Claire joined the STEPS team in April 2025. Originally from Ireland, she graduated with a degree in Sport and Exercise Science, but following working in this field with clients living with various physical and neurological conditions, Claire returned to the books to complete a Masters degree in Occupational Therapy from Queen Margaret’s University, Edinburgh, qualifying in 2012.
Claire’s first role was in a rotational post working in acute medical, surgical and orthopaedic wards on the Isle of Wight and quickly found her niche in a more rehab focused role. After a period of travel, she moved to New Zealand to work in community rehabilitation and has spent the last seven years working in Burwood Spinal Injuries Unit in Christchurch. Here, Claire has worked with clients from the earliest stages of their injury through their inpatient rehab to returning home and ongoing reviews years post injury. She has a strong interest in wheelchair and seating, upper limb rehab and identifying new ways to do activities to optimise functional performance and engagement.
When not at work, Claire can be found climbing some hills or chasing after a rogue toddler.