Gold Coast Health commits to offering more jobs to disabled, returned veterans and unemployed

The Gold Coast’s hospitals are helping locals in more ways than one, now training flexible roles to employees of all different backgrounds and abilities.

THE Gold Coast’s hospitals are helping locals in more ways than one, now training flexible roles to employees of all different backgrounds and abilities.

Gold Coast Health has committed to increasing the number of employees living with a disability, returned veterans or those who have been out of work for an extended period of time.

The program first launched last year opened up two full time equivalent jobs in the environmental services team, which have helped train up to six people in the behind-the-scenes work at the hospital.

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Gold Coast Health Employees Lisa Hanson, John Beecher and Tina Northover at The Gold Coast Hospital. Photograph: Jason O'Brien

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Instead of subcontracting the cleaning of the hospital’s 3500 mops the hospital moved work in-house, both saving money and creating new roles.

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For heart surgery survivor Lisa Hanson the new opportunities provided by the hospital had been a literal life saver.

Now promoted to a health auditor Ms Hanson said she is enjoying the benefits of a permanent job for the first time in her life.

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Gold Coast Health Employees Lisa Hanson, John Beecher and Tina Northover at The Gold Coast Hospital. Photograph: Jason O'Brien

“I am so blessed,” she told the Bulletin.

“Two years ago I was sitting in my bed recovering from major heart surgery.”

“I started off three days a week and worked up to it, and was then encouraged to keep applying of other roles.

“I really didn't think I would ever work again.

“Every day I wake up thankful.”

Nigel Hoy Senior Director of non medical services at Gold Coast health said the change in direction was part of a long-term strategy of plan for the hospital.

“It is about breaking down traditional work and actively branching out our employment opportunities,” Mr Hoy said.

“We work through health work and safety and occupational therapists for every person to ensure we can accommodate them.

“Everyone has their own personal stories where they know people with disabilities or in need of work, this is something we are passionate about.

“A more understanding staff ultimately leads to better health care.”