Hi, I’m Julie Bevan, I am a Senior OT working at the Northern General Hospital in Sheffield. My career began in 1991 when, as a mature student, I started the OT course at Sheffield Hallam University. I qualified in 1994 and worked initially full time and then part-time after maternity leave.
I have a ‘hidden disability’ which I don’t usually advertise - just keep taking the pills! – something I thought I had left behind in my childhood, but which reared its ugly head again later in life. I joined the Forum in 2006 after an acute episode of illness which became an unnecessarily distressing event, and I quickly discovered that mine was not an isolated experience! I feel the Forum is an important resource for the members of our profession as well students, associates and other interested parties. Our own knowledge and experiences can raise awareness, educate, provide support, advice and combat negative attitudes.
I was lucky enough to attend the UNISON Disabled Members Conference in October 2007. This has inspired me both personally and professionally -the interesting and stimulating discussions; the organisation; the facilities on offer and mostly the delegates who repeatedly demonstrated that a disability is not a barrier.
I feel that my disability gives me a unique insight into some aspects of my job which may not be immediately obvious to others. I have never allowed it to stop me doing anything in my life and I hope this ethos is reflected in my work.
