Gemma Higgins
BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy
Specialisms
Adults (18+)
- Amputations (upper and lower limb)
- Orthopaedic injuries, including joint replacements
- Cancer
- Terminal illnesses and palliative care
- Neurological conditions
- Spinal injury (e.g. fractures)
- Chronic pain
- Associated mental health
- Associated internal injuries (e.g. stoma)
- Associated brain injury (mild to moderate)
- Associated pressure sores
- Associated visual impairment
Clinical Currency Statement
As at January 2026, I am engaged in the role of Occupational Therapist at Swansea Bay University Health Board for an average of 120 hours per month.
Signed
Specific Injuries Experience
Gemma is a highly experienced Occupational Therapist with over a decade of dedicated clinical experience delivering high-quality, detailed assessments, care and equipment interventions for adults with complex needs. She has extensive experience supporting individuals from the acute stages of recovery through to long-term and life-long care, ensuring continuity and appropriate adaptation of support as needs evolve.
Her clinical expertise spans a wide range of conditions, including upper and lower limb amputations, orthopaedic injuries, chronic pain, cancer, terminal illness and palliative care (including asbestos-related conditions). Gemma also works with individuals who have sustained spinal injuries (e.g. fractures) and a broad spectrum of neurological conditions, including stroke, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and dementia.
Many of Gemma’s clients present with multiple co-existing conditions, including mental health needs, internal injuries (such as stoma), mild to moderate brain injury, pressure sores and visual impairment. She applies a holistic approach to assessment, ensuring all areas of need are fully reflected in her recommendations.
As a Care Expert, Gemma draws on her past and current experience across acute, community and private settings to provide independent, clear, and evidence-based opinions on functional ability, therapy, equipment, adaptations and care requirements for adults with injuries or conditions arising from personal injury or medical negligence.
Employment Profile
Working within an integrated community team, Gemma conducts thorough assessments of individuals’ physical, emotional and environmental needs. She formulates clear, robust and proportionate recommendations for care packages, equipment provision and home modifications. These recommendations support both immediate and long-term functional outcomes. Gemma works collaboratively with multidisciplinary professionals, ensuring a coordinated and holistic approach to assessment, planning and service delivery.
Previously, Gemma worked as a Senior Specialist Occupational Therapist at a neurological rehabilitation centre in Llanelli, South Wales. In this role, she supported residents with recent brain injuries to progress through the next stages of their rehabilitation journey. Before qualifying, Gemma spent several years as a Support Worker delivering personal and practical care services to people with chronic illnesses and physical disabilities, further strengthening her understanding of long-term care needs.
Gemma takes a creative and analytical approach to problem-solving, demonstrating a strong ability to prioritise workloads and manage competing demands effectively.
Qualifications and Membership
- BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy, University of the West of England (2015)
- Health Care Professions Council (HCPC)
Career History
Present
Care Expert Witness
Jacqueline Webb & Co. Ltd
2023 to present
Band 6 Occupational Therapist
Integrated Community Team, Swansea Bay University Health Board
February to July 2023
Senior Specialist Occupational Therapist
The Disabilities Trust, Carmarthenshire
2017 to 2023
Band 6 Occupational Therapist
Carmarthenshire Community Team, Hywel Dda University Health Board
2015 to 2017
Band 5 Occupational Therapist (rotational posts)
Hywel Dda University Health Board