Overcoming Barriers
Whether we love or hate our jobs, most of us
take it for granted that we can get into work and carry out our
day-to-day duties without any major obstacles standing in our
way.
However, that isn't the case for everyone, and
Sheryl, who is one of our social workers based in Penarth, is an
example to all for the way she has overcome several barriers to
carry out her work.
Sheryl has a number of physical impairments
including diabetes, arthritis, asthma, spondylitus, and lymphedema.
When she was diagnosed whilst working as a student with the
council, Sheryl was not sure if she could carry on her training,
let alone go on to secure a job in her chosen career as a social
worker.
Although she could get around okay most days,
albeit with some difficulty, some days she found that she could not
walk. She also had trouble carrying things and reading small print.
Seemingly straightforward tasks proved difficult if not impossible,
but Sheryl persevered and excelled so much that the mental health
team had no hesitation in appointing her on merit when a post
became available in November.
Sheryl is extremely grateful for the support
her colleagues have given her and the way that her manager and both
our occupational health and health and safety teams have involved
her every step of the way in making sure that she receives the
adaptations she needs to carry out her role. These were agreed upon
following an independent assessment carried out on behalf of
Jobcentre Plus ‘Access to Work’, who funded the majority of the
costs involved. These adaptations have included a modified PC and
work station, a mobility scooter for when Sheryl visits clients in
hospital, a hoist to get her scooter in and out of her car, a
portable magnifier that can record images for later use, a large
screen mobile phone and other necessary items that allow Sheryl to
carry out her day-to-day activities. Small things have proved
important too, such as the trolley that enables Sheryl to take her
turn making a cuppa for her colleagues, and the designated parking
space that allows her to park her car close to the office.
With all the assistance that she has been
given, Sheryl is keen to give back as much as she can. Where
possible she arranges her personal medical appointments for when
she is not in work because she wants to spend as much time as she
can helping her clients and the rest of the team.
Sheryl said: "I have been fortunate enough to
have a supportive manager and team, who have helped me every step
of the way. The emotional support that they have given me has been
as helpful as the material items that I have been given to assist
with the physical aspect of my work."