Family Impact Statement

The purpose of connecting with HDN was to find an organisation that could work with us to support our adult son, Bryn, to find meaningful employment that would make a significant difference to him in his life journey.

In connecting with HDN we immediately became aware of their amazing approach to support Bryn to achieve his employment outcomes. From our first meeting they showed a capacity to listen and know the individual story and needs of a person with a disability and their carer. They displayed a deep understanding of disability and its impact in relation to the workplace and home life. They showed professional knowledge and expertise with regard to the Hospitality Industry and have demonstrated the capacity to develop workplace routines that support productivity and success in the workplace for a person with disability.

For Bryn, routine work and sleep patterns are essential for his whole wellbeing and long-term participation in the workplace. With this participation his learning and productivity grows: without it the opposite occurs. HDN has spent time with Bryn to understand the type of work and routine that will enable him over the long-term to independently manage his participation in a workplace which brings him personal satisfaction and a regular income. 

The impact of this for Bryn is that it has brought him personal dignity, respect, a pathway towards financial security, collegiality and a framework on which we see him now building personal goals and plans. So much of our participation in society is predicted on having a working life and the income and stories that flow from it. The work of HDN has supported Bryn to have this. Employment in work which makes use of Bryn’s abilities and adapts to manage areas of his disability has seen him growing in confidence, purpose, self-esteem and independent life skills. This flows into the positive interactions with family, friends and community

The impact of the values of HDN are seen in their open communication. HDN encourages Bryn to be involved in every step of his employment. They listen to his ideas and goals, working to see his journey from his perspective, always providing an honest, fair response. Bryn is now taking steps to independently communicate with HDN about his work. A significant outcome for Bryn for whom communication is a major part of his disability. 

The impact for myself as a parent is the mental and physical release that comes from my son now ‘enabled’ by an informed and well-supported work placement: an outcome of HDN’s work. The inclusive and respectful approach from HDN allows me to be involved and connected with Bryn’s employment journey without feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. I am better able to maintain my health, work and social wellbeing and have a little more time to be mother, wife and friend. HDN has made a difference.

Aly & Bryn Matthews.