International Day of Persons with Disabilities falls on the 3 December each year, with the aim of promoting empowerment, and helping to create real opportunities for people with disabilities.
Did you know?
One in three of the UK adult population have an impairment
Only 25% of disabled people consider themselves to be ‘disabled’
1 in 4 disabled people said they have experienced unfair treatment, bullying or harassment at work
10% of the UK has dyslexia
6% of adults in the UK have a visual impairment
6% of adults in the UK have a hearing impairment
Here is a clip created by Valuable500, they said: “Diversity: we’ve got this nailed, right? Wait a minute… Didn’t we just forget 1.3 billion disabled people?”
We would like to introduce you to Rebecca who is a Risk Management Support Technician in Water Assets. Rebecca applied to be one of our Inclusivity Ambassadors, we asked her a couple of questions to get to know her a bit more.
Why did you apply to become an ambassador?
Since joining Welsh Water, I have been diagnosed with a progressive neurological condition which has opened my eyes to the obstacles that disabled people can face in and outside of work, many that are not obvious to most.
What do you want to achieve in being an ambassador?
I want to be able to support anyone else facing similar situations, and help educate the business and colleagues to increase equal access. I already think Welsh Water is a great place to work, but there is much more we can do to ensure that everyone has equal opportunities and there no barriers stopping them from succeeding. I believe as a company we should reflect the diverse customer base we supply.
How does your condition impact you on a day to day basis?
My Ataxia primarily affects my balance and co-ordination, making walking and stairs more difficult and prone to falls. I can’t join the office tea rounds as everyone would have an empty cup by the time I got back! It’s beginning to affect my speech and can make me self-conscious speaking to new people. But I’m learning to adapt the way I do things and everyone around me is great at offering help when I need it.
