New to the forums. Need ideas or help getting back on track.

[pspd4976]

Hi guys,

Might as well get this out of the way. I was recently convicted of theft. I to this day deny the charges, but in the end I was convicted. I’m not here to talk about my guilt or innocence. I’m just here to ask for help about my best step.

Before and after the case I’ve been dealing with depression and since the case, due to the media coverage, yes media coverage, of the case I’ve developed extreme anxiety and almost some level of PTSD. I’m receiving treatments and I honestly feel like I’ve improved. I’m less house bound these days and the suicidal thoughts/attempts are no more.

I Want to return to the ‘real world’ be it some form of training, especially work. I’d like to start earning money again. I guess the advice I am asking for is if anyone knows of a support group or agency that helps a person like me with a non violent/sexual conviction to there name? Has anyone reading this had similar issues? What did you do to get back on track? I come form a hospitality and sales background. I love working with and for people. I am a rare person who still loves customers, lol.

I am currently living in rural QLD and looking to move to Brisbane ASAP, as sadly there are not much in the way of employment, regardless of my situation. Any ideas or suggestions would be amazing.

Thank you for letting me sharing my rambling intro

[smallwolf]

Hi,

Welcome to beyond blue. Really just tagging your post at the moment as I have to go out in a minute. Have you tried doing a Google search for

Job for person with criminal record in Australia

A long time ago (ish) someone known to my family was convicted, did time and then got a job in a large hardware store so it is possible.

Regardless I can chat and listen to you.

Tim

[romantic_thi3f]

Hi pspd4976,

Welcome to the forums and thanks for your post. A big kudos to you for wanting to look for work after all that you've had to go through. I'm sorry that you had to go through all of that.

I'm thinking a lot about your post and here's some ideas that I came up with

- Be open to any sorts of positions. If an employer sees a criminal record, they'll be automatically wary about trust, but showing that you are committed to the role will go in your favour. Would you be open to doing behind the scenes work (i.e. packing shelves) just so you can get your foot in the door? Of course not every position will need a criminal record check but I think it would be helpful to be mindful anyway.

- Prepare as much as you can for difficult conversations.

- When looking for positions, try walk-ins. A lot of businesses will be looking for someone but won't have the finances to advertise on a place like Seek and they generally want someone with an immediate start.

- Resume drop offs. Not everyone likes to do this, but it's one way of getting the managers attention and letting them know that you're ready and available. You could also try to do this for the little businesses as well, as they'll have less foot traffic.

- Google yourself. You may be able to get some articles taken down, or even write enough things to get to the top of the Google search - or even shorten/lengthen your name.

- You could try and connect with local disability/mental health agencies. The ratio of staff to clients is lower and they are mindful that everyone comes from different backgrounds so more likely to try and be accommodating.

- Some potential study? RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) will be a bonus to your resume. You could also look at doing a free MOOC (Massive Online Open Course) on something that interests you. Maybe that could be cultural communication or hospitality management for example.

I hope that this helps a little! I truly wish you the best of luck in finding something that's a good fit for you.

RT

[pspd4976]

Thanks guys you’ve all given my food for thought. Does anyone know of an agency where to can go to and they sorta help you fashion a job plan based around your circumstances? For example I’d love to get into temp work that as very little fuss, and mucking around. In a dream scenario I’d love to be able to chat or something who goes ‘yep mate. Speak to these guys they help people in your situation all the time’. Someone who promotes second chances?

[geoff]

Hello Pspd, thanks for posting your comment on the forums because there is no discrimination and we hope you feel accepted by us.

A criminal record does not stop you from working with anybody or stop you from reaching your career goals as I've employed someone with a record in the hotel industry, I was sure he could be trusted, and that's what happened, plus he was an excellent employee as he worked as expected.

He had no experience but was keen to learn the bar trade, this was in the country.

Best wishes.

Geoff.