Website text editor, Ross Flood (aka Floody), had a chat with new Cerebral Palsy Society employee, Janet Chapman. As Floody found out, Janet is a very obliging lady with a wide range of skills. Read the text of the interview below to find out more about our newest staff member.

Floody: What role do you have at the CP Society?

Janet: I am the Members Manager

Floody: What are your responsibilities within that role?

Janet: My primary responsibility within my role is to communicate with membership. My job will be to encourage and ensure eligible members have the opportunity to participate in the Cerebral Palsy Society’s existing and future programmes. I will be involved with other initiatives as the society continues to evolve.

Floody: What are your first impressions of the CP Society?

Janet:

•The CP Society is offering their members opportunities that they would not normally have access to under the regular government funding system.
• That the society is proactive and as a result has increased membership to an impressive level.
• The Society is passionate about their people and focus on what they can offer members.

Floody: What skills do you bring to your new job?

Janet: I bring the knowledge of thirteen years experience covering various areas of the disability sector.

Floody: What do you think of the programs set up by the CP Society?

Janet:
• I think the programmes are fantastic. Having worked in the disability sector for many years I am very excited to be able to offer members, programmes that are of benefit to the person with CP, and at no cost to the person/family.
• The programmes are well thought through and designed to capture the varied needs of the person.

Floody: What experiences do you have working with people with disabilities?

Janet: My daughter Aimee was born with a serious congenital heart condition, which involved many years in the health sector, from this experience I became a strong advocate for Aimee.

• 1995 – 2007 I was employed with the Brain Injury Association as a Liaison Officer. My role was varied but included support, advocacy and co-ordination for people who had sustained a brain injury and their families. I have had extensive intervention with ACC – MOH – MSD – Health Professionals and Service Providers.
• My previous employment was with The Laura Fergusson Trust where I was part of the Senior Management Team. My role included Key Relationships, New Business/Contract initiatives.

Floody: What interests do you have outside work?

Janet: My interests are: Socialising with friends, boating, camping, walking and cooking.

Floody: Any added information will be greatly appreciated

Janet: My background has been diverse, ranging from working on a charter boat, Sales Representative and self employed designing hats for the racing ladies, specialising in bridal.

Ross Flood- Editor
55 Hillside Road
Papatoetoe
Auckland
Phone/Fax (including answer phone) (09) 278-7106
Email Ross Flood