1. What drew you to work with children and young people at OpenSight?
For most of my professional career, I have worked within education. Firstly, as a Modern Languages teacher in secondary schools and Head of Year then after having my own children I transferred to teaching in the Primary Sector and ended up supporting children with additional learning needs. I enjoyed each of these roles for different reasons but particularly seeing the impact of working one to one with children and being part of the journey to help overcome any barriers. When the position became available at OpenSight, it just seemed like a perfect fit for me.
2. Can you share a story where you saw the impact of OpenSight’s work on a young person’s life?
I have a very privileged job when I regularly see the impact of the work we do at OpenSight at the groups and activity days we hold. So, I’m going to talk about one of our ‘older’ young people who I first met at our Family Fun and Information Day where she had agreed to talk on a panel of inspirational young VIs- many of you may remember this! This particular young lady was so anxious that she was physically shaking but she battled through the nerves and did a remarkable job! Now fast forward 13 months and she is a regular volunteer for OpenSight and is coming to the office a couple of times a month to build on her skills to help in the work place.
3. What do you find most rewarding about working with young people who are visually impaired?
I’m always so impressed and humbled by the resilience of the young people I have the pleasure to meet. Many develop a great sense of independence and a fabulous ability to problem solve. What amazing qualities for anyone to have!
4. How do you support children and their families in building confidence and independence?
I’ve found this to be something that grows organically. My belief is that OpenSight can provide a safe, non-judgemental space for families to meet and engage with others on similar journeys. Over time confidence develops for all family members as trust and mutual respect flourishes. We provide the time and the place but our amazing families do the rest by including everyone and being there to listen to each other, whilst hopefully having some fun!
5. What’s a goal you have for OpenSight’s youth program in the coming year?
Gosh there are SO many! We already have a thriving Early Years Group in Hilsea and now I want to develop that to support the families further as they transition into primary education.
6. What role do supporters and donations play in the work you do with young people?
Our supporters are the backbone of everything we do. Without donations, OpenSight wouldn’t be able to provide these opportunities. Every contribution allows us to reach more young people and offer more specialized resources. Supporters help create a brighter future for our children, giving them and their families the confidence and skills they need to lead fulfilling lives.
Fun & Personal Questions
1. If you could instantly learn any new skill, what would it be?
Crotcheting! I’ve had 2 kits for many years and have never been able to do them and now they’re just gathering dust waiting for me to learn.
2. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Avoid regretting past decisions! You made them with the best intentions and based on the knowledge you had at the time. While hindsight might offer new perspectives, remember that you did your best in that moment and give yourself a break!
3. If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be?
My immediate response to this is telepathy! Knowing what people are really thinking could make life easier at times. Having said that, I’m not sure that I’d always want to know!
4. What’s a fun fact that people might not know about you?
My first paid work was as Father Christmas! I worked for a local florist, jumping out of their van to deliver flowers and some festive cheer.
5. Do you have a favorite hobby or activity that helps you unwind?
I’m a simple soul and just being by the sea instantly relaxes me. Add in a walk with my family and little doggie (and maybe a glass of wine) then I’m even happier!
6. What’s one place you’d love to travel to and why?
Having never been to Asia, Thailand. I’d love to experience the food, the culture, the beautiful and varied landscapes.
