Sandra Exon

Qualifications 

BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy, Full Member of Expert Witness Institute (MEWI)

Specialisms 

• Trauma
• Orthopaedics
• Chronic fatigue
• Fibromyalgia
• Sensory loss
• Elderly
• Palliative care

Introduction

I qualified as an Occupational Therapist in 1998 from the University of Wales. Since qualifying I have gained a wealth of experience working with adults in the health and social care sector, covering a broad range of health conditions and disabilities. My specialisms include care of the elderly; trauma and orthopaedics; long term neurological conditions such as MS, ME, chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia; vascular (including amputees); cardiac; respiratory and palliative care. I also have experience of working with visual impairment and all levels of hearing loss, and have a native understanding of the deaf culture/community. I am fluent in British Sign Language (BSL) and also have a CACDP Level 2 qualification in BSL. 
 
I currently work part time as a Therapy Team Lead for an integrated therapy team, based on a rehabilitation unit within a community hospital. My skills include carrying out holistic assessments both in hospital and community settings with individuals who have a broad range of physical conditions, including sensory loss. I have extensive experience of specialist assessments to assess physical and cognitive functions. I also have specialist skills in manual handling, posture & seating, wheelchair referrals, housing reports, DLA/Attendance Allowance/PIP reports, care package recommendations, and risk assessment.

I have experience of implementing community based rehabilitation programs, and organising support packages linking in with local services where possible. I am able to work both autonomously and with a multi-disciplinary team, family, carers and those in the voluntary sector. I pride myself on my excellent communication skills and ability to communicate with people of all ages and from all walks of life with creativity, empathy and humour.

I am up to date with the working practices of the NHS and social care systems in terms of service provision. I am also knowledgeable with regards to current legislation including discrimination laws, safeguarding and vulnerable people, and data protection. I have extensive knowledge and experience of the Mental Capacity Act. I am committed to continually developing my clinical skills and am up to date with occupational therapy models and interventions.

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.