A diverse workforce. Ability counts.- Diversity Festival, Chester University.

Delegate feedback..."Thanks for sharing your story". "Inspirational."

Earlier this month I was invited to speak at The Diversity Festival 2017 at Chester University. The theme of the day was "positive representations of disabled people in employment".

I demonstrated that despite having a long term condition / disability that need not stop you from seeking employment. I shared my own experience of living day to day with a rare disease and how a good support network helps you live your life and remain independent. Just over a year ago, I used my disability in a positive way to start my own business as a motivational speaker and disability coach. I believe that everyone has potential. 

I talked about the importance of organisations having a diverse workforce and that everyone has skills and potential. To not consider employing somebody with a long term medical condition or disability  could mean that you are missing out. Disabled people have strengths, are loyal, reliable, and enrich your workforce. 

I also ran 2 workshops where delegates had the opportunity to try using aids, such as a wheelchair, walking frame and walking sticks. We discussed their experiences. We also talked about real life examples of companies and services that get it right, where going that extra mile can really make a difference to both customer and employee satisfaction.   

Great to network and promote inclusion and diversity. 

A.Duckworth, Enabling Ability, March 2017