After approaching the disability employment service in May, Mr Gaskin, 28, was introduced to Blue Breeze Cleaning Service owner Peter Zychowski who offered him a job.

He is now responsible for the cleaning and maintenance of two childcare centres.

The manager of NOVA Employment at Rouse Hill, Bernie Davey, said Mr Gaskin had ``grown three feet'' as a result of the new skills he has learnt.

``When he first came to us I don't think he would have seen himself as capable. This is what it's all about: getting these people into the community and having people recognise what they can do.''

Mr Davey said the Rouse Hill office is one of eight to open in NSW since the federal government's changes to employment services provision in March.

The not-for-profit organisation is funded by the Department of Employment, Education and Workplace Relations to help people with a disability find employment.

``We're not talking about supported employment, we're talking about getting people jobs at award wages, the same as everybody else,'' Mr Davey said.

Mr Gaskin said he originally heard through different people how the employment agency could help him get back to work.

``I came in and told them what sort of job I was looking for, hoping to get, my credentials what I've done in the past,'' he said.

``Then Peter came in and said he had a different sort of a job, but I was willing to learn a different sort of a job I felt like any job would be fulfilling.

``I'd been off work for a few years so it was good to get an income coming in, and he's a great boss.''

Rouse Hill resident Peter Zychowski first heard about NOVA on the radio and said a Google search led him to the office.

``In the case of NOVA I think there are people sitting and waiting to be recognised and they have abilities. That needs to be recognised and implemented in the environment,'' Mr Zychowski said.

``I treat it as a hidden treasure kind of thing people like Les who I'm very happy with his work and his communication.

``He went through two weeks intensive training on site, now he is working on his own. I'm really happy with the job he does and I'm looking simply for more people like him to employ.''

NOVA Rouse Hill will hold an open day on Tuesday, September 14, at Suite 105, Level 1, The Cutaway, Rouse Hill Town Centre, 10am 3pm. Details: 88145076.