When did you start the HSC?
1982
Why did you choose to work in the HSC?
Occupational Therapy was always my career of choice, there is such diversity and so many opportunities with this job role, where you can really make a difference to peoples lives. Occupational Therapy is the use of self-care, work, education, leisure and play activities to promote and maintain health, prevent disability, increase independent function, and enhance development.
Occupational therapy provides practical support to empower people to facilitate recovery and overcome barriers following, illness , disease, trauma, aging or developmental delays .
across children and adults of all ages
Describe what you do?
I am currently Head of Occupational Therapy Services for Western Trust I have been in this role for 13 years. Prior to this within the Trust , I have worked within Acute, Care of Older People’s services, Children and Adults with a Learning Disability and Community Paediatrics.
I am operationally and professionally responsible for Occupational Therapy Services within the AAH, SWAH, North West Centre for Neurological Rehabilitation Waterside , OHPCC and Grangewood and North West Cancer Centre . I am also responsible for Community Adult , Reablement/Rehab , Paediatrics, Wheelchair Services Community Neuro, Brain Injury, and Pain Management, Rheumatology and Hand therapy outpatients . Together with my great team leads we have responsibility for 190+ Occupational therapy Staff.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
After 41 years I still love my job. While I no longer have a clinical role I most enjoy developing and improving Occupational Therapy services with the overarching focus of making life better for our population. I also enjoy problem solving and fixing!