From Brain Injury Linkworker to Principal Psychologist: Dr Philippa Birch’s Inspiring Journey

Tamara Piggott, Brainkind’s Inclusion and Social Change Coordinator, speaks with Dr Philippa Birch, Principal Psychologist in Brainkind’s Brain Injury Linkworker Service (BILS) team, to discuss Dr Birch’s professional journey from a Linkworker to a Principal Psychologist within the service.

 They discussed key experiences, challenges, and the essential qualities for the role and what advice Dr. Birch would give to aspiring Linkworkers. 

What is the Brain Injury Linkworker Service?

A brain injury can affect how a person thinks, remembers things, and manages their emotions or behaviour. This can make everyday life more challenging, especially for those in the criminal justice system, where brain injuries often go unrecognised. 

Brainkind’s award-winning Brain Injury Link Worker Service identifies and supports individuals with brain injuries in prisons and other justice settings. Linkworkers play a crucial role in this by assessing people’s needs, providing strategies to help them cope, and ensuring they get the right support. They also work closely with prison staff and other professionals to improve understanding and rehabilitation opportunities. 

By providing tailored support, the service helps reduce reoffending, improves the wellbeing of people in the criminal justice system with a brain injury and ensures they get the help they need to move forward. 

Dr Birch’s journey of growth and achievement

Dr Birch, who has recently returned to the Brain Injury Linkworker Service as a Principal Psychologist in the clinical team, some years after working as a Linkworker, reflects on her career progression. Tamara notes is not only an impressive personal achievement but also a significant gain for the team 

“It’s been a long road, but looking back, I can see how every step -from being a Linkworker to now a Principal Psychologist- has shaped my approach and deepened my understanding of rehabilitation and psychology.” said Dr Birch. 

She emphasised the importance of hands-on experience in developing her skills, explaining: 

“Working as a Linkworker was invaluable. It gave me direct insight into patient needs, how services develop, and how to navigate the complexities of interconnecting systems. That foundation was crucial when transitioning into clinical psychology.”

The reality of the profession

Reflecting on her expectations of the role versus the reality, Dr Birch shared that the position has evolved beyond what she initially envisioned. 

“I thought I’d just be working one-on-one with clients, but the reality is so much bigger. It’s not just about individual therapy- it’s about working with entire systems, understanding different staff structures, and adapting to ever-changing policies.” 

She noted the complexity of navigating different staff structures and healthcare systems, particularly in roles that require different approaches across regions, such as Wales and England. 

“The differences between systems can be challenging. Sometimes, it feels like untangling a web, but you are able to be creative in the way you approach each individual and the way you engage with each service setting. At the heart of it all is ensuring the best care for individuals, and that’s what keeps my mind creative, and keeps me going.” 

You as a Linkworker

After the success of the initial programme across England and Wales, we are expanding into seven new locations across the North West. This means we will be able to support even more individuals with brain injuries within the criminal justice system, and we need more passionate, caring people to join our team to make this possible. 

If you’re looking for a career where you can make a genuine difference in the lives of people who are often overlooked in society, then this could be the perfect role for you! 

What qualities does a Linkworker need?

For those considering a career as a Linkworker, Dr Birch outlined key skillsand attributes that make you well suited for the job: 

• Compassion – “You need to care, and not just in a surface-level way. You must be genuinely invested in people’s well-being.” 

• Resilience – “This work can be tough. You need to be able to handle challenges and keep going even when things don’t go as planned.” 

• Confidence – “Even if you don’t feel confident right away, you need to be willing to grow into it. The ability to project confidence helps both you and the people you support.” 

• Enthusiasm & Willingness to Learn – “Things change all the time in this field. If you come in with an open mind and a drive to learn, you’ll go far.” 

She emphasised that while professional skills- such as database management, intervention techniques, and psychometric testing- can be taught, it is the soft, personality-based skills that truly define a great Linkworker. 

“I can teach you how to manage a database, but I can’t teach you how to be compassionate. That has to come from the Linkworker.”

The power of adaptability: Ask, Understand, Adapt

Tamara highlighted that the qualities Dr Birch described align with Ask, Understand, Adapt—a core framework of the BILS training programme.  

This programme equips Linkworkers with the skills needed to effectively engage with people supported in prison and probation and respond to complex situations. Dr Birch agreed, adding that adaptability is at the heart of creativity and problem-solving in the role. 

“You have to be able to think on your feet. Every day is different, and every person you meet will have unique challenges. Being adaptable is what makes the job so rewarding.”

Looking ahead

As the conversation wrapped up, Tamara thanked Dr. Birch for sharing her journey and for helping to inspire the next generation of Linkworkers. 

Dr. Birch reflected: “I love being back. It feels like coming full circle, and I hope my experience can help others who are just starting out.”

Her words are a powerful reminder that a career as a Brain Injury Linkworker is more than just a job—it’s a chance to change lives, including your own. For those considering this path, developing the right skills and mindset isn’t just about strengthening an application; it’s about preparing for a career where every conversation, every intervention, and every connection has the potential to transform someone’s future. 

Could this be the journey that changes yours? Email elizabeth.wilce@brainkind.org to learn more about upcoming opportunities in this service.