Avril's story

Avril has been working in nursing for ten years and is currently studying to become a nurse whilst also working as an healthcare support worker. Being of short stature, her roles in the hospital have been hindered not only by the physical environment but also by the attitudes of some colleagues. 

Key points:

• Simple reasonable adjustments like lowering facilities and providing a ladder help Avril practically.
• Speaking to colleagues and giving them opportunities to prove their suitability for nursing work helps lessen attitudinal barriers.
• Avril is now a role model for colleagues and patients who have seen her career journey.
• The peer support service is another way to give and receive support from nursing staff with disabilities.