Specialisms
- Complex orthopaedic injuries and fractures.
- Upper and lower limb amputations.
- Joint replacements.
- Spinal injuries such as fractures.
- Long term neurological conditions.
- Hand injuries.
- Associated mental health.
- Associated pain, burns and arthritic conditions.
- Associated brain injury.
- Associated hearing and visual loss.
- Associated internal injuries.
Clinical Currency Statement
As at September 2023, I am engaged in the role of Case Manager for Unite Professionals Ltd for an average of 80 hours per month. I also work as a Clinical Supervisor and Occupational Therapist for Inklusion Occupational Therapy Ltd for an average of 20 hours per month.
Signed
Specific Injuries Experience
Kara is a Case Manager and Occupational Therapist working predominantly with physical disability. She is experienced in identifying and managing the rehabilitation, care and equipment needs of individuals with significant orthopaedic injuries.
In her Case Management capacity Kara works with those who have suffered catastrophic orthopaedic injuries, including upper and lower limb injuries, amputations, spinal fractures and hand injuries. Her clients often require significant rehab input ongoing.
Many of Kara’s clients also have brain injury, internal injuries, or sensory loss alongside their orthopaedic injuries.
From her community care experience Kara is adept in working with those who have suffered longer term neurological disorders, such as MS, MND and Parkinsons. She is also confident with associated mental health disorders, pain, and fatigue which often accompany such injuries and conditions.
Employment Profile
Kara is a highly qualified independent Occupational Therapist and Case Manager, with over 10 years’ experience in providing high quality community care and support to individuals with complex physical and mental health needs. Her experience has predominantly been in Social Services and community rehabilitation.
In her current capacity as a Case Manager Kara supports those who have suffered significant injuries and advocates for their ongoing rehabilitation and support needs. As an independent practitioner she works directly with clients to support them in maximising independence and to achieve their goals. She has confidently built and developed a multidisciplinary approach to each client’s needs, sourcing appropriate treatment and input as required. Kara is adept in managing a busy schedule of independent therapy work.
Her previous experience in community services has provided a solid foundation and understanding around care, aids and equipment and larger housing adaptations. During her time with Oxford City Council Kara was the lead for housing, ensuring all minor and major adaptations met the client’s needs, whilst delivering the most cost-effective option. Her focus is very much about maximising the client’s potential and ensuring ongoing independence.
Qualifications and Membership
- BSc Hons Occupational Therapy, Oxford Brookes University, 2008.
- Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
- Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT).
- Case Management Society (CMSUK).
Career History
Present
Care Expert Witness
Jacqueline Webb & Co Ltd
2017-Present
Case Manager
Unite Professionals Case Management
2022
Private Clinical Supervisor and Mentor for Occupational Therapists and Case Managers
Inklusion Occupational Therapy Limited
2019-2022
Children and Young Person Disability Team – Clinical Supervisor and Mentor
Slough Borough Council Social Services
2017-2022
Children and Young Person Disability Team – Clinical Supervisor and Mentor
Reading Borough Council Social Services
2017-Present
Consultant Occupational Therapist
Inklusion Occupational Therapy
2015-2018
Practice Supervisor/Line Manager Occupational Therapist
Oxford City Social Services
2012-2015
Practice Supervisor/Line Manager Occupational Therapist
Reading Borough Council Social Services
2012
Specialist Stroke Rehab and Geriatric Ward – Band 6 Occupational Therapist
Abingdon Community Hospital, Stroke Unit, Marcham Road
2011-2012
Community – Band 6/7 Occupational Therapist
Community Occupational Therapy Service, Bath Road, Hounslow
2011
Neuro Rehab and Amputee Rehabilitation – Band 6 Occupational Therapist
Community Rehabilitation Centre, Langley House, Watford
2010
Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit – Band 6 Occupational Therapist
The Willows Inpatient Community Clinic, Hexham Road, Reading
2010-2011
Learning Disabilities Team – Research and Implementation Role – Band 6 Occupational Therapist
Community Learning Disabilities Service, Ridgeway Partnership, Banbury/Oxford/Aylesbury
2009-2010
Learning Disabilities Occupational Therapist – Band 6 Occupational Therapist
Community Learning Disabilities Service, Ridgeway Partnership, Banbury and Aylesbury
2008-2009
Inpatient and Community Generic Role – Band 5/6 Occupational Therapist
Prospect Park Hospital, Oakwood Unit, Reading
Publications
Literature Review –
Assistive Technology Project – Completed in April 2011 with Oxfordshire Learning Disabilities Team / Published in Oxfordshire Learning Disabilities Team Magazine.