Carys Connolly qualified as an Occupational Therapist from Coventry University in 2004. She began her career in the NHS, working in acute hospital settings in Birmingham before moving into community mental health and community hospitals across Oxfordshire.

In 2013, Carys transitioned into adult social care, where she worked primarily at the initial point of contact for referrals and contributed to a project team focused on improving the person’s journey through services. She is passionate about raising the profile of Occupational Therapists in social care and inspiring others about the value and impact of the profession.

Carys is committed to bringing people together to problem-solve, recognising and valuing the unique skills and attributes each individual brings. She was appointed Principal Occupational Therapist for Oxfordshire in June 2024 and, in a short time, has already led through a CQC inspection, launched an adult social care podcast, and established an OT research group.