Caroline Currid BA(Hons), Dip OT, MSc.
I completed my BA(Hons) at Lancaster University in 1991, graduating with a degree in Economics and Sociology. After a period of voluntary work for The Shaftsbury Society and travelling, I began my Postgraduate Diploma in Occupational Therapy at the Royal London Medical Hospital in Whitechapel. In 1998 I qualified as an Occupational Therapist. I worked in a variety of settings in East and North London developing my skills and gaining experience. I worked with adults in the areas of Mental Health, Learning Difficulties and Neurology. I particularly enjoyed the community aspect of my work; supporting individuals to access college or work, developing life skills and independence.
Then in 2005, I moved away from London, initially to Worcestershire and then to Bristol, where I took on a role in a Community Paediatric Occupational Therapy team. I have worked with children and young people with complex physical, neurological and developmental needs; including Autistic Spectrum disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Sensory Processing Difficulties and Developmental Coordination Disorder. I really enjoyed working with individuals and their families using a client centred approach, to enable the development of skills, confidence and independence in all aspects of an individual’s life.
I have undertaken postgraduate training in Handwriting, Sensory processing and in Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)/Dyspraxia for both Children and Adults. I have a keen interest in research and evidence based practice and in 2011 completed an MSc in Occupational Therapy at London South bank University. As part of the programme of study I lead a research project on Occupational Therapy Intervention for young people with handwriting difficulties. I am currently pursuing research funding to undertake a further study focused on individuals with DCD.
In September 2014, I completed my advanced training in Dyspraxia/DCD assessment and treatment approaches with Dyspraxia UK to further develop my expertise in neurodiversity. I thoroughly enjoy working in this specialist area. Throughout all my work, I am passionate about supporting children and adults to develop their self-confidence and fulfil their potential in life.