-
Jodie was initially housebound with severe social anxiety and only able to attend remote appointments, but gradually built the confidence to attend in person with Castle’s support.
-
She completed training, gained key documents, and tried short-term work before securing a job with Ventia.
-
Jodie now works in school cleaning, drives again, shops independently, and enjoys visiting her new grandson — describing herself as “a new woman.”
Today, 63-year-old Jodie from Belmont says she feels like a new woman. She’s driving her own car again, visiting her grandson regularly, shopping independently, and working part-time with Ventia, providing cleaning services at local schools.
“I feel alive again. I enjoy going to work and I love my job. I thought I’d hardly see my grandson because of my phobia, but now I can drive myself to visit him. Having a car and a job has given me so much freedom to do the things I once loved again.”
- Jodie
Only a year earlier, Jodie’s life looked very different. Living with crippling social anxiety, she rarely left her house and had no confidence. When she joined Castle in September 2023, her only goal was to find a job she could do from home.
At first, Jodie connected with Castle remotely, or with the support of a friend. But with patience and understanding from her Case Officer, Ashlee, and encouragement from her doctor, she gradually started venturing out more. Attending her son’s baby shower was a major milestone, and the motivation of becoming a grandmother gave her even more reason to work on overcoming her anxiety.
Ashlee recalls those early days:
“When I first met Jodie she wouldn’t leave the house due to her social anxiety. We started small, just building trust. Over time, she was able to come in for appointments, and from there we worked step by step until she was ready for work.”
- Ashlee, Employment Case Officer
Jodie’s progress was remarkable. She built her confidence through a computer course and regular appointments, and with Ashlee’s support, she completed practical steps like obtaining her Working With Children Check and birth certificate. Casual work with the Electoral Commission followed, before Jodie secured her role with Ventia in June.
“100% my confidence has increased. I used to never go out alone, I would never have set foot in a shopping centre, and I was too scared to drive. Now I can do all of those things. I have my independence back.”
For Jodie, the impact of work goes well beyond a job. It’s given her freedom, self-belief, and connection with her family. And she’s keen to encourage others who may be in the position she once was:
“Go see Ashlee at Castle! It can be scary, but it is worth it. You’ll feel secure and supported every step of the way."
Jodie’s journey shows that it’s never too late to make a change. With the right support, barriers can be overcome and new opportunities embraced.
If you're facing barriers to employment, Castle is here to support you step by step - just like we did with Jodie. Learn about how we can help you reach your goals today.