GCU lecturer to join government advisory panel

A Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) researcher is to form part of a government panel aimed at helping more than one million disabled people achieve their full potential in work.

Dr Jean McQueen, Lecturer in Occupational Therapy, School of Health and Life Sciences, has been invited by the Secretary of State for Health, Jeremy Hunt, and Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, David Gauke, to form part of the Expert Advisory Group for Health and Work.

Following publication of the green paper last October, titled Improving Lives: the Work, Health, and Disability Green Paper, the group of experts is being re-convened to support the government’s commitment to full and productive employment for all.

They will advise the government on policy options to improve access to work for people with disabilities and health conditions.

Dr McQueen, who joined the university in May, said: “It is a great recognition to be asked to re-join the Expert Advisory Group.

“We must not write off those with disabilities but instead find jobs that fit well with their skills and attributes. We have seen the tack of the government change and their election manifesto stated a wish to half the disability employment gap in the coming decade. I hope that our discussion and advice can have a positive impact on people’s life to fulfil theiraspirations in work.”