A former BBC Yorkshire journalist turned PR and communications manager for the NHS from Leeds. With a passion for disability sport and equality I have brought my life experience of being a wheelchair user into my working life to raise awareness of diversity in the workplace and equal access to health care.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic I led on the vaccine research recruitment in the West Yorkshire area, which led to a UK record number of volunteers signing up to take part. Through this work I was able to raise the profile of how important it is for people with disabilities to take part in clinical trials to make sure vaccines work for them. I also championed access requirements through the vaccination centre tendering process to choose suitable venues for people with access requirements.

Now having moved into a communications role within NHS England and NHS Improvement, I have recently been appointed as co-chair for the Disability and Wellness Staff Network (DAWN). In this role I am the DAWN champion within the NHS and help set up local DAWN groups within NHS Trusts to make the NHS the best employer for people with disabilities.

Outside of the workplace, I am the head coach of the Leeds Rhinos wheelchair sports club and prior to the pandemic led the wheelchair rugby league team to challenge cup final wins and grand final appearance. I am also a former international wheelchair rugby league player.