Biography

I have worked in the NHS for 28 years as an occupational therapist, and recently joined the University on secondment to continue my professional development and journey within the profession. I have a strong interest in academia and how this aligns with clinical practice.

My areas of clinical interest and specialism include physical health and long-term conditions. I worked for many years as the clinical lead within a regional wheelchair and seating service. More recently, I was the professional lead and head of service for the occupational therapy teams working within the remit of North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust. This included many different teams based across two acute district general hospitals, numerous community teams including children's services, community rehabilitation, acquired brain injury and many others.

I am passionate about maintaining links to clinical practice in order to benefit the students, clinicians, academics and ultimately, the service users accessing occupational therapy services.

Qualifications and memberships

BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy (1995) University of Derby

MSc Rehabilitation Studies (2007) University of Lancaster

Rosalind Franklin Programme- NHS Leadership Academy Award in Senior Healthcare Leadership (2023)

Member of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists

Academic and research interests

Exploring service user's experience of NHS services

Commpassionate leadership

Emotional Intelligence

The use of simulation within University to prepare students for practice-based learning

Recent external roles

Head of Occupational Therapy, North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust (2020- date)

Deputy Head of Occupational Therapy , North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust (2009-2020)