Our Team

Katherine Smith

Brain Injury Case Manager

Specialism
Brain Injury, Rehabilitation and Neurodegenerative Conditions

Geographical Area
Kent, Sussex, Surrey, South London

Career History
I qualified as an Occupational Therapist (OT) in 2010; I was born with a physical disability and choose to work in health care to support others with disabilities to live well and achieve what is important to them. My career has been highly varied, working in acute general hospitals, community rehabilitation and community mental health. These roles have involved managing a caseload and leading services supporting adults with brain injuries, dementia and motor neurone disease, alongside their families.

I am skilled in and have extensive experience of supporting people with complex health needs, often through emotionally distressing situations, that are rapidly changing. I am an experienced care co-ordinator, well-versed in advocating for clients and navigating families through health systems and statutory services that can feel overwhelming to them.

I am very comfortable with working autonomously and independently when needed. I am also comfortable and highly value working with health professionals, other statutory services and charitable organisations to ensure the client is experiencing joined-up, responsive care that reflects their wishes and preferences.

Current Work
I am a skilled and experienced practitioner in complex care planning. I thrive on being able to deliver personalised care. I take pride in being able to naturally build a strong rapport and positive relationships with clients and their families, to ensure that they feel well-supported and represented at all times. I take my responsibility for the input I provide very seriously and see my input as a long-term commitment to fulfilling the client and family’s needs.

Competencies and Key Skills

Experience in management of adults with ABI and of working clinically in the field of rehabilitation following brain injury.
Experience of implementing community-based rehabilitation programmes and facilitating complex discharge planning, linking in with local services where possible.
Experienced in provision of supervision and staff development.
Managing a varied, complex and long-term caseload.
Assess, plan, evaluate and review plans of care/support in accordance with goals and needs.
Leadership, management, facilitation and service development training and experience.
Effective communication skills and ability to build a positive rapport with clients, including in challenging circumstances.
Ability to work collaboratively alongside health, social care, other statutory services and charitable organisations.
Passionate and dedicated to promoting the development and well-being of individuals with complex needs.
Providing a holistic and empathetic client-centred approach.
Ability to work under pressure.