Rachel started her journey into the care sector working in residential care settings for older people and on inpatient mental health units as a health care assistant. After qualifying as a Social Worker, she worked in a Local Authority for 15 years supporting adults of working age with physical disabilities, including sensory impairments, older people, people living with addiction, and those struggling with both organic and functional mental health conditions.

Rachel spent some time working for the Department of Health and Social Care during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and more recently has taken on the role of Head of Social Work, Safeguarding and Mental Health for a national charity supporting both working age and older adults with assessment and care support.

Rachel’s background supports a comprehensive understanding of care needs and provision due to her wealth of experience and knowledge in the assessment processes under the Care Act, Mental Capacity Act, Mental Health Act and NHS Continuing Care Framework for both working age and older adults.

In her role as Expert Witness, Rachel can advise the court on care packages including 24-hour care packages, waking and sleeping nights, double-handed care requirements, and direct and indirect employment. She can offer insight and advice regarding Statutory Funding and is highly capable in regard to strategic reviews of service delivery and integrated systems.

Rachel has experience of court attendance and has undertaken an expert witness module at the University of Hertfordshire.