What is your role?

I am a North West Eye Care Services Development Officer. That means I work to get people with a learning disability and/or autism better eye care treatment, and to help people understand why eye tests and wearing glasses is so important.

What is your work history?

I have worked with people who have a learning disability since 1982 (I know!) when I trained as nurse in a long stay hospital, helped close it by planning with people to move out, worked for social services planning and commissioning services and as a member of the Valuing People Team.

What inspires you?

I am always inspired by the Self Advocates I meet and have had the privilege of working with over the years.

What's your favourite thing to do outside work?

Outside of work I love playing music with friends and singing with a choir.

What's the best piece of advice you've ever been given?

The best piece of advice I was ever given was “the only thing you should put in your ear is your elbow”.

What’s one thing about you that people would be surprised to learn?

People are often surprised that I used to be a lifeguard, and that I found a choir that will let me sing.