I am passionate about Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and amplifying people’s voices. I have a keen interest in supporting individuals to achieve their full potential, to develop learning and knowledge and to progress in their careers. During my time at CQC, I have held a variety of positions including Registration Inspector, Quality Improvement Advisor and for six years, I was Chair of the Disability Equality Network. Prior to CQC, I was a qualified teacher for 25 years, where I was involved in cross-sector education, including training in Deaf Studies, Health and Social Care, Council Care Certificate qualifications, Safeguarding, Mental Capacity Act (MCA), Manual handling and First Aid. I managed a community team for Deaf Children and Adult Services in the South of England, which covered a wide variety of complex multi-disability needs. I was Dorset Police Link Officer for the Deaf and Deaf Blind (PLOD), delivering training to students, operational and fire-arms officers and special branch, CID and major crime units. I was also Chair of the Independent Advisory Group (IAG) for Dorset Police/Fire/NHS. I was honoured to be awarded British Empire Medal 2023 by the king for my services Health and Social care.