Mr Joseph Bradley
Joe has worked as an occupational therapist for 18 years, working in various clinical settings and locations in Manchester, London, and for the past ten years, Yorkshire. He achieved a Masters in Healthcare Research through the NIHR clinical academic pathway and this supported his ongoing application of evidence-based approaches in healthcare and engagement in research. He ultimately specialised in the field of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) which utilises the full range of occupational therapy skills in holistic and collaborative assessment, intervention and rehabilitation, recognising physical and mental health needs in wider societal and physical environments. He has been regularly recognised for excellence in healthcare in patient-nominated Healthwatch awards.
Joe has worked within NHS organisations and independent providers to the NHS and this has offered additional opportunities for taking on other policy and operational responsibilities. He has also acted on the Regional Royal College of Occupational Therapists Committee to support delivery of regional support, events and training.
At the outset of the Covid pandemic, given his clinical experience in post-viral fatigue and anticipating the potential for this problem, Joe wrote and published a brief guide for management of post-viral fatigue, sharing via social media, which was then taken up and developed into a guide in collaboration with the Royal College of Occupational Therapists and endorsed by the Intensive Care Society, and used as the basis for a more comprehensive guide written with the British Association for Clinicians in ME/CFS.
Reason for applying for the scheme
Joe wants to take the practical experiences and learning the fellowship offers alongside theoretical perspectives to broaden his horizons within health and health delivery while bringing the unique perspectives and experiences of occupational therapy and clinical work. He hopes that this new challenge will help him to build confidence and competence to take on leadership roles, continuing to transform services to be the best they can be for patients, carers and communities and to support the integration of health and other services to improve patient experience.
