Career History
My initial interest in working with individuals with Acquired Brain Injury began in 1987 while working in a specialist school for children with sensory deficits, who also presented with a wide range of physical and cognitive deficits and emotional/behavioural challenges. I then undertook employment in a hospital brain injury unit and trained as a Social Worker, qualifying in 1997. After gaining 20 years’ experience of working with individuals with Acquired Brain Injury in a hospital setting, I joined Head First in May 2012.
Current Work
My current work is supporting my clients and their families to achieve and maintain their optimum quality of life. This means hearing, understanding and knowing my client, understanding who they are and who they want to be in the context of their life. From this foundation I am then able to facilitate and empower my client towards their goals and/or represent and advocate on their behalf.
This requires continual monitoring and assessment and good communication with my client, their family and those who are most important to my client and those involved in their rehabilitation and care. This will also include safeguarding, acting as appropriate adult, risk assessment, risk management, crisis intervention, or just being available to the client when needed.
A key factor is engaging a wide range of appropriate health and social care professionals and coordinating them to work in a collaborative way ensuring my client’s needs and aspirations are a pivotal part of the treatment approach.
Presenting/Facilitating Learning
I have presented at national and international conferences, primarily on sexuality and relationships and I would describe my training style as collaborative, interactive, inquiring and thought provoking.
I have also provided training for Local Authority Services, School and Colleges, Client Support Teams and Charitable Trusts.
I am also responsible for the planning and organising of training for Head First.
Competencies and Key Skills
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