Sarah Dowd

Background

About Sarah Dowd

After completing my BA in Social Work, my career in palliative care began working as a Social Worker on the In-patient unit and in our community. I later became the Professional Lead SW at Princess Alice Hospice; supporting Social Work colleagues through reflective supervision, case management and development. Whilst working day to day on the IPU I provided psychosocial support, advocacy and care-planning to those approaching the end of their lives or moving to an onward place of care. I continue to hold the post of Safeguarding Lead, advising the organisation on all areas relating to safeguarding including policy and training for frontline workers, Managers and Trustees. I became the Head of In-Patient services in June 2022 providing operational leadership, development and ongoing holistic palliative care. In my current role as Head of Inclusion; through projects, education and user voice we focus on championing the rights of dying people who are often marginalised. This involves creating an environment where every individual—regardless of their background, identity, or circumstances—feels seen, valued, and supported as they live and die. During the COVID-19 pandemic I was a contributing author of ‘Out of the Shadows: The Role of Social Workers in Disasters’ (BASW and Critical publishing, 2022) reflecting on my experiences of working on the frontline supporting families. I am passionate about Social Work Education and I am a Practice Educator and ASYE Assessor; I continue to be a Practice Assessor and Guest Lecturer for Social Work at Kingston University. I provide clinical supervision individually for Nurses and non-clinical Staff and have a special interest in resilience and self-care. I have lectured on these subjects to Nursing, Social work and other Allied Health Professional Students at Kingston and Royal Surrey University and St George’s Medical School. I am a strong advocate for supporting employee and volunteer well-being, to build empathy and compassion and in turn positively influencing the Patient and Carer experience. I hold a certificate in action learning-Restorative Practice (Chichester University) supporting Colleagues and Families to move forward after conflict. I have a strong interest in the benefits of the arts on a personal and community level; I am a Trustee of YAT (Youth Action Theatre). YAT is a charity in Richmond upon Thames offering young people aged 16-25 the opportunity to acquire or enhance their acting and theatre skills for free and to promote well-being and a sense of community and belonging.