Russell Holloway is 38 and registered blind. He works for Sanctuary Housing Group as an Administration Assistant.

How has your employer supported you in the workplace?
On a practical level, by helping me to familiarise myself with the building and by working with me to apply to Access to Work for technology and equipment to support me. I have a close relationship with my Line Manager and am encouraged to ask her if I have any queries or difficulties.

Do you feel you’ve made a positive contribution to this organisation?
I feel I’ve fitted in well and like to think I would be seen as a positive role model for other people with a disability who are seeking work. I am not afraid to suggest changes and hopefully bring a new perspective to the position.

What have you enjoyed most in the job so far?
The satisfaction of finding solutions to the challenges presented by the job. I see it as a learning curve, and my confidence grows as I tackle each new situation that comes my way.

Are there any disability-specific training programmes or employment programmes within the organisation?
My line manager has links with various agencies that provide assistance and information to disabled people seeking work. Sanctuary Housing Group prefers to explore what extra training an employee may require, and tailor it on an individual basis.

What would you say to other disabled people who are considering working with Sanctuary Housing Group?
Disabled people do face many challenges when seeking work, but there are many employers out there who are ready to support you in a job. The warm and friendly team here make it easy for you to settle in. I would definitely encourage others to apply for a job with my organisation.

I work as a service manager for the dedicated Care and Support team that provides a specialist care and support service for customers living in sheltered, extra care and supported housing.

Before joining Sanctuary in 1996, I completed a postgraduate diploma in Housing Management and Policy and worked as housing officer for another association.

At Sanctuary I have had the opportunity to work in a number roles including estates officer, debt recovery officer and senior care and support officer. Throughout my time with the company, I have been provided with support through training and learning opportunities.

Every day in the housing sector is different and in my current role I get to shape the services for older people and other vulnerable client groups where we can make a real difference in providing support and housing solutions.

The role is both rewarding and challenging. I get to meet a variety of professionals in the social care and health sector, local authorities, as well as other housing associations and voluntary and support organisations. The most rewarding part of the job is knowing that the services we provide really do make a difference and bring positive outcomes to people’s lives.

Claire Irwin
Service Manager – Care and Support
Sanctuary Housing Midlands