Name: Melanie De Simone
Job Title: Specialist Paediatric Orthotist
What job(s) did you do before this?
I was a Pastoral Manager/Deputy Safeguarding Lead, and a member of a primary school leadership team. My main role was to support children and their families to be happy, healthy and safe in school, in their local community, and at home. I also taught Maths and English booster classes.
Briefly describe a typical day in your job role (tasks carried out)
Each day is a little different. Sometimes I visit patients in their school, at other times on the wards, or in the outpatient department. I design and fit devices called orthoses. The orthoses come in all different shapes, sizes and designs, such as helmets, spinal braces, knee braces, Ankle Foot Orthoses (sometimes known as splints), boots or insoles. The children I care for often have neuromuscular or musculoskeletal conditions, which can make movement more difficult or painful. I assess each child’s individual needs and decide which orthosis would work best for them, to achieve their goals or to make them more comfortable.
Have you had any special training/completed any qualifications?
I had to complete a 3-year degree, BSc (Hons) Prosthetics and Orthotics.
What would you say your key skills are? What type of person are you?
I’m empathic, friendly and a good listener. I enjoy being creative, problem-solving and helping others learn new skills.