Shelley Boardman-Hughes BSc. (1st Class Hons.) Occupational Therapy, BA (Hons.) Applied Social Sciences with Physical Education

I qualified as an Occupational Therapist in 2018 from the University of Cumbria. During my studies, I developed an interest in neurodiverse conditions, in particular developmental co-ordination disorder (DCD) widely known as dyspraxia in the UK. For my dissertation, I conducted a study into the potential impacts on caregivers of children with dyspraxia as there was little published research focussing on this subject.

With Dyspraxia UK, I completed specialist training in the assessment and treatment approaches for people of all ages with DCD. I enjoy working with children, young people and adults, to provide a high quality assessment of motor skills, sensory processing and produce a strengths-based report, to provide strategies to enhance every day life.

In addition to my Dyspraxia UK role, I am employed in an Occupational Therapy position, which is a NHS and social care role, at a rehabilitation centre in Blackpool. With all my clients, I employ a person-centred approach to assess and develop interventions to enable my people to maximise their potential and facilitate greater independence and confidence. Prior to this, I worked as a community Occupational Therapist facilitating people to develop new skills and/or alternative methods to complete daily activities. By employing these strategies and providing aids and adaptations where appropriate, clients were able to live safely in their homes. I also have significant experience of supporting people with mental health conditions to develop confidence, self esteem and coping strategies, in order to lead more fulfilling lives.

I am a current member of the British Association of Occupational Therapists (BAOT), the Royal College of Occupational Therapy (RCOT) and am registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). I also have full liability insurance.