Employment Support Services

Get fully funded* support to find a job and maintain employment if you have a disability, health condition, are Deaf or hard of hearing.

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What is an employment support service?

Everyone should have the opportunity to find and maintain employment that matches their needs and skills. There are so many benefits to being employed, such as:

  • Earning regular pay
  • Gaining financial independence and stability
  • Finding a sense of purpose and feeling valued
  • Developing new skills
  • Improving your fitness and staying active
  • Creating structure and routine
  • Meeting new people

 

Explore can provide tailored employment support if you or a loved one has a disability, an injury, a physical or mental health condition, neurodiversity, or you are Deaf or hard of hearing.

Our employment specialists provide one-on-one support to identify your skills, match you with the right job, and offer ongoing coaching to ensure your long-term success.

Whether you’re searching for your first job or returning to work, we offer personalised guidance every step of the way.

What is the goal of employment support?

The goal is to help you find and maintain meaningful work that fits your lifestyle, goals and interests.

Everyone is unique and looking for something different in the world of work. That’s why our employment specialists provide tailored, step-by-step support to find:

  • full-time or part-time work
  • a role that matches your skills and strengths
  • a supportive and inclusive workplace.

How can you support me?

We can support you with:

  1. Career planning. We’ll work with you to create a personalised career plan and curriculum vitae (CV).
  2. Job search and interviews. Get help with job applications, connecting with employers, and interview preparation.
  3. Starting your new role. We’ll support you as you settle into your job, ensuring your needs are met.
  4. Maintaining employment. Ongoing check-ins and support for at least 12 months to help you succeed long-term.

Where can I access your services?

Our team provides this service in the following regions:

  • Northland
  • Auckland

How much does it cost?

Fully funded service*

If you’re eligible for a benefit from Work and Income, you’ll generally be eligible to access our services for free. Contact our team to check if you’re eligible by emailing [email protected].

 

Privately paid service

Alternatively, if you aren’t eligible for fully funded support, you can pay for our service using your own money. Talk with our team to discuss pricing and support options.

When can I start?

You can start your employment journey straight away. There are no waitlists for this service.

How do I refer myself or someone else?

Click the button below and fill in your information and our team will come back to you.

Alternatively, you can ask your case manager from Work and Income to refer you to Explore (formerly Geneva Healthcare Deaf & Disability) by sending the referral information to [email protected]. We will then assess the referral to see if we’re able to help you.

Frequently asked questions

Q: How do I know if I’m eligible for fully funded employment support services?

A: If you’re on a benefit from Work and Income, you’ll generally be eligible to access our services for free. For more information on eligibility criteria, visit Work and Income’s website, or contact our team by emailing [email protected].

Q: How long does it take to find a job that’s right for me?

A: Finding the right job for you can take time, but with the right support, skills and training, and a flexible approach, you’ll be well on your way to discovering opportunities that suit your strengths and goals.

Q: I'm unsure if I want a job

A: There are many great benefits to being employed. We can talk with you about the process and answer any questions or concerns you may have.

Q: What happens if I don’t like the job I get?

A: Finding a job that’s right for you is important. If you’ve given a job a good go, and decided that it’s not for you, we can continue to support you to find another job.

Q: Who can I contact if I have questions about your service?

A: Contact our team by emailing [email protected].