Katherine Martin

Grid Neurodisability Trainee

“I commenced neurodisability grid training in Nottingham one year ago having also completed my SHO and core registrar training here.  I had identified at an early stage that this was the career path I wished to follow and had no difficulty in accessing opportunities to strengthen my case.  Throughout the decision-making and application process I was supported wholeheartedly at all levels.

The neurodisability post is based in the Children’s Centre and the current commitment is two neurodevelopmental clinics and one special school clinic each week.  Consultant supervision is readily available for all of these clinics.  There are additional “special” clinics such as the weekly  botulinum toxin clinic and monthly Down’s Syndrome and autistic spectrum drop-in clinics, giving experience of working with a number of different consultants.  Therapists based at the centre are very happy to offer the opportunity to observe sessions or discuss their role as well as liaising about specific patients.

I am completing the paediatric neurology and child and adolescent psychiatry components on a sessional basis, attending clinics and meetings each week, and have had full support to enable me to do so.  I have also been able to gain experience in other relevant clinics such as orthopaedic, audiology and ophthalmology.  I have had ample opportunities and am encouraged strongly to participate in teaching, audit and other projects as well as attending a range of relevant internal and external courses.”