Tom Horrocks is a Club Development Coordinator in Teesside Sport, and he also has Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus.
Tom has told us about his experience of living with a long-term health condition, the challenges it presents in the workplace, and how our University is helping him succeed in his career.
Growing up with a disability I’ve faced a number of barriers and experiences that have brought me to where I am today.
My experiences of being disabled in society have shaped the way I approach my everyday activities. I remain open minded to everyone I come into contact with, try to support others through their own adversities, and welcome the experiences of others, as an opportunity for me to learn and develop.
I have experienced many barriers to employment in previous applications, interviews, and workplace environments, which perhaps were not setup up or sufficiently prepared to support my needs.
That said, since joining Teesside University in 2021, I have only experienced positivity within the team I work, and I’ve received endless support from my manager in making the workplace and environment as supportive and adaptable as possible.
At Teesside, I’m encouraged to challenge and implement new and exciting opportunities that provide me with a wider sense of achievement. I am able to contribute to our University community through sport, exercise and other aspects of student life.
I have never been discouraged from creating new ideas that will elevate the student experience.
I feel there is still a lack of awareness around disability in society, and to some degree, fear.
Awareness raising is needed, to provide a platform in every aspect of life for those with all visible and non-visible disabilities.
The more open conversations and questions we ask, the closer a community we become.
Colleagues and students shouldn’t be afraid to ask questions as that will allow friendships to be formed, and support networks constructed.
Disabled or not, supporting each other through every journey of personal life, student life and working life, should be unconditional and done with only the right intentions – namely, to bring people closer together as a community.