Hello, my name’s Emily Galton and I am the Community Health and Engagement Officer (CHEO) for the West Hampshire, Southampton and Isle of Wight Wheelchair and Repair Service.

I was a young carer to my mum growing up. I was just 8 when I started caring for her, and continued to do so for 23 years. My mum was a wheelchair user for 20 years and this lived experience has given me an understanding of the challenges wheelchair users and their families face. 

I’m a parent carer too! I’m a mum to one son, who is Autistic & has ADHD. Alongside working for Ross Care, I’m an active steering group member of the Southampton Parent Carer Forum. I’ve also worked alongside Physio’s and OTs as a rehab assistant within the NHS. With a wealth of lived experience in caring for and working with people with a disability.

If you see me around the service centres, please do say hello. I look forward to meeting many of you! 

Role & Responsibilities of the CHEO

The CHEO plays an integral role within Hampshire & IoW Wheelchair Service. From engaging with service users, liaising with the clinical team, gaining and monitoring feedback for service improvements, to attending community events.