Update - Supported at new job

Tapi
Tapi Community Member Posts: 7 Listener
edited October 24 in Work

I started my new job at the beginning of June, where I officially disclosed that I have a disability, although I explained that it is an invisible disability. They were completely okay with this and asked what support or adjustments I might need. At the time, I didn't know because it was all new to me. I told them I would let them know when I was ready.

It has now been a few months, and it is incredible how supported and included I feel. There are some things I am beginning to realize could help me, and I have recently been accepted by an organization that works in partnership with the government to support people with mental health conditions in work.

I haven't named the organization because I'm not sure whether I'm allowed to. I had my initial appointment a week ago and have a couple more weeks before my first support session. I've already been given information that is helping me identify what support I might need in the workplace. I will also be starting face-to-face counselling soon.

I was in my previous job for one year and two months and left only because I was starting this new role, so I have had no gaps in employment. Considering that I was previously out of work long term and, before that, had a history of short and often difficult periods of employment, this is something I am incredibly proud of.

When I include the five months I spent volunteering at Scope, it means I have spent nearly two years doing something positive towards building my career.

My probation period ends in six months, and I am not worried about progressing. After that, my contract becomes permanent for three days a week. I am also at college one day a week, studying on a two-year course.

As I work in education, I am on half-term now, which gives me a chance to catch my breath.

This whole experience has caused me to go inward and find strengths and resources within myself. Despite the challenges, I wouldn't change a thing. I am genuinely happy.

And finally, if anyone needs support from me, please feel free to reach out x

Comments

  • Bluebell21
    Bluebell21 Community Member Posts: 6,583 Championing

    Hi @Tapi your story is inspirational and will certainly encourage others.

    Well done for finding the courage to go forward the way you have.

    It is so lovely to read of a story where things have worked out for someone and you deserve to be happy.

    Take care.

  • Rachel_Scope
    Rachel_Scope Posts: 5,417 Online Community Team

    Thank you for giving us such a wonderful update @Tapi. To see you say that you're genuinely happy is wonderful.

    What is the organisation that's helping you? You're fine to name it. It could be helpful for others 😊

    Do you mind me asking where you volunteered for Scope? Thank you so much for doing that.

  • Tapi
    Tapi Community Member Posts: 7 Listener

    Thank you for your kind replies.

    @Rachel_Scope the organization is called Maximus, and I volunteered for Scope in the Lewisham charity shop which closed.

  • Mary_Scope
    Mary_Scope Posts: 6,213 Scope Online Community Children and Family Specialists

    This was brilliant to read this morning @Tapi! It's lovely to hear that you're happy😊 Thank you for the update, do you have any plans for the half term?

  • Tapi
    Tapi Community Member Posts: 7 Listener

    @Mary_Scope I am meeting an old colleague from my previous job tomorrow.

  • Mary_Scope
    Mary_Scope Posts: 6,213 Scope Online Community Children and Family Specialists

    That sounds lovely @Tapi, what do you have planned?

  • Tapi
    Tapi Community Member Posts: 7 Listener

    It'll be coffee and window shopping. I don't get paid that much, lol.

  • Mary_Scope
    Mary_Scope Posts: 6,213 Scope Online Community Children and Family Specialists

    Sounds like a perfect afternoon out to me @Tapi! I hope you have a good time😊