Chelsea Abbott

Qualifications

BSc Occupational Therapy

Specialisms

Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury, Multiple Trauma, & Orthopaedic Injuries

Introduction

I qualified as an Occupational Therapist in 2009 and since then have worked in various clinical settings. In-patient settings include A&E, trauma and orthopaedics, vascular care, stroke unit, palliative care, respiratory unit, medical high dependency ward and ICU. I have significant experience in polytrauma, brain injury, spinal injuries and amputations. Whilst in the community, I completed complex assessments in clients' homes, care homes, schools, clinics and day centres. I am aware of how a client’s environment can have a significant impact during assessments, enabling me to prioritise client comfort and obtain accurate information whilst creating a positive, stress-free experience for the client and their family. 

As a Case Manager, I work with individuals (both children and adults) and their families following a catastrophic injury to co-ordinate a comprehensive rehabilitation programme after completing a thorough immediate needs assessment (INA). Using my holistic approach, I support clients to achieve their goals in all aspects of life, whilst ensuring all care needs are met. I have experience in researching and instructing private medical consultants and AHPs and advising on and implementing care packages. As well as more unique goals: adapting cars, exploring the possibility of a private hydrotherapy pool in the garden, house moves and completing educational courses.

I also work as an independent occupational therapist for multiple well-established companies, supporting clients with a variety of medical conditions and rehabilitation needs, such as (but not limited to), neurological conditions, spinal injuries, major trauma, fatigue management, equipment and housing needs.

I previously worked as the Clinical Lead Occupational Therapist for environmental controls (EC) for the West Midlands, I was responsible for co-ordination, and delivery of evidence-based OT service. I am a clinical expert in assistive technology and provided expert/second opinions to the OTs and other professionals within my team, across the West Midlands Region, and at a national level.  I empowered people with a range of complex disabilities to be able to communicate and control their environment. This could include helping an individual to speak and play with their young grandchildren, allow an avid football fan to control the TV to watch the big game or enable an individual to use the computer to video call a long distance family member.

I use my specialist clinical knowledge and experience to complete informed, detailed assessments, which helps me navigate client complexities and achieve individualised, goal-focused rehabilitation plans. I have excellent communication skills and my  highly organised approach ensures that I am responsive to a client needs, and provide tailored solutions and proactive support. 

I accept instructions from both claimant and defendant solicitors and insurers. I have undergone formal training in the medico-legal process and am fully aware of my responsibilities under Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) pertaining to expert witnesses.