Sarah Blakeburn
Summary
Accomplished HCPC Registered Occupational Therapist with a proven track record at Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust enhancing pediatric patient outcomes through expert assessment and treatment of functional difficulties. Demonstrated excellence in clinical reasoning and fostering significant improvements in motor skills development and sensory needs. Committed to advancing patient independence and quality of life through innovative treatment planning and goal setting.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Pediatric Occupational Therapist
University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust
01.2024 - Current
- Supported the transition from early intervention services within county wide Special Educational Needs (SEN) schools by collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and families throughout the process.
- Optimised fortnightly Initial Patient Consultation clinics efficiency by maintaining accurate documentation, managing caseloads effectively, and adhering to regulatory guidelines.
- Increased caseload of 30-40 children''s participation in daily activities by addressing sensory processing challenges through tailored sensory integration strategies.
- Implemented creative problem-solving methods to address complex cases involving multiple diagnoses or comorbid conditions in pediatric clients.
- Adapted environments by making changes to patient homes, workplaces and school environments to promote safety, independence and participation.
- Reduced classroom barriers for students with disabilities by collaborating with teachers to modify materials or implement accommodations.
- Improved children''s fine motor skills by implementing individualized therapy plans and utilizing evidence-based interventions.
- Promoted greater independence for children with special needs by teaching self-care tasks such as dressing, eating, and grooming.
Occupational Therapist
West Sussex County Council
04.2021 - 12.2022
- Developed strong rapport with patients, establishing trust and facilitating a positive therapy experience.
- Managed caseload of 15 adults effectively by prioritizing tasks, coordinating schedules, and ensuring timely completion of required reports and EHR documentation.
- Promoted a culture of continuous improvement by participating in quality assurance initiatives and incorporating feedback into practice.
- Educated patients, families, and caregivers on strategies to promote independence at home, enhancing quality of life.
- Evaluated patients'' progress and adjusted treatment plans accordingly, fostering continuous improvement in functional abilities.
- Performed assessments during treatment to determine progress according to goals.
- Recommended equipment to use in-home to maximize opportunities for wellness.
Occupational Therapist
Elysian Animal Assisted Therapy and Learning CIC
09.2021 - 12.2021
- Work with children and young people with anxiety and a range of complex emotional and mental health needs during term time.
- Facilitated Education (Secondary), alternative provision, therapy and therapeutic placements for children and young people.
- Participated in multidisciplinary teams focused on developing comprehensive support plans for students aged with complex needs.
- Collaborated with educators, school administrators and external professionals in development of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).
- Fed and watered animals to provide necessary nutrients and keep pets healthy.
- Maintained clean and safe living environments for animals by regularly cleaning enclosures and providing proper bedding materials.
Occupational Therapist
University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust
08.2019 - 09.2021
- Documented patient progress accurately and efficiently, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary team members for comprehensive patient care and optimal results.
- Participated in continuing education opportunities to stay current with industry trends and best practices in occupational therapy.
- Coordinated discharge planning efforts alongside case managers to ensure seamless transitions between care providers upon leaving facility.
- Promoted independence in activities of daily living through task analysis, environmental adaptations, and compensatory techniques.
- Established compassionate and caring relationships with patients.
- Utilized assistive technology devices when necessary while working closely with vendors/providers on device selection and customization process.
- Reduced hospital readmission rates by providing thorough discharge instructions, follow-up appointments, and referrals for additional services as needed.
Occupational Therapy Student
The University Of Northampton
09.2016 - 06.2020
- Cultivated strong relationships with clinical supervisors throughout fieldwork placements, receiving constructive feedback that led to increased competence as an emerging practitioner.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams for comprehensive patient care, improving overall health and wellbeing.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current with best practices in occupational therapy, delivering high-quality services to patients.
- Demonstrated professionalism, adaptability, and resilience when faced with challenging situations during occupational therapy student experiences, contributing to personal growth and development as a future clinician.
- Developed effective time management strategies to balance academic coursework, fieldwork placements, and extracurricular commitments while maintaining high levels of performance in all areas.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Occupational Therapy
The University of Northampton
Northampton, United Kingdom06.2019
Access To Higher Education Diploma
Central Bedfordshire College
Bedford, United Kingdom06.2016
Skills
Child Centered Care
Sensory Integration
Motor Skills Development
Handwriting Improvement
Visual Perception Training
Gross Motor Coordination
Fine Motor Coordination
Patient Assessments
Intervention Planning
Clinical Documentation (EHR)
Additional Information
- British Citizen applying for BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP)
- Languages: French, Spanish - Limited working proficiency
- Member of Royal College of Occupational Therapists - Specialist Section - Children, Young People and Families
Languages
English
Native language
French
Intermediate
B1
Spanish
Intermediate
B1
Timeline
Pediatric Occupational Therapist
University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust
01.2024 - Current
Occupational Therapist
Elysian Animal Assisted Therapy and Learning CIC
09.2021 - 12.2021
Occupational Therapist
West Sussex County Council
04.2021 - 12.2022
Occupational Therapist
University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust
08.2019 - 09.2021
Occupational Therapy Student
The University Of Northampton
09.2016 - 06.2020
Bachelor of Science - Occupational Therapy
The University of Northampton
Access To Higher Education Diploma
Central Bedfordshire College
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