I hope Work Forwards will help people with CF to recognise that there is a space for them

I have been working in employability information, advice and guidance for about seven years. I previously worked for a recruiter but was becoming increasingly frustrated by the lack of equality and inclusion in the job market. It ignited my own passion to help people from marginalised

communities navigate employment.

I'm the Employability Manager here at Cystic Fibrosis Trust. I'll be leading a team to deliver our new Work Forwards programme and other employment projects like the Helen Barrett Bright Ideas Awards. We’ll be offering bespoke careers guidance and support to people with CF, as well as their carers, to help everyone find success in their chosen career. As well as one-to-one mentoring, there’ll be a range of workshops on everything from preparing for an interview, to when and how to disclose your condition to an employer.

I'm hoping the Work Forwards programme will build the confidence of people in the CF community. I hope it will help people to recognise that they've got something to offer and that there is a space for them.

My top tip when it comes to employment would be to know what your red lines are. Know what you need the job to do for you and what it can’t include. For example, if you need your mornings free for physio or need a role you can do at home. I’d encourage you to think about what your needs are before you even think about what job you’d like to do.

Something people might not know about me is that I speak Italian surprisingly well – particularly given I hate the sun!

All things work: employment as a person with CF, 30 March, 7-8pm

This free event will bring together people with experience of navigating the labour market with cystic fibrosis, and people who have supported them, to share experiences and stories in a safe space. It's a chance to listen, learn, ask questions and share your own experiences. 

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