Joining Richardson Care in August 2020, after working in a female PICU (Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit), her role enables her to see the work of a psychologist from a different perspective. She says: “Richardson Care is very different to a large hospital setting. It has a much more homely feel and the care staff have built up in-depth knowledge and therapeutic relationships with the service users. This is often over a long period of time. They pay attention to the individual needs of the service user and it’s clear that they really care about them.”

Central to Meghan’s role is supporting the psychological well-being of the service users. She says: “My favourite aspect of my role is working directly with service users who have acquired brain injuries, especially on a one-to-one basis. I feel very fortunate that I’m supported to spend a lot of time with them, providing the therapeutic input that’s required. It’s very rewarding to see the progress that they make and it’s clear they appreciate it, which is lovely.”

In addition, Meghan is responsible for carrying out specific observations and neuropsychological assessments, contributing to multidisciplinary discussions about service users’ diagnosis, risk assessment, therapy and care plans.

Joining Richardson Care in the middle of the Coronavirus pandemic, Meghan also provides psychological support to the care staff in the home through reflective practice tools.

Meghan concludes: “I am thoroughly enjoying my role at Richardson Care. You need to be adaptive and think on your feet, but at the same time, I’m supported and encouraged to do the work to the best of my ability.”

Outside work, Meghan volunteers as a Support Worker at Northamptonshire Mind Crisis Café. She is also studying for a Masters in Clinical Applications of Psychology from Newman University, Birmingham, on a part time basis. To unwind and relax, Meghan enjoys walking her dog and her new puppy.

Qualifications and Training:

• BSc (Hons) Psychology – University of Manchester
• MAPA (Managing Actual or Potential Aggression) training
• Training to carry out and register COVID-19 testing
• Basic life support training
• In-house mandatory care support training
• Safeguarding