I am a Neurodevelopmental Specialist and graduated from the University of East Anglia in 2012 with a BA (Hons) in Social Work. I have many years of experience working with looked after children and young people including those with ASD and ADHD. I worked within a private Fostering Agency for 7 years supporting young people and Foster Carers. During this time I supported Foster Carers by attendance at children’s reviews, speech therapy, Child Adolescent Mental Health Service meetings (CAMHS), assessments of need (including ASD assessments/Education Health Care Plans) and liaison with the young person’s Social Worker. This work has enabled me to develop an extensive knowledge of a wide range of neurodevelopmental needs and diagnoses.

I have experience working in a day centre supporting adults with learning and physical disabilities. I provided one to one support to those service users with Downs Syndrome, ASD and Cerebral Palsy. I provided sessions such as music, arts, independent living skills and worked towards the goals of each individual.

I have also worked in the Education sector as a Safeguarding Officer. I provided a first point of contact for staff and students with safeguarding and wellbeing concerns, including mental health. During this time I attended child in need meetings, child protection conferences, core groups and worked closely with the Wellbeing Team. I also supported the team who were responsible for running courses for those students with ASD, ADHD and behavioural conditions. I would ensure those students were receiving the correct support and engage with families where appropriate. I am passionate about young people being supported to use their communication methods to share their needs and feelings.

I am qualified to administer and interpret the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule – Second Edition (ADOS-2). I am able to use this tool to work within a multi-disciplinary team to discuss our findings and form a diagnosis.