Bradley Powell, Trainee Clinical Psychologist at Camden and Islington NHS Trust, has used his passion for his profession to create a unique placement opportunity within the Doctorate of Clinical Psychology. He graduated in 2018 with a BSc (Hons) in Psychology and will qualify as a Clinical Psychologist (DClinPsy) in September 2024.
Recognising the potential for psychologists to influence public policy, Brad collaborated with the UK Parliament and the Royal Holloway聽University of London Doctorate of Clinical Psychology leadership team. This resulted in Brad helping to establish the first specialist leadership placement for trainee clinical psychologists within parliament and highlighting this pathway for future trainees to take up this opportunity. Brad was inspired to develop this initiative by the experience of meeting Dr Lisa Cameron, the first clinical psychologist to be elected as a Member of Parliament.
As well as supporting the development of this opportunity, Brad has also spoken in workshops and podcasts to share what he learned during his placement in Parliament. Through that experience, he is well-placed to advocate for evidence-based policies on behalf of service users and the wider psychology workforce.
Brad also contributed to equality, diversity and inclusivity outcomes during his placement through his support for the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Disability and the delivery a workshop to young adults with autism and learning disabilities, who were visiting with DFN Project Search, a one-year transition to work programme for young adults with a learning disability and/or autism spectrum conditions. These underline his commitment to making political systems accessible, understandable and inclusive to all groups.
Understanding the potential risks posed by unqualified practitioners, Brad also launched a national petition to address a critical gap in the regulation of the profession. His petition, which has gained over 12,000 signatures and received government attention, aims to prevent individuals without proper qualifications from using the psychologist title and offering professional services.
Through his work in Parliament and his public outreach efforts, Brad has become a role model for aspiring psychologists, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. His initiatives demonstrate that psychologists can influence policy and drive societal change, providing a powerful message of empowerment and possibility.
The Alumni of the Year Award judges were impressed by Brad鈥檚 innovative leadership and dedication to inclusivity. They commented: 鈥淏rad is unmistakeably passionate about psychology and the place it has in society. It is clear that he has had an impact, not just on his development but also on the wider community. His work extending towards inclusivity makes him a deserving recipient of the Advancing Knowledge Award.鈥�
Brad said: 鈥淚t is an honour to be named as one of 蜜桃AV鈥檚 Alumni of The Year and receive the Advancing Knowledge Award. This recognition highlights the importance of integrating psychology into public policy, and I am thankful for the support of my colleagues who contributed to making these initiatives possible. I am especially grateful to 蜜桃AV for the invaluable opportunities and experiences that set me on this path. My time at 蜜桃AV provided me with a solid foundation for my career in psychology, ultimately leading me to where I am today. I hope this award inspires future psychologists to pursue innovative paths to drive change in society.鈥�