Hello, I am really pleased to be joining the GDA as the Member Services Co-Ordinator. Since qualifying as a Registered Nurse (Learning Disabilities) in 1993, I have had a varied career working in a wide range of roles and settings with children and adults with a learning disability. This was in Manchester for 10 years and since moving to Guernsey 15 years ago. During my career, I have had the pleasure of working with individuals, families and a wide range of professionals from health and social care services, other statutory services, voluntary groups, charities etc.

My most recent role in Guernsey was as a School Nurse which unfortunately I felt I could no longer give my all to due to my own family’s needs, so I have had a break from paid employment for a period of time.

I am married with 2 boys and the youngest has Down Syndrome. His needs have come with challenges but there are also times of great joy and celebration. Through him, we have met people we would not otherwise have met and have been greatly supported by some amazing charities who are members of the GDA (Wigwam, Guernsey Down Syndrome Group, Guernsey Blind Association, Guernsey Deaf Children’s Society).

So when the job as Member Services Co-Ordinator was advertised I thought that with my professional and personal experiences I have a good understanding of barriers that people with disabilities and their families/carers are faced with and was very keen to get involved.

I have experienced huge positive changes in attitudes and services over the years for people with disabilities but am all too aware that there is still a long way to go. I am looking forward to getting to know all of the Member groups and individuals over the next couple of months and to representing you all through the fantastic work that the GDA and WAME? are doing.