Graduate lands prestigious role at national professional body

BAPO was established to encourage high standards of prosthetic and orthotic (P&O) practice. It is committed to Continued Professional Development and is the only UK body that represents the interests of P&O professionals and associate members.

Rhona joined the Centre for Doctoral Training in Prosthetics and Orthotics (CDT), based at the University of Salford, in 2019, the inaugural year of the program. The CDT is an initiative set up between the universities of Salford, Strathclyde, Southampton and Imperial College London to train and develop high class researchers with a direct interest in the P&O field. Rhona’s focus during her studies has been on post-Stroke gait analysis and the development of tools to aid in improving treatment pathways and timing of orthotic provision.

Rhona explained: “Now that I am coming to the end of my PhD studies, I am excited to look to the future and to bring my individual skills and experience into my next role as BAPO Clinical Standards Officer, a role that I am combining with a Clinical Skills teacher position at the University of Salford. 

“I am looking forward to engaging with stakeholders and clinical colleagues and continuing to champion the role of Prosthetists and Orthotists within the wider AHP community. I am sure that this role will bring many interesting challenges, but I am eager to join the BAPO team and be a part of the future development of my profession. 

Dr Gill Rawlinson, Director of Allied and Public Health at the University of Salford said: “We are delighted to be working with BAPO on this exciting new partnership. Here at the University of Salford we are committed to developing, growing and supporting the prosthetics and orthotic workforce at every level and we feel that working in collaboration with BAPO along with our other stakeholders is a positive step in influencing and growing the profession. 

“We are very excited to welcome Rhona to the team. She brings a wealth of experience, expertise and skills and know she will make a positive contribution to our students’ experiences and our team as well as supporting the work of BAPO.”

Dr Nicky Eddison, BAPO Vice Chair said: “I am delighted to welcome Rhona to the BAPO team.  Rhona will be an important member of our team, working on several vital projects for the Association.  I am looking forward to working closely with Rhona and making improvements for P&O.”