Interview with Chris Grant - Community Relationship Team Leader at AbilityNet

Chris Grant first joined AbilityNet as a Technology Volunteer before moving into a full-time, permanent role. In this interview, he reflects on his career journey and the factors that have helped him grow professionally, leading to his current position as Community Relationship Team Leader.

Please can you tell us a bit about yourself?

My career with AbilityNet began in an unexpected way. After losing my job with an Internet Service Provider due to ill health, I started searching online for new opportunities. That’s when I discovered AbilityNet and was instantly drawn to its mission.

I've always been passionate about helping others and my initial role with AbilityNet was in a voluntary position. During my time as a volunteer I was proud to have won various awards including Tech4Good Digital Volunteer of the Year and AbilityNet Volunteer of the Year. Outside of work I enjoy cycling and am an avid football fan - I've even run a football predictor every year for the last seven years. I come from a busy port town in the Scottish Highlands and am proud of my Scottish roots. 

Chris Grant, smiling at the camera

Can you tell us about your career progression at AbilityNet?

I began as a volunteer in 2018. At the time, I didn’t know much about digital inclusion, but it didn’t take long for me to see the impact AbilityNet volunteers make in people's lives. Volunteering gave me the chance to develop a wide range of skills, from project management and volunteer development to customer service. More importantly, it deepened my understanding of accessibility and the vital role digital inclusion plays in creating equal opportunities - giving me a renewed sense of purpose.

While volunteering, I kept an eye out for paid roles within the organisation. Eventually, I secured a short-term funded position through the Scottish Government, which opened the door to a permanent role. In 2020, after a successful interview, I joined as a Community Relationship Officer. Since 2024 I’ve been a Community Relationship Team Leader - a role that’s been incredibly rewarding.

Who or what has supported you to develop in your career?

The biggest factor in my professional growth has been the support I’ve received at AbilityNet. My line manager has been outstanding, and the opportunities I’ve been given have shaped me into the person I am today. When I first joined, I doubted my skills due to personal setbacks, but the encouragement and belief from the team has been immense.

What's the best thing about working at AbilityNet, that gets you excited to go to work in the morning?

For me, the best thing about working at AbilityNet is seeing the difference we make in people’s lives; whether it’s helping someone get online for the first time, providing a digital device, or offering the skills and confidence to navigate the digital world. Every day, you know your work matters.

What would you say to someone thinking about working at AbilityNet?

If you’re looking for a role where you can make a real difference, AbilityNet is a fantastic place to work. Every task, big or small, contributes to improving digital inclusion and accessibility. The team’s great too; everyone genuinely looks out for you and wants you to do well. From skill development to career progression, the charity invests in helping you reach your potential.

Interested in working in digital accessibility?

Default content