Jennifer Webster

MSc Occupational Therapy, BSc Occupational Therapy

Neurology, Oncology, General Medicine / Surgery

Introduction
I qualified as an Occupational Therapist is 2001 from Oxford Brookes University and have spent the majority of my career specialising in neurological rehabilitation. I have had significant experience working with clients who have Central Nervous System Malignancies or whom present with neurological impairment as a result of Traumatic Brain Injury, Cerebrovasular Accident (CVA), degenerative conditions or other diseases such as Guillain-Barre syndrome.

I am skilled at assessing the client in relation to their physical, cognitive and psycho-social functioning, and am competent in implementing a variety of treatment techniques including fatigue management, postural management, anxiety management and education on strategies to minimise the effects of cognitive dysfunction. I have worked with clients and their carers with a range of functioning from those in a minimally conscious or persistent vegetative state to those returning to their vocation or education, establishing good therapeutic relationships.

In 2004, I completed an MSc in Occupational Therapy focusing on neurosciences which enabled me to develop my critical thinking and problem solving skills in addition to consolidating and extending my practical and theoretical knowledge of neurophysiology and the theory underpinning neurorehabilitation.

I have co-written a number chapters in key oncology-related textbooks and journals, and contributed to the NICE guidance on metastatic spinal cord compression and the National Cancer Action Team’s work stream on the impact of neurological deficits.

I am currently an Independent Occupational Therapist. My role involves:
♦ Provision of therapeutic interventions to clients in the community with varying clinical presentations such as amputation, stroke and traumatic brain injury
♦ Associate case manager for West Country Case Management, which involves provision of a case management service for clients who have sustained catastrophic injuries to maximise their quality of life and function
♦ Working alongside existing community interest groups to develop and implement specific programmes of rehabilitation around dementia care
♦ Co-working with representatives from the World Health Organisation Bone and Joint Decade to produce information booklets and provide consultancy services where appropriate

In addition, I also undertake medico-legal work for Somek and Associates. I accept instructions from both Claimant and Defendant Solicitors and Insurers. I am fully aware of my responsibilities under the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) pertaining to Expert Witnesses.

Professional Affiliations
British Association of Occupational Therapists
College of Occupational Therapists Specialist Section - Independent Practice

Professional Education
2007    Professional Diploma in Management Studies, Carshalton College
2005    MSc Occupational Therapy, Cardiff University    
2001    BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy, Oxford Brookes University