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I am a senior academic working at a world renowned university. I am registered blind. I previously worked in the NHS and the voluntary sector before coming here. I now lecture and supervise mainly PG students. I have been well supported by my employer and by Access to Work. I have a support worker too. Without these mechanisms in place I could have not done my job, carried out research or presented papers at Conferences internationally.

I think it is important that one presents one’s limitations in a positive way rather than as something the employer feels ‘obliged’ to comply with, so both they and I gain from that experience and support. Since I came to the University I have participated in the development of a Disabled Staff Network and the Disability Support Service. This has become a recognisable force within the University in both campaigning for better access to buildings and the handling of applications for support (now done as part of the University’s excellent Disability Support Service that works with and for both students and staff).

I used to find it hard to ask for assistance, especially when working in the NHS, but in the part of the University I work in this is not an issue and, in that sense, I feel that they have given me an identity I can be proud of.

Submitted by: Dr Gill Parkinson


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