Sharon Beattie

I qualified as an Occupational Therapist in 1995 and have, essentially, worked in the field of adult physical disability. I specialised in neurology and worked in stroke and community rehabilitation, general physical disability, including medical, cardiac and care of the older persons. I gained considerable experience assessing patients / clients in respect of their needs to enable safe discharge into the community, home adaptations, equipment, care needs and community rehabilitation.

I have worked in the NHS, independent practice and as a case manager, and have worked with clients who have sustained significant life changing injuries, including head injuries, spinal, orthopaedic and lower limb injuries, resulting in reduced independence and psychological distress including post-traumatic stress disorders.

I commenced work as an expert witness with Somek and Associates in 2007 and since then have written many medico-legal reports following instructions from both Claimant and Defendant Solicitors and Insurers. I have undergone training in the medico-legal process, and I am aware of my responsibilities under the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) pertaining to expert witnesses.

In 2011, I commenced a part-time role as an Associate Trainer for Somek & Associates and in 2016 was promoted to the role of Associates Development Lead for Quantum. My role involves training and developing therapists to undertake expert witness work in all aspects of the medico-legal process.