Operative with diabetes

[Dents123]

Hi I’m currently in the process of applying for a role with network rail as an operative. I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes 22 years ago it is very well controlled and I wear a sensor on my arm which provides constant monitoring of my blood sugar.

Just wanted to know if anyone could shed some light on any experience they’ve had with colleagues who worked in this role or themselves who had diabetes?
Should I expect my application to be chucked to the bottom of the pile as soon as they read “type 1 diabetic”

thanks

 

[172345]

I'm a driver and I'm type 1.

 

[Dents123]

I'm a driver and I'm type 1.

Were you already a driver when you were diagnosed? Or did you get the job and pass the interview and medical with diabetes? Sorry for all the questions I’ve read so many negative posts about type 1s on the rail

 

[172345]

No when I was diagnosed I wasn't on the railway. I joined London Midland as a guard and they treated me with respect and wasn't held back because of my condition. A few years later I got a job as a driver with another company, again being treated on my ability not disability. Both companies I've worked for have been golden and I cannot fault them. However I must stress I have been interviewed by some TOCs who treated me appallingly. What I would say is your journey won't be easy and you will get knocked back because of your condition, but don't give up! Us T1s can do safety critical jobs safely.

 

[Dents123]

No when I was diagnosed I wasn't on the railway. I joined London Midland as a guard and they treated me with respect and wasn't held back because of my condition. A few years later I got a job as a driver with another company, again being treated on my ability not disability. Both companies I've worked for have been golden and I cannot fault them. However I must stress I have been interviewed by some TOCs who treated me appallingly. What I would say is your journey won't be easy and you will get knocked back because of your condition, but don't give up! Us T1s can do safety critical jobs safely.

Cheers mate!