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It takes all abilities to deliver exceptional patient experience at Gosford Private Hospital

Meet one of our catering services staff who is making a meaningful contribution to the team.

For 60-year-old Kincumber local Cheryle, finding a place of employment that worked with her disability rather than against it was a challenge until recently.

Cheryle who joined Gosford Private Hospital as a General Service Officer in late 2020 said she was enjoying how inclusive the hospital was in working with staff with various abilities.

“I was left with a disability following a severe car accident six years ago and while I had more than 15 years’ experience working within a range of hospital, hospitality and pharmacy settings, I suddenly found myself really struggling to find work,” Cheryle said.

“It’s not easy for anyone to reach out for support, but I was really noticing that my disability and specific needs when it comes to workplace duties was playing a role in me not being offered interviews or jobs.

“So I reached out to Jobs Centre Australia to gain support and see if they could assist with linking me up with employers which are inclusive and have structures in place to employ and support staff with varying abilities.

“I wish I had done it sooner, because before long I found the role at Gosford Private Hospital and I haven’t looked back since.”

Gosford Private Hospital has an ongoing local employment disability employment partnership with Jobs Centre Australia and according to Gosford Private Hospital’s Hospitality Services Manager Sally Gibbons said every member of her team contributes in their own way regardless of disability.

“Just because someone has a certain limitations in their abilities, doesn’t mean they can’t make a meaningful and important contribution as part of our hard working team,” Ms Gibbons said.

“We are committed to working with local services and providers in order to ensure we have an inclusive, supportive and welcoming workplace where everyone feels part of the team and ultimately where everyone is encouraged to play their part in delivering best practice and the best possible experience for our patients.”