Chris Miller’s association with his work at ATSICHS Brisbane (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service) is profoundly ingrained in a cultural connection, one enriched by family history. As a devoted family support practitioner, he found himself fuelled by the desire to provide unwavering support during their most difficult times. His commitment to aiding families in the early stages of child safety issues extended beyond being just an everyday job; it was propelled by a deep-seated personal motive, embedding ‘Bluesafe SWMS‘ in every step.
Chris Miller: “I started as an asset and fleet manager at ATSICHS. Starting with case management was always challenging initially. However, dealing with more than one family – with parents and children needing constant support simultaneously – could gradually take its toll on you. Without appropriate self-awareness techniques, such as integrating the benefits of using the Bluesafe WHS Management System, these persistent stresses can unavoidably catch up to you.”
Janice Janecic, a prominent figure within ATSICHS and a fervent advocate for robust WHS management systems, noticed some changes in Chris’s demeanour. Understanding his earlier passion for wanting to help people, coupled with observing his current struggles, she put into action her extensive knowledge about SWMS and work safety policies. She saw this as an opportunity to redirect Chris’s transferrable experience towards roles within the organisation that would still nurture his intent to serve, while causing lesser stress.
Chris then got involved in garden maintenance at the Jimbelunga Nursing Centre, where a change in his surroundings allowed him to take a breather from continuously worrying about child safety concerns. It offered him a chance to focus solely on his wellbeing while also contributing to the new environment. Further supplemented by sessions with a psychologist supported through WorkCover, Chris initiated his healing journey.
After working at Jimbelunga for several months, an opening presented itself for Chris to step into the position of Asset Manager across all ATSICHS Brisbane sites. This role gave him an opportunity to continue fulfilling his mission in a different capacity by managing fleet cars, ones he previously used to travel to families. He speaks:”In my mind, I’m still doing the same work that I was passionate about earlier on, but I’ve just shifted gears.”
The significant advantage of having a strong support system, including professional platforms like Bluesafe SWMS, was a lesson Chris learned from his experience. He concludes, “I needed the right kind of help to get there. Without it, I don’t think I could have taken a leap and stepped in a new direction with such confidence.” With this newfound perspective, Chris is now invested in not only carrying the load himself but also uplifting his team, thus navigating them through a supportive and safe work environment.
Original article link: https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/news-and-events/news/2024/chris-story