Emma Benfield

Qualifications 

BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy

Specialisms 

• General Medicine & Surgery
• Mental Health
• Orthopaedics/ Trauma
• Amputation

Introduction 

I qualified as an occupational therapist in 2008 and completed training after obtaining a degree from the University of Bath.  Subsequently I have worked with clients with a variety of physical and mental health conditions both in the statutory and private sectors, primarily in and around London. These clinical roles have provided me with a wide clinical knowledge base and an in-depth understanding of the impact of pain, disability and loss of function. I have experience in the management of complex orthopaedic problems, upper and lower limb amputations, cognitive difficulties, pain management and mental health conditions, including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and generalised anxiety disorder.

I have worked as a clinical case manager and private occupational therapist alongside my NHS role since 2013, working with clients who have sustained multiple and catastrophic injuries as a result of road traffic accidents, medical negligence or workplace incidents. I have prepared a large number of reports for private clients to date. I am a confident writer and I have excellent clinical and analytical skills that I have acquired throughout my career.

My role as a case manager and private occupational therapist involves working closely with claimants to increase function, promote independence and, where needed, achieve good vocational outcomes following their injuries. I am experienced in working with claimants to improve pain management and psychological distress following injury. I am competent at managing risk factors for clients associated with a decline in physical, mental and cognitive function. I have a good knowledge base of private providers for health and social care, and utilise this when working with claimants.

I have prepared many evidence based assessments, recommended appropriate packages of care and assessed for and prescribed a range of adaptive equipment to support complex hospital discharges and community based clients. I have had extensive experience in managing care and equipment needs for clients who are at high risk of due to self neglect, mental health difficulties, cognitive deficits and associated difficulties regarding mental capacity. I have supervised junior therapists and students. I have facilitated training across therapy departments within the NHS and privately, most recently including the personal injury department of a law firm.

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.