John is a Salford man, born, raised and living in Ordsall. As he left school, he had started working with Remploy, the UK’s leading disability specialist, working to transform lives through sustainable employment. Ordsall Hall had just re-opened and, being a bit of a history buff, John secured an apprenticeship with the Ordsall Hall team.

It was a fantastic team to work with and, with the support and guidance from the Salford Community Leisure staff who run the hall, he started to grow in skills, connections and confidence. As his traineeship came to an end, he continued as a volunteer, working with staff, working in the galleries, engaging with the heritage of Ordsall Hall and its unique sense of place in his community. In 2013, a new job came open at Salford Museum and Art Gallery, another vital centre for culture within Salford Community Leisure’s portfolio.

"I feel really proud to work in the city where I was born. I’ve never let my disability get in the way of achieving my goals; I want to encourage people in Salford to do the same."

The skills and relationships built in his apprenticeship made him a perfect fit for the job and he is a key member of the galleries team. John has matured into his professional work, enjoying the time with visitors young and old, hearing their memories and responses and being a host and advocate for his city.