A North Tyneside -based health care worker left with lasting damage following brain surgery, is now helping businesses understand the intricacies of working with staff with disabilities.
In 2016 John McDonald was diagnosed with bowel cancer and hydrocephalus (fluid on the brain) and had to undergo brain surgery. His condition severely affected his ability to work due to fatigue, memory issues and problems with his balance.
But the Tynemouth businessman who has worked in the healthcare sector for more than two decades - including as a Covid-19 vaccine centre volunteer and as a practice lead for a mental health needs charity - has through grit and determination put coping mechanisms in place to minimise the effects of his ongoing symptoms.
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Now thanks to his coping strategies, John has launched his own disability specialist business. Eagle’s Wings Consultancy has been created to help organisations communicate with and understand people with disabilities, particularly those with hidden conditions, such as brain injury and neuro disorders, like Parkinson's disease, epilepsy and motor neurone disease.
John said: "Often organisations have processes in place to help staff with a disability, but they are often focused on more physical aspects of disability. I am helping where disability is more hidden, like my own brain injury, neurological conditions, or mental health issues.
"I tend to help where the adaptations to a business are more a change in working practice than the physical environment."
John’s expertise includes reviewing disability policies, processes, and procedures, training in disability awareness and helping employers promote a diverse and inclusive workplace and workforce.
He added: “Sometimes all that people need is the opportunity to talk about their feelings or discuss how an employer can help them adapt the workplace for their disability. I’ve found that my 'tea and talk' sessions have helped create understanding and a connection between employers and employees and sometimes something informal like that can make a massive difference leading to increased morale and productivity.”
