My name is Dhiren Patel I am 34 years old I am a person living with intellectual disability. I live at home with my Mum and Dad. I have always wanted to study computers and computer related courses and also have an interest in computer gaming. After finishing year 12 the school found me a job at Activ foundation as I didn’t have skills to get an IT Job. This is when Autism association approached me and helped to enrol at Tafe and university. I also have been looking forward to working in the IT sector as that’s where my passion is. In 2015 to 2018, I went to Tafe to study information technology networking at North Metropolitan Tafe in Perth. In 2018, I went to the university to study cyber security at Edith cowan university in Perth. This was to learn more about the IT industry and to do something that I was passionate about and something that I liked. I will be finishing my degree at the end of this year and graduate at the beginning of 2023. I have been able to learn and interact with people from different cultural background, learn to work in a team environment and meeting deadlines. During this time and even before enrolling at the university, I have been working at Activ foundation for the past 16 years where in my view I gained zero skills in computers but gained skills in packaging and didn’t get to learn much computer related skills which relates to my studies at university. The job at Activ foundation was good, I learnt much skills in doing the packaging but they wont be helpful in a different job as I did not use my intellectual ability, I did not grow as a person and career. It was hard getting a job which relates to my studies Cyber Security as I did not have the right skills. I felt that I could do better with the support I was getting. This is when we approached the NDIS through Beth Boorer the local area coordinator for NDIS to help look for another support provider as the previous organisation, I was with at the Autism association didn't help much in finding a job. I was with Autism association for about 10 years, and nothing was happening in finding a new job. With the help of Beth, we were able to find Exceptional disability services. In less than 2 months, Kim my support provider has been able to help with job applications. We have been applying jobs week in week out. I was invited for interviews by Centre for accessibility, Water cooperation, deloitte and touche and many others which were unsuccessful. My interview at the centre for accessibility was successful and I have started a new role as a junior digital accessibility analyst, creating and testing out websites for low vision impaired users. I started on 10/08/22. For the first time, I am doing a job that I like, and I know I will grow as a person and in my career. My future goal is to work for BHP. Special Thanks to Beth Boorer NDIS: Helped me by supporting and trying each day to look for support provider/ support worker to help look for a new job as she said that Activ is not a good fit for me as I was smart and clever and had some skills to work in an open employment so then decided to look for a support provider/support worker to help me get a job in an IT industry. Kim of Exceptional disability services: Has helped by applying for different jobs and applying each week for jobs relating to my studies, helping me build a resume, a cover letter and LinkedIn profile and also helping me prepare for interviews and what to expect during an interview. He made me believe in myself, helped me believe in my abilities and to think positively.

In 2023, I was approached by Michael Hay, who suggested that I try Exceptional Disability Services. Initially, I was skeptical when I first met Kim, but I had good first impressions. As someone with Autism, I am always cautious. However, when I began accepting help from their support workers, things progressively improved. I used to be constantly negative and angry due to the PTSD I had experienced. This made it hard for me to accept help because I was afraid of what might happen. Over time, I began to understand my situation better, even doing my own research to find the right help. It all started with the support workers and their mentorship, which I lacked growing up in school. I always asked them how they overcame their hardships and how I could apply that knowledge to my life. I felt alone and believed that no one had faced the hardships I did. With their help, I started going to physio to take care of my body, and I began going to the gym, although motivation is still a struggle. I started taking my medication for mental health, and I began sleeping early. These are all achievements I made with the guidance of my support workers. My goal for 2024 is to craft a better version of myself. I plan to take my support workers' advice and join a fitness class to make new friends and focus on my fitness. I also want to improve my independent skills, such as cooking and focusing on my diet. Additionally, I am seeking help from therapists to assist with my focus issues, with my support workers helping me attend appointments. I want to thank Michael Hay from NDIS for recommending a good support provider with great flexibility. Special thanks to Kim for providing the best support workers and ensuring I am doing well. For anyone reading this testimonial, I highly recommend Exceptional Disability Services as they truly care about their support workers and clients.

Exceptional Disability Services has been working with my son for a while now. During this time, they have helped him achieve significant goals such as building confidence, gaining employment, and working towards obtaining his driver's license with assistance from an occupational therapist. Kim and his team have shown a caring and understanding nature, consistently keeping in contact and providing great support. I am very thankful for Kim and his dedication to this line of work. I definitely recommend Exceptional Disability Services.

Comment: A Heartfelt Testimonial for Exceptional Disability Services I am delighted to share my overwhelmingly positive experience with Exceptional Disability Services and their outstanding care support worker, Irene. From the moment Irene became a part of my support team, my daily life has been transformed in the most remarkable way. Irene's dedication to her work is truly exceptional. She goes above and beyond to ensure that my home is not just a place of residence, but a haven of comfort and order. Her attention to detail in cooking, cleaning, and shopping is unparalleled, reflecting a level of commitment that goes beyond mere job requirements. Irene doesn't just assist with tasks, she approaches every aspect of her work with genuine warmth, empathy, and a profound understanding of the unique needs of those she supports. In the kitchen, Irene's culinary skills have turned mealtime into a delightful experience. Her ability to create delicious and nutritious meals tailored to my dietary requirements has made a significant impact on my overall well-being. The effort she puts into understanding my preferences and incorporating them into her cooking is truly commendable. Irene's dedication to maintaining a clean and organized living space is nothing short of impressive. Her meticulous attention to detail ensures that my home is not only aesthetically pleasing but also a place where I can relax and focus on what matters most to me. Her conscientious approach to cleaning reflects a genuine commitment to creating a positive and comfortable environment. Moreover, Irene's assistance with shopping has been a game-changer. Her efficiency and thoughtful consideration of my preferences have made the often challenging task of grocery shopping a breeze. She navigates through the aisles with ease, ensuring that I have access to the products and ingredients I need to maintain a healthy and enjoyable lifestyle. Exceptional Disability Services has truly lived up to its name through the exceptional care and support provided by Irene. I am grateful for the positive impact she has had on my life, and I wholeheartedly recommend Exceptional Disability Services to anyone seeking compassionate and dedicated support. Irene's professionalism, kindness, and unwavering commitment to her work make her an invaluable asset to this remarkable company. Thank you, Exceptional Disability Services, for making a difference in the lives of those who rely on your exceptional care. Sincerely, Douglas

The team at Exceptional Disability Services has been amazing in supporting my partner who has young onset dementia and myself as his carer. They walked alongside and supported both of us during some very challenging times, always with compassion and open heartedness. They espouse their motto of 'going the extra mile' and I will always be grateful for everything they did. They are truly committed to the people they are supporting