Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
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Sara McLaughlin

Manchester

Summary

Qualified as a BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapist from Northumbria University in 2020, with experience working with children and young adults across residential settings, educational, and clinic settings. Skilled in collaborating with case managers on litigation cases, delivering specialist assessments and interventions, including environmental adaptations and equipment provision. Passionate about person-centred care, supporting independence, and working collaboratively with families, carers, and multidisciplinary teams. Experienced in both clinical and leadership roles, including service development, safeguarding, and training delivery. Regular seminar presenter at the Autism and ADHD Show in Manchester (last 3 years). Completed Sensory Integration training (levels 1–6), strengthening expertise in assessment and therapeutic practice.

Overview

5
5
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work history

Occupational Therapy Lead

Manchester Occupational Therapy Services
Manchester
02.2025 - Current
  • Leading team of 16 staff, including therapists and therapy assistants, overseeing appraisals and supervisions.
  • Supporting wellbeing of all staff to create positive culture.
  • Review and enhancing company policies and procedures to ensure compliance and efficacy.
  • Practising across schools, residential care, and community settings, managing complex cases involving litigation.
  • Conducting specialist assessments and interventions for individuals with SEN needs or disabilities.
  • Providing expert witness reports for tribunals while contributing to multi-agency case management.
  • Delivering training sessions to staff, parents, and carers, representing the service at professional events.
  • Developing networks with Local Authorities, Case Managers, and Care Providers to foster partnerships and generate income.
  • Creating content for social media to promote services effectively.

Paediatric Occupational Therapist

Paediatric Occupational Therapy Services
Malta
08.2021 - 01.2022
  • Assessed children's developmental needs through standardised evaluations and observations.
  • Facilitated clinic based intervention, with specialist SI equipment.
  • Developed personalised therapy plans aimed at enhancing motor skills and daily living activities.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care and support for clients.
  • Educated families on therapeutic techniques and strategies to reinforce skills at home.


Occupational Therapist

Exemplar Healthcare
Newcastle upon Tyne
07.2020 - 08.2021
  • Sole OT within a 22-bed care home for individuals experiencing brain and spinal injuries, schizophrenia, autism, and complex mental health needs.
  • Assisted clients in developing personalised rehabilitation plans to improve daily living skills.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to assess patient progress and adapt treatment plans accordingly.
  • Implemented therapeutic activities that promoted physical and cognitive development in diverse patient populations.
  • Educated clients and families on effective techniques for managing disabilities and enhancing quality of life.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Occupational Therapy

Northumbria University
Newcastle upon Tyne
09/2016 - 05/2020

Certificate of Higher Education - Sensory Integration

CLASI
02/2022 - 06/2024

Skills

  • Reflective practice
  • Leadership
  • Flexible and autonomous
  • Training delivery and public speaking
  • Safeguarding lead
  • Communication skills
  • Strategic planning

Certification

  • IPSEA SEN Law (modules 1 - 3)
  • Safeguarding Children & Adults (Level 3) – Jan 2025
  • Moving & Handling – Feb 2025
  • First Aid – Feb 2025
  • PDA Advocate (NW Autism & SEND Consultancy) – 2024
  • Modular Seating Solutions (Mercado Medic) – 2024
  • Trauma-Informed Practice: Gold Level (Thrive LND) – 2024
  • Level 3 Award in Leadership & Management – 2023
  • Student Educator (Salford University) – 2022
  • Makaton Basics – 2022
  • Full UK Drivers lisence

Timeline

Occupational Therapy Lead

Manchester Occupational Therapy Services
02.2025 - Current

Paediatric Occupational Therapist

Paediatric Occupational Therapy Services
08.2021 - 01.2022

Occupational Therapist

Exemplar Healthcare
07.2020 - 08.2021

Bachelor of Science - Occupational Therapy

Northumbria University
09/2016 - 05/2020

Certificate of Higher Education - Sensory Integration

CLASI
02/2022 - 06/2024

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Sara McLaughlin