Today is the International Day of People with Disability, celebrated on December 3 each year to promote public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability. 

In recognition of the day, we caught up with Disability Liaison Officer, Sharni Quinn to find out how she ended up at the RCH, what the year 2020 taught here, and why she loves her work.

What is your current role at the RCH?
I am a Senior Disability Liaison Officer and I started only two weeks ago. My role is for six months and covers the RCH, the Women’s and Peter Mac, and has been established to identify and address barriers people with disability experience in accessing health services, including access to COVID-19 assessment and treatment, and access to non-COVID-19 services directly or indirectly impacted by the health emergency.

What’s your favourite thing about working in the disability sector?
Working in the disability sector gives me an opportunity to assist and advocate for those who face barriers and challenges on a daily basis. To be able support these people to access best possible health care is incredibly rewarding.

What led you to the RCH?
I am a Physiotherapist by background with have a post graduate certificate in Adolescent Oncology and I have always had an interest in health across the lifespan. I have two children who have a diagnosed disability, so to be able to support families in a similar position at such a highly regarded paediatric specialist service is the ultimate job description for me!

What do you like doing in your spare time?
I love spending time at the beach with family who are becoming keen surfers.

What has the year 2020 taught you?
I love planning for things, so 2020 has been a challenge! 2020 has really made me appreciate good health and time with family- it’s also taught me how amazingly resilient we humans can be.

To learn more about International Day of People with Disability, visit: https://www.idpwd.com.au/about/