An occupational therapist (OT) is a professionally qualified therapist who is registered with the Health Professionals Council. They are governed by the College of Occupational Therapists. They can work in a number of different settings across health and social services with Children and Adults.
What is occupational therapy?
Occupational therapy enables people to achieve health, well-being and life satisfaction through participation in occupation. We aim to enable you to reach your maximum level of independence in all aspects of daily life.
The community occupational therapy service provides services to adults with physical or sensory needs.
Assessing your needs
To find out the best way to help you, we will carry out a needs assessment. We will visit your home and discuss with you what is causing you difficulties. You may want your carer, relative or another person present during your assessment
If you have a carer they are also entitled to have their needs assessed separately from yours. This is called a carers assessment.
During your assessment we will ask you:
- What your difficulties are
- What problems you are facing
- What help you currently receive
- What help you would like to receive
Following this assessment we will agree with you how we can assist you by creating a care plan.
Services we may offer you
We can:
- Give advice on everyday activities such as dressing, getting in and out of the bath, getting in and out of a chair, etc.
- Give advice about other organisations such as voluntary agencies or independent providers
- Provide practical assistance and advice to carers, to enable them to continue caring for individuals safely, within their own home environment.
- Where necessary and appropriate the OT can recommend equipment, adaptations, or disabled facilities grants to promote your independence and safety within your own home
- Provide specialist advice and equipment in relation to manual handling
- Working closley with other agencies in order to assist you to achieve the maximum level of independence, for example, health professionals, hospital staff, housing, care agencies and social workers.