A sense of belonging and close-knit community: Q&A with Sadie Ridley, advanced practice sonographer

Can you give us some background on your radiography experience?

I trained in Canterbury, Kent, qualifying in 1989 with a diploma in diagnostic radiography. My early career began in Tunbridge Wells at the Kent and Sussex Hospital and Pembury Hospital, where I spent 18 months consolidating my general radiography skills and gaining experience in CT and fluoroscopy.

To broaden my clinical experience and develop within a large teaching environment, I moved to the Bristol Royal Infirmary for two years. In 1992, I was appointed as a research radiographer, working closely with the professor and senior lecturer in cardiovascular imaging. During this time, I was trained in vascular ultrasound and undertook the practical research for the department. I co‑presented research findings at both national and regional levels, contributed to audits, organised study days and lectured regularly to medical, dental and radiography learners.

I also worked closely with the University Department of Rheumatology, using X‑rays and DEXA scanning to assess medieval skeletal remains from local archaeological digs, as well as fossils, alongside supporting multiple postgraduate research projects. MRI formed another significant part of my research portfolio, including studies on post‑surgical breast contrast uptake, thyroid eye disease, MR Renography and 3D volume acquisition of equine tendons. I presented this work at European and national conferences, as well as regional meetings, and I was invited to lecture and participate in a debate on MRI field strength.

I also undertook a major study with a consultant radiologist and psychologist using DEXA to measure bone density in young women with anorexia. I presented the results at RSNA and at a national eating disorders conference, and I was invited to write an article for RAD Magazine based on our findings.

During this period, I successfully completed a BA (Hons) in healthcare.

In 1996, I began a new role as superintendent MRI research radiographer at the Bristol Oncology Centre. I was responsible for establishing an open MRI scanner for radiotherapy planning, as well as developing interventional MRI and paediatric anaesthetic services. This role involved close collaboration with consultants, physicists and Therapeutic Radiographers, and provided a challenging and rewarding opportunity to shape emerging clinical services. I also presented and published the findings.

After successfully completing this project, I worked part time in MRI while I had my two daughters.

I began my ultrasound career after returning to Kent in 2002 to complete my postgraduate qualification in medical ultrasound, qualifying in 2004. From the very beginning, I was drawn to the combination of technical skill, clinical problem solving and patient connection that ultrasound offers, and that blend has shaped my practice ever since.

For nearly two decades at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust, I worked across emergency, inpatient and outpatient settings. Much of my work was autonomous, particularly in the A&E ultrasound room, where I supported emergency and ward patients and carried out portable scans on ITU. I enjoyed the pace and unpredictability of acute care and valued being someone clinicians could rely on for clear imaging and calm, thoughtful input during busy shifts.

During my time there, I helped establish several new services, including ultrasound within the Surgical Assessment Unit and urgent pathways for emergency department attenders and GP‑referred DVT patients. Service development became something I genuinely enjoyed – identifying a need, shaping a solution and seeing the impact on patient flow and clinical decision making. Collaboration has always been central to my work. I regularly liaised with radiologists, ED clinicians, surgeons and nurses to ensure patients received the right scan and the right preparation. Teaching has also been a major part of my career, and I’ve trained trainee sonographers, radiology registrars, radiographers and clinicians. I particularly valued contributing to ultrasound chest study days at Maidstone Hospital and presenting regularly at BMUS conferences.

Alongside my NHS role, I worked as a bank sonographer at Fawkham Manor Hospital and Conquest Hospital, which gave me insight into GP‑based and community ultrasound services. I also participated in the Advance Practice Radiology Group, supporting the recognition and development of advanced practice roles.

In 2022, I joined Benenden Hospital, where I’ve been able to expand the ultrasound service further. I introduced liver elastography and developed a comprehensive liver assessment pathway, as well as advanced gynaecological and musculoskeletal ultrasound services. This work has led to presentations at BMUS, ECR and radiography careers events, and guest lecturing at the University of Brighton. I have also been working collaboratively with Charlene Wallace, senior lecturer in diagnostic radiography, and the University of Brighton to deliver sessions on advanced applications of ultrasound, including liver elastography and ultrasound physics. I also contributed to a webinar on liver elastography and authored the 2025 RAD Magazine article: ‘A Comprehensive Liver Assessment Service using Ultrasound and Elastography.’ One of the highlights of my recent work has been receiving the Doctify UK Unsung Heroes Award, which celebrates non-clinicians who deliver exceptional patient care, for the liver service – a meaningful recognition of a project I’m deeply proud of.

What, for you, are the best parts of being a radiography professional?

Autonomy, a sense of belonging within a close-knit community and collaboration with a wider multidisciplinary team are all essential to me. Feeling valued and respected is fundamental to delivering high‑quality care. The work of a radiographer is dynamic and engaging; no two patients are ever the same, and each case presents its own challenges and opportunities to learn from.

Radiography often feels like detective work. It requires a keen eye for subtle abnormalities, careful identification of pathology and a commitment to accuracy. This responsibility is carried out with empathy, patience and compassion, ensuring that every patient receives professional and considerate care.

Continuous learning is a core part of the profession. There is genuine satisfaction in discussing cases with colleagues, sharing insights and expanding knowledge together.