A Member's View - "First Impressions"

On 15 January 2002 I was leisurely reading a copy of the Ballymoney Times when I got the shock of my life. Out of the page jumped a mug-shot of myself! Underneath, in very large bold print, probably font size 72 (size 14 recommended for visually impaired!) was the heading `Pearse appointed to Health and Social Services Council.' Oh Lord, I thought, there is no escape now!
 

The reason I applied was because I saw it as an opportunity to explore issues which would be of benefit to me in my work as well as a general interest in health issues. In my current job as Disability Development Officer my role is to enhance and empower, in a more inclusive way, people with a disability within the Borough of Ballymoney and indeed, beyond.

My first task was to set up a Disability Forum that brought together a cross-section of people with a disability throughout the Borough and is 50% user led. So, I thought, if I could get in with this crowd it would enable me to make contacts and access relevant information. I was, therefore, very pleased to be appointed.

The first meeting I attended was in Randalstown and I was not looking forward to it. There were more people there than I expected and they looked `wild important' and knowledgeable. It was a relief to see another Upperlands man there in the name of Cllr Bertie Montgomery!

The next hurdle was to digest the contents of B.B.E. (big brown envelopes) sent out on a regular basis by Jacqui and Briege. They contain minutes, reports, maps, claim forms, etc, etc. When I first read some of the reports, the big words and acronyms were like double Dutch to me. Thankfully, as you can see, I am now getting used to them!

Six months on then, I must say I now feel part of the Council. All of the members are very friendly, helpful and not nearly as important as I initially thought they were. I am getting a lot out of it and hope that my contributions are of value.

Finally, thanks to all the staff at Broadway Avenue, they are helpful, supportive and it is good to know that they are always at the end of the phone line!

PEARSE BOYLE