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Funded by the Department of Education, Reconnect provides individual support to plan a return to education, assisting program participants to obtain the skills needed to pursue meaningful employment in future, in their chosen career.
Reconnect Case Workers conduct a holistic assessment of individual circumstances, discuss goals and aspirations, provide career advice and guidance, as well as assist with all aspects of enrolment into accredited training.
The Reconnect program provides participants with:
- Individual support to plan career pathways, with face-to-face meetings conducted close to home
- An exploration of the challenges associated with a return to study and access to the support needed to get back into the classroom
- Referral to external services, such as health care, financial or legal services
- Assistance to navigate course options, training providers, and all stages of course enrolment
- Financial assistance, to assist with training-related expenses
- Once enrolled in training, guidance and support to remain engaged in education
Those involved in the program must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Aged between 17 to 64 years at the time of registration for the program
- Not currently engaged in education or training
- Not completed Year 12 or equivalent (i.e. Certificate II or above)
- For those aged 17-19 – Employed casually, part-time or unemployed
- For those aged 20-64 – Long-term unemployed (i.e. 12 months or more without employment)
- Reside in or have a connection to Darebin, Whittlesea, Banyule or Nillumbik
- Be an Australian citizen or Permanent Resident
CASE STUDY
Amanda*, aged 22, was referred to Reconnect by her local Council youth service. She had been unemployed for two years, and had not undertaken any training since leaving school in Year 11. Amanda struggled with anxiety and depression for twelve months, but felt that returning to education would be a move in the right direction for her. In exploring her goals, Amanda discussed an interest in hospitality and tourism, and hoped to find employment in a bar or restaurant. Her Reconnect Case Worker explored options around this, with Amanda deciding to undertake a Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways, which included specialist barista training, Responsible Service of Alcohol certificate and a work experience component at a local café. Through this time, Amanda continued to meet regularly with her Case Worker, who also linked her in with a housing service when her living arrangements became unstable. Amanda applied for work at a café soon after her course ended, and was successful in gaining casual employment. In the months since exiting Reconnect, Amanda went on to obtain employment in a hotel, where she continues to work whilst also undertaking further training around business management.
*name changed