BAPEN’s New Associate Communications Officer
Tarryn, can you tell us a bit about your background, and what first inspired your interest in dietetics and clinical nutrition?
My fascination with medicine and healthcare stem from my father, a GP and specialist surgical assistant. From there I developed a strong interest in nutrition science, and dietetics felt like the perfect combination of healthcare and nutrition. My first role was the redevelopment of a public hospital menu in Melbourne, Australia. It was fantastic to see my ideas through from inception to the kitchen and finally the patient’s plate.
After moving to England, I worked as a dietetic assistant across a range of specialities (gastro, surgery, older persons, stroke, critical care, respiratory / chronic respiratory failure), before completing my MSc in Dietetics. I have since worked in cardiology and cardiothoracics (under the cardiac critical care team), where I organise biannual nutrition link nurse training and support ‘MUST’. I have recently moved into a specialist role in respiratory and oncology.
Having gained experience across many specialities, how did you first become involved with BAPEN?
I first became aware of BAPEN in 2022 while working in the critical care team at St Thomas’ Hospital, where I was introduced to the organisation by a colleague. I was drawn to BAPEN’s strong commitment to nutrition in healthcare with an emphasis on providing voices for the multidisciplinary team (MDT), to champion excellent nutritional care. I have since submitted abstracts to BAPEN conference in 2024 and 2025 and was fortunate to have each selected. I then attended the conference both years, and what a great experience! My first submission was actually as a student, so hopefully this highlights that it’s never too early to get involved, build your network and learn from others in the clinical nutrition community.
When I saw the Associate Communications Officer role advertised, it felt like a natural opportunity to play a more active role within BAPEN. I have a background in writing (mostly food related!), and I am passionate about sharing evidence-based nutrition practice in an accessible and engaging way. I’m looking forward to helping showcase BAPEN’s work and collaborate across the wider nutrition community.
Why do you think it is important for professionals across clinical nutrition and the wider MDT to get involved with BAPEN?
Each part of the MDT brings unique, perspectives, knowledge and experience that help shape and strengthen BAPEN’s mission to ensure nutrition is recognised as an integral part of healthcare. By getting involved with BAPEN, we bring together different professions, share our expertise, learn from each other and continue to champion the importance of nutrition in patient care. Together, our voice is stronger.
Having engaged with BAPEN in several ways over the years, what are you looking forward to most about joining the team?
Stepping into a BAPEN role has been exciting and rewarding. Having previously engaged with BAPEN through conferences and educational resources, it has been interesting to see the work that goes on behind the scenes to support the clinical nutrition community.
Although I’m still new to the role, everyone has been very welcoming and supportive. It’s been a great opportunity to learn from experienced colleagues, gain a broader understanding of how BAPEN engages with members, and contribute to promoting the great work across professions. I’m looking forward to developing in the role and using this unique platform to inspire others to get involved.
