This Thursday, 20th November marks the start of Disability History month which runs until Saturday, 20th December. This month is an opportunity to raise awareness, challenge stereotypes, and promote inclusion across our workplace and society.

We've been speaking to Assistant Director of Finance, Jo Hardcastle, who has kindly shared her story:

"I have worked for CHFT for 37 years in a number of roles and unless you knew me, you would never know I was partially sighted due to a rare condition called Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome.

"I was born with no sight, but as a baby and toddler I received special contact lenses to help me develop my eyes and with light sensitivity and muscle control. From this, I was able to reach a level of sight which allowed me to see - but even with aids such as lenses or glasses I would never reach a standard level. I grew up knowing this would impact my life - for example, I would never be able to drive or take up my dream career in forensic science.

"I was always encouraged to make my disability known and be clear what I need to do to be able to manage certain tasks. For example, at work I cannot see the big screens we use in meeting rooms. Colleagues therefore send me the files to look at on my larger laptop screen to ensure I can participate.

"They say you develop other senses. I can listen and write down as opposed to copying off a board if the person talks through what they are writing or explaining. Ultimately my disability to me is not a disability but just a unique selling point to Jo Hardcastle and I would encourage anyone to have the confidence to say I need help if you do and not be afraid.

"Colleagues can become more disability aware by listening if someone asks for help or describes what their disability may be. As we know not all disabilities are visible and so don’t assume."

For more information or support regarding disabilities or supporting colleagues with disabilities, please see the Disability Network's intranet page.

Thank you to Jo for sharing her story.