David is a really positive person. Everyone likes him. He has a great sense of humour and always sees the bright side of life. When he was 22 years old David was working as a mechanic when a terrible accident left him in a coma. After a long journey of recovery, David was eventually able to find new opportunities with House with No Steps. His very little short term memory means he can recall his past up to the age of 22 but can’t remember what happened yesterday. These are challenges that House with No Steps has been able to overcome to provide employment opportunities for David. David works at House with No Step’s business Summerland House Farm, a major tourist attraction in Northern NSW. “David loves his work in the Farm’s nursery and wouldn’t consider taking a day off, even if he had to”, says his boss Robyn. “He only works 2 days per week at the moment though his goal is to work more often.” David would find it extremely difficult to find meaningful employment elsewhere. Because of his poor memory, he needs to be reminded continually throughout the day about what task he needs to complete.
Work gives David much more than a wage. Work gives David dignity, self esteem, a sense of independence and an opportunity to meet friends and have social interaction. He is part of a community where friendship flourishes. David has a solid group of friends who genuinely care for and look out for him. “I enjoy coming to work and seeing my mates. I even don’t mind getting the bus to work in the morning with the ankle biters [school kids]”, says David with a cheeky smile on his face.