The moment I knew I was different: A story for the fight for inclusion

Gaining employment when you have a disability can sometimes bring with it extra challenges, and you may feel you need some extra support to find a supportive workplace. Briar, an adult with cerebral palsy, shares her experiences of working towards her dream career, the obstacles put in front of her, and how she navigated these.

Ever since I can remember, I have dreamed about my career. I had dreamed of having a career where I could help people in need. What I didn't realise is that employment for some people with cerebral palsy can be a battle. Although I had hoped to overcome this battle, there have been times as my health declined, that I've felt my dream of working was slowly slipping away. 

I have tried getting a job since I was a teenager. Although I was offered short-term employment opportunities whilst I was studying, I thought once I had my degree the world of employment would be opened to me. I had chosen a career in social work, because I felt that my life experience would help me to empathise with people in need. 

My first job as a social worker was in a teaching hospital. It was a role that set me up for life, as I got to know the health and welfare system; a world that I ended up spending more time in as a patient rather than a health professional. My desire to help people was restricted by my own health needs. I didn't want to admit this was the case, because I felt I needed to work and not be a burden on the community by accessing welfare. However, I had no choice but to apply for welfare, which was a battle in itself.  It was at that point I could see perhaps I had a social work degree for the client of one, myself. 

Throughout my social work degree, I had been encouraged to go into policy. After my 'failed' attempt as a social worker, I completed my Master's degree in policy. I struggled to find part-time employment in policy. The disability employment service that was meant to help me find a job, made it apparent that my dream of going into policy was just that, a dream. I realised that my options were limited to a part-time social work role, and I was quickly employed as a caseworker. However, once again my health overshadowed my ability to assist my clients and I had to resign. 

My hopes and dreams of forming a career were slipping away. The doctor told me to apply for the Disability Support Pension, as it was very unlikely I would be able to work. I was humiliated at the prospect of going on the pension as my determination to have a ‘normal’ life was vanishing.  Although it was a challenge to be deemed eligible for the pension, it has been my safety net as I have tried many different avenues to seek employment. My difficulty is not in getting a job, but finding employers who are willing to provide flexible employment around my medical appointments. I've tried many different avenues including starting my own business, but have often just been given short-term employment opportunities.  

In March I walked into another job interview, which I felt would go nowhere again. Instead, I was warmly welcomed into a small business, who have tailored an on-going job that allows me to use both my degrees, and work around my medical appointments.  It fills my heart with joy each time I walk into the office, as I never thought anyone would offer me such an opportunity.

Finding and maintaining employment can sometimes be difficult for everyone, including people with cerebral palsy. On the My CP Guide, we have a number of resources to help you throughout your transition from education into the workforce, including some resources from people with CP sharing their own stories. You can find these resources on our website here.

If you would like more information about the Disability Support Pension, visit the Services Australia site here.