Staff and clients of Hume Employment Service from Shepparton and Benalla recognised Purple Day on Friday 25^th March, helping to create greater Epilepsy awareness.

The event, organised as part of Hume Employment Services Job Junction Program, provided an opportunity for job seekers to mix and socialise, whilst gaining an understanding of the range of employment options available at the Lavender Farm in Shepparton.

The jobseekers participated in making lavender hand cream and enjoyed some lavender scones.  Disability Employment Service Contract Manager, Ms Nicole Hawkins stated, that the event provided disadvantaged clients ‘with valuable experience in a range of jobs including catering, production, packaging and picking. Clients often underestimate the types of work available within a small business, and this program helps to break down stereotypes, as well as to provide jobseekers with a valuable social inclusion opportunity’.

Unemployment can be very isolating, and days such as ‘Purple Day’ provide clients with practical experience of the employment environment, along with an opportunity to share experience and job hunting skills with other clients.