but thanks to Pete’s positive reinforcement and jolly attitude - Rafferty is now helping his grandmother build and maintain her garden.”
Kari felt so strongly about Pete’s impact that she nominated him for a Good Life Award. “To see my son contributing to the household in such a positive way as well as overcoming his dislike for the outdoors is something I thought I'd never see,” says Kari.
“By improving his confidence, Peter has assisted Rafferty to attempt all sorts of new things. Peter injects joy in whatever task he engages in, and that sort of attitude is worth bottling.”
Peter was taken aback when he learnt that he’d been nominated for a Good Life Award. “I was shocked and very grateful when I received the nomination,” says Peter. “A thank you over a cuppa is one thing but a written nomination takes time and more thought. For Kari and Raff to do this was a real delight.”
Peter was even more surprised when he found out that he’d actually won!
As Peter was unable to make the award ceremony - we called him to pass on the great news. This was his reaction:
When asked how he felt to be a Good Life Award winner, Peter’s response couldn’t have been more reflective of Kari’s praises:
“When I was told that I’d won, I couldn’t believe it, " says Peter.
“Mostly I thought, I bet somebody else deserved it more. I do my job and I am paid for it. I certainly try to do it as well as I am able, and be a genuine asset for my clients. I feel glad when I see my clients succeed - but I never pat myself on the back or think ‘wow, what a great support I am’. I am employed to be a support and I should be good at it!” he explained.
“For someone to go to the effort of nominating me and then winning a major award, it’s a bit overwhelming but certainly brings a great sense of ‘wow you really see me like that’, and joy.”
Congratulations Peter!
