Sadia Hussain

Qualifications

BSc (Hons) Speech & Language Therapy

Specialisms

• Adult Neurological and ENT conditions
• Bilingual Urdu (Punjabi) Speaking / Interpreting experience

Introduction

I qualified as a Speech and Language Therapist in 2003 from University College London. Over the past twenty years, I have focused on the clinical field of neurological rehabilitation, treating individuals with communication, cognitive, and swallowing difficulties.

My areas of clinical expertise include brain injury, spinal cord injury, and dysphagia (swallowing disorders). I have worked extensively in both acute medical care and specialist rehabilitation units to understand individuals' current and future needs related to communication, cognition, and swallowing disorders.

Throughout my career, I have been employed in both the NHS and the independent sector, holding specialist roles as the clinical lead in dysphagia, neuro-rehabilitation, brain injury, and stroke. Currently, I serve as a consultant clinical lead at the Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital and British Home, where I assess treat individuals with complex neurological and spinal cord injuries. I conduct detailed assessments and utilise a tailored, evidence-based approach to treatment. This often involves working within a multidisciplinary team and utilising advanced practices and technology to manage swallowing and communication.

I have enhanced my knowledge of communication software and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) equipment. I run specialised swallow clinics that use objective swallow assessments and collaborate with specialists to support the diagnosis of autism in adults.

Since 2010, I have also worked as an expert witness with Somek & Associates, regularly receiving instructions from both claimant and defendant solicitors. I am well-acquainted with my responsibilities under the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) related to expert witnesses. In 2016, I was appointed Associate Trainer and have led the development of the expert speech and language therapy team. Additionally, I have published articles in the Expert Witness Journal, addressing significant issues related to cognitive-communication difficulties and the use of technology in assessments.