Mackay mum of two finds new hope through MRAEL program

Mackay mum of two and recovering addict Amanda Simons has discovered a new lease on life through MRAEL’s Parent Pathways program.

The program is designed for parents and carers of children under six who are not in paid employment and receive a Parenting Payment, Carer Payment, or Special Benefit. A crucial part of the program is the support and guidance participants receive from mentors who guide them towards achieving their goals, ultimately breaking the cycle of disadvantage and changing lives.

For Amanda and her children, Parent Pathways has been a lifeline. She first heard about the program through the Lives Live Well Day program. Although initially working and ineligible, a change in circumstances left her needing some support. Becoming eligible for the program meant she had found a caring and uplifting community.”

“I love the fact that the women in the program are so uplifting and supportive of my journey,” Amanda said. “We’re all on our own little journeys, but these women are just so beautiful. They’re uplifting, encouraging, and really focused on helping me achieve my goal of supporting other women and mothers getting back into the workforce.”

Parent Pathways Program Coordinator Diane Mooney highlights the program’s holistic approach. “We work on a journey with our participants, helping them identify their barriers and set goals to meet their aspirations,” Diane said.

“It’s a very broad range of barriers, from domestic violence to social inclusion, anxiety, depression, and upskilling to get back into the workforce. We engage with stakeholders and work both in-house and through referrals to support our participants comprehensively.”

The program has provided Amanda with both emotional and financial support, enabling her to pursue a Certificate III in Fitness. This goal is not only crucial for her personal recovery but also for her vision of helping other women who have faced similar challenges.

“The outreach services have been incredibly beneficial. I can pick up the phone or send an email, and they respond quickly. The encouragement and support I receive are not just helping me but are also benefiting my children because a happy mother means happy children,” Amanda said.

Balancing caregiving and personal aspirations can be challenging, but the Parent Pathways program has been instrumental in addressing these challenges. “Financially, the women have provided me with extra support to do my certificate in fitness,” Amanda said.

“They are not only my mentors but also my cheer team. They are cheering me on, and their support is invaluable.”

Amanda hopes to use her experiences to help other women who have had to confront similar circumstances, “I want to help other women who are in recovery or have gone through domestic violence. Body image is a big issue for many women, and sometimes being in a gym with a male instructor can be intimidating. We need to support each other and boost each other up.”

Her advice to other parents and carers considering the program is clear: “Definitely go for it. These women are amazing to get along with. They have done nothing but support me, encourage me, and help me achieve my goals. It’s the little things that add up to the big picture, and they have been there every step of the way. It’s good to walk into a place where people don’t look down on you because of your past. They are only interested in helping you achieve your future.”

Diane Mooney adds, “I really enjoy every day coming to work, because every day is a new day. Just being able to see the satisfaction on some of our participants’ faces, the growth, and the excitement of where they’re going and what’s happening within their lives is the best thing.”

MRAEL*, in collaboration with IntoJobs*, Workforce Australia, Allied Health Partners, Registered Training Organisations, and Apprentice and Employment Services, will deliver the service across Mackay, with nine outreach locations including Bowen, Cannonvale, Clermont, Collinsville, Dysart, Moranbah, Nebo, Proserpine, and Sarina.

This will provide families in the Mackay region with access to vital support services, including career guidance, childcare support, Allied Health Services, transport assistance, clothing, financial support, domestic violence support, and additional personalised training programs to improve skills and boost job opportunities.

*MRAEL and IntoJobs are both part of the IntoWork Group.