I can’t imagine not doing this, not being part of everybody’s lives, and seeing how we can help them to achieve their goals.
I’m Paula and I’m the Chief Services Officer at Inspire. I started working here 11 years ago as an Occupational Therapist in the Multi-Sensory Rooms, an area which is very close to my heart.
I first qualified as an Occupational Therapist (OT) in 1994 and then went on to do my Masters in OT with the University of Exeter in the UK with my research focused on clinical reasoning skills.
Since then I have been lucky enough to work in several countries including the USA, the UK, Bulgaria, and now Malta. This has given me a huge range of experience in some very diverse settings.
I initially specialized as a senior therapist in the field of Neurology, and I then went on to become a Clinical Specialist and Clinical Lead OT. In this role, I was involved in the setting up of OT services and providing professional leadership in Accident & Emergency (A&E) and Supported Discharge Teams as part of the Winter Pressure initiatives which were designed to reduce waiting lists within the National Health Service (NHS). I also helped to set up OT services within a newly established Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Service.
During my career to date, I have been fortunate to attend numerous training courses, workshops and seminars and I have also published several papers in professional journals, magazines and newspapers.
Four years ago, I became the Chief Services Officer here at Inspire and I am very blessed to have an incredible team to work with, a team of people that really know their stuff, that are clearly very passionate and dedicated about what they do.
As CSO I lead all disability-related services and programmes. I bring together expertise and knowledge that is unique to the organization to ensure that the design, content and delivery of Inspire’s services are of the highest possible standard and quality. I also work hard to develop the services we provide and our support for the wider community, as well as always aiming to widen Inspire’s circle of influence.
And my amazing team all strive to ensure the quality of our services to ensure that each individual who comes here to Inspire has the best opportunities in life to help them to reach their potential.
My job is so rewarding. And I think that’s what keeps us going within the social field. I’ve been working in this field for 30 years now and I can’t imagine not doing this, not being part of everybody’s lives, and seeing how we can help them to achieve their goals.