Lauren Dempsey BA (Hons) Occupational Therapy

I am an Occupational Therapist and operational leader with specialist expertise in Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD/dyspraxia), neurodevelopmental conditions, and children's participation in everyday activities. I have extensive experience working with children and young people with DCD and have supported many families through assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based intervention to improve functional skills, independence, confidence, and participation across home, school, and community environments.

 

My clinical practice is underpinned by specialist training in Cognitive Orientation to Daily Occupational Performance (CO-OP), Occupational Performance Coaching (OPC), ADOS-2, and Sensory Integration (Levels 1 and 2). Alongside my DCD work, I have significant experience supporting children with autism, ADHD, sensory processing differences, cerebral palsy, and other complex neurological conditions.

 

My professional experience spans NHS services, specialist schools, private practice, community settings, and international practice. This includes expertise in upper limb rehabilitation, postural management, specialist seating, and complex equipment provision, including leading postural assessments and supporting children with complex physical needs.

 

I currently work as Operational Lead for Children's Therapies within Children and Family Health Devon, where I provide operational leadership, service development, clinical governance, and workforce support across multidisciplinary teams. My responsibilities include quality assuring Occupational Therapy advice and reports for Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and providing training and professional development for Occupational Therapists delivering statutory SEND assessments.

 

Alongside my NHS leadership role, I have experience establishing and delivering an independent Occupational Therapy service, providing assessment, intervention, consultation, and training to children, families, schools, and organisations.

 

I am currently undertaking an MSc in Leadership and Healthcare and have been involved in the implementation of the Experts at Hand white paper and model within Devon, supporting collaborative approaches that strengthen outcomes for children, young people, and families.

 

I am registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and am a member of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT), with a commitment to evidence-based, person-centred practice and continual professional development.