Andrew Smart

How did you first hear about/get involved with PAMIS?
I have been working with PAMIS since 2014 and first heard about PAMIS when I was teaching swimming to children and adults with a wide variety of disabilities including PMLD. A parent informed me of PAMIS and all the great work they do.

What inspired you to work with PAMIS?
I enjoy working with people and really enjoy having the opportunity to help provide accessible leisure and cultural activities for people with disabilities. I believe everyone should be able to have regular access to activities and sporting opportunities.

What is your role?
I work as the Cultural and Leisure Worker, developing leisure programmes for PAMIS families. I also work with local organizations, authorities, charities, schools to try and help create as many opportunities as possible for people with PMLD and their carers.

What are your areas of expertise?
I have an honours degree in Sport and Exercise Science and have taught swimming to all ages and ability levels since 2007. I have also worked in sports development and accessible leisure for a number of years.

What does working at PAMIS mean to you?
It means a lot, I enjoy working for PAMIS and getting to meet and work with all the families. I believe I am very fortunate to able spend time with families during events and accessible activities; it is great being able to get to know everyone.

What is a typical day for you? Day to day functions?
During the day I plan and produce the activity programmes which are available around 4 times a year and have 3 or 4 months of activities on them. The planning often involves visiting new venues, meeting with other organisations and developing a structured plan for the event. I also work with families and help with any enquires they might have about accessible leisure opportunities or events.

Tell us something we wouldn’t guess about you?
I enjoy reading history and psychology books. I particularly books on civil rights and the psychology of human behaviour.

Why do you think it’s important for people to know about PAMIS and the services they provide?
I believe it is important to let people know about PAMIS as the services provided are designed to help people with PMLD and their carers. Making sure people are aware of support that is available to them is vital and PAMIS will help in any way they can. As well as helping people with PMLD and their carers the work PAMIS does in communities is great way to raise awareness and promote a more inclusive society.

What is your motto, or favourite quote?
“Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere”
Albert Einstein