Daniel tells us about his role in improving accessibility
I’m Daniel Williams, founding director of Visualise Training and Consultancy Ltd, where our mission is to improve accessibility, inclusion and equality. I established the business in 2014 to share my personal and professional experiences and expertise with companies and organisations. I want to help them provide excellent service for customers and employees with disabilities as well as meet their legal obligations under The Equality Act 2010.
I have an eye condition called retinitis pigmentosa, which means I’m gradually losing my sight. This has given me the empathy and first-hand knowledge needed to develop and deliver services that make positive and lasting changes.
What began as a focused approach centred on sight loss has grown to encompass other disabilities, including hearing loss. Our holistic workplace assessment service enables employees to continue and develop their careers. Our range of eLearning courses helps people’s knowledge, confidence, and empathy.
What do you start with every day?
I start with a well-being walk with my guide dog Zodiac, which clears my mind and sets me up for the day both physically and mentally. I make a coffee and check in with the team to prioritise the day’s actions and deal with my emails.
What are the main challenges?
The business is fast-paced and dynamic but by using assistive technology and with the help of my team, many of whom also have a disability, we can deliver an efficient and effective service that keeps our clients at the centre of everything we do.
What do you love about what you do?
I make a difference to employees’ lives by ensuring they receive the correct workplace adjustments, which allow them to keep and develop their jobs. Having experienced the challenges associated with working without the right adjustments, it gives me a sense of pride to ensure people are receiving support as a direct result of the work we do. I am pleased to be able to use my lived experiences to help others with visual impairment or different disabilities.
How do you finish your day and prepare for the next?
In my role, listening to people’s difficulties can sometimes be mentally draining so it is important that I switch off by going to the gym, practising mindfulness, or watching TV to avoid dwelling on them as dealing with the emotions can be extremely challenging.
Find out more about making your organisation more accessible and inclusive for everyone at https://visualisetrainingandconsultancy.com
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