Whilst I have a healthcare background, specifically in clinical oncology as a therapeutic radiographer, I have not worked clinically since 1998. I have worked in Higher Education in health and social care since 1996, attaining a Post Graduate Certificate (PGC) in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education in 1997. I was initially teaching radiotherapy and clinical oncology, and then moved into palliative and end of life care. The academically accredited courses I now teach include dementia care, leadership in health and social care, a healthcare masters’ programme and foundation courses in care. I also provide a wide range of non-accredited learning opportunities in health and social care.

I am also committed to my own, and support others', lifelong learning. Education and continuing professional development is essential to ensure best and safe practice, maintain and improve quality, encourage personal and professional growth and development, enhance morale and attract and retain staff.

I provide a comprehensive education consultancy service: conducting training needs analyses, developing appraisal systems, course and programme development, delivery and evaluation. I have a particular interest in developing e-learning opportunities, both as standalone provisions and as part of a blended learning approach.

I provide management consultancy and education to the voluntary sector which includes Trustee assessment and training, including good governance, conflict of interest, chairing skills, etc., as well as a range of other topics applicable to the voluntary sector.

I work with public, private, voluntary and charitable organisations reviewing, developing, and implementing administration, management and quality assurance & audit systems and processes, and also developing strategies, business plans, practice standards, policy, guidelines and protocols.

I also develop administer and analyse surveys, e.g. client satisfaction surveys for public, private and voluntary sector organisations.

As an academic I wholeheartedly support the need for research - to gain new knowledge and understanding, to develop and test out innovative approaches to care and to better understand the needs of patients and staff with the aim of improving service delivery and outcomes.

I can help organisations develop and implement engagement involvement and communication strategies, strategic plans and operational plans.

I facilitate workshops, café and discussion events, stakeholder liaison meetings, lead and moderate focus groups and develop and deliver patient and carer education events.

The research I have undertaken on behalf of various organisations has primarily been qualitative with particular emphasis upon the needs of patients and carers in cancer, palliative and dementia care with regard to information, communication, support and education and I have some published work associated to these topics.