The OT Magazine – March / April 2019

THE

MAGAZINE Issue 27 | Mar/Apr 19 | Improving Independence

YOGA Parkinson’s & We explore how yoga can help patients with Parkinson’s gain both balance and confidence

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PRO DUCTS

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RECRUITMENT & T RAINING

We’re coming back to Naidex!

We’re excited to be exhibiting at this year’s Naidex show after the success we’ve had in recent years! As well as our fantastic WheelAble folding shower chair we’ll also have the full range of accessories there for you to see.

Come along to stand N1120 and take a look!

We’re also offering a 5% discount and free carriage on every chair bought at the show!

www.ospreyhealthcare.com - 01257 425 623 - sales@ospreyhealthcare.com

About us

The Team

Editor: Rosalind Tulloch Staff Writers: Colette Carr and Katie Campbell Designer: Fionnlagh Ballantine Production: Donna Deakin Marketing: Amie Reilly Sales: Jacqui Smyth Contributors: Kate Sheehan, Adam Ferry, Firas Sarhan, Louise Berger, Allie Lewis, Manjinder Sidhu

Get in touch 2A Publishing Ltd, Caledonia House, Evanton Dr, Thornliebank Industrial Estate, Glasgow, G46 8JT 0141 465 2960 ot-magazine.co.uk The OT Magazine @ot_magazine

Disclaimer

The OT Magazine is published by 2A Publishing Limited. The views expressed in The OT Magazine are not necessarily the views of the editor or the publisher.

Reproduction in part or in whole is strictly prohibited without the explicit written consent of the publisher. Copyright 2019 © 2A Publishing Limited. All Rights Reserved. ISSN-2056-7146

This month’s issue...

W

e can all appreciate the benefits of yoga; its calming and restorative powers can transform your mindset and offer you the time out of a fast-paced life that you really need. However, did you know that it could also help patients with Parkinson’s? A student in Colorado has completed a study that explored how yoga can reduce the risk of falls in patients with Parkinson’s, find out more about this on page 14.

An OT-led insomnia clinic at the Royal Surrey County Hospital is transforming the lives of patients experiencing sleep problems. We spoke to two of the OTs involved in the clinic and found out how the service has evolved and how they are successfully helping people get back to achieving a good night’s sleep.

Chris Buckingham is an OT-turned-designer who recognised a need for more products to help patients remain independent. She embraced her creative side and embarked on a journey of product design, find out more about her innovations on page 46.

This issue is packed with new innovations to help keep your patients independent and we also have a competition for one lucky OT to attend the Posture and Mobility Group (PMG) Conference, turn to page 41 to find out to enter to win this great prize.

We will be attending Naidex on 26-27 March at NEC, Birmingham.

Visit us on stand N12032 to tell us about your work and share your passion for OT with us, we may even have some goodies for you!

The OT Magazine, Editor

SUBSCRIBE TODAY Further your career and enhance your CPD by subscribing to The OT Magazine

Subscribe for only £9.99 Go to: ot-magazine.co.uk/subscribe -magazine.co.uk

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What’s inside Heading here

7 What’s New? Bringing you up to speed with all the latest news from the healthcare sector

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13 Kate Sheehan Our columnist asks: “what is an expert and are we one?”

14 26 Sleepless Nights 14 Yoga and

Parkinson’s How yoga could be the perfect intervention for Parkinson’s disease

19 Product Focus The latest must-have products on the market

23 OT Approved Find out what has had the seal of approval from Adam Ferry this month

25 Day in the Life Meet Amanda Rendle-James who works with clients with neurodevelopmental conditions and mild to moderate learning disabilities

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Meet the OT brains behind the Insomnia Clinic

31 Peace of Mind The new technology that keeps an eye on those who are susceptible to seizures during the night

35 Product Focus More latest must-have products on the market

41 Competition Find out how you could attend the PMG Conference for free!

43 Smart Homes CETEC discuss supporting elderly individuals to live at home

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Heading What’s Inside here 59 Being Mindful Learn about the new government scheme to promote mindfulness in schools

62 Paediatrics

Products

Innovative products for your younger clients

46 Natural Problem

Solvers

Meet the OT-turned-product designer who is using her OT experience and creativity to improve independence

49 Robot Care Samsung show just how important robotics will become in the homes of the future

50 Recapturing the

Beauty of the Body

Product

Focus

Meet the woman on a mission to transform ostomy bags

53 Gyro Head Control The revolutionary headset that allows users to control their powered wheelchair and computer with the slightest movement

56 Today’s the Day

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the Teddy Bears Have Their Checkups Check in to an Irish university’s teddy bear hospital

65 The Drop-In

Chat Cafe

Discover the drop-in counselling café with no waiting list that is combatting suicide in Lanarkshire

68 A Technological

Revolution

Just how much can technology really help OT’s workload?

71 University Mental

Health Day 2019

The day devoted to keeping your mental health in check while dealing with the pressures of uni

74 Does CPD Reflect

Holistic OT?

CPD is described as a holistic commitment – is it similar to the OT process?

76 Student Focus OT student Manjinder Sidhu shares how her first placement opened her eyes to the reality of OT

81 Events Calendar Essential dates for your diary

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Restoring mobility and independence.

Visit us at 26 & 27 March 2019 NEC Birmingham

Discover the innovative rotational chair bed, the Rota Pro, Pro from Apex and experience the ease of getting in and out of bed without hoists or care assistance.

Sleeping in a bed, it’s Your Right!

Our very own Mike Halford will be speaking about the situations faced by individuals with different conditions, their access to different types of beds and mattresses, and the potential to reduce care costs with the use of certain bed types.

THEATRE 5 Wednesday 27th March at 14.45 -15.15

simple • comfortable • dignified

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Email: enquiry@apexmedicalcorp.co.uk

We explore what’s happening in the healthcare sector, from new products and services to inspirational stories

What’s new?

A&E OT TRIAL THAT SAVES MONEY RECEIVES FUND BOOST A Moray hospital is reaping the benefits of utilising occupational therapy in patient flow, announcing results of less unnecessary admissions and an eyewatering more than £1.7million saved.

SUFFOLK TO OFFER

NEW OT

APPRENTICESHIPS Suffolk has been announced as one of the first areas in the country to develop brand new OT degree apprenticeship positions.

The scheme, trialled for two years in the A&E department of Dr Gray’s Hospital in Elgin, has been hailed as such a success that it has received new funding. The sum will go towards employing and creating a new role in the shape of a fulltime occupational therapy position dedicated to “improving timeliness and quality of patient care from arrival to discharge.”

Suffolk County Council Beccy Hopfensperger, cabinet member for adult care, told East Anglican Daily Times: “We have seen real challenges across the board in recruiting trained occupational therapists, and with this ground-breaking new initiative, we are working in collaboration with our health colleagues to address these challenges.

NEW NHS ALLIANCE WELCOMES

“We are working jointly with our colleagues in health to develop our apprenticeship programme.”

ANNOUNCEMENT OF ADDITIONAL SOCIAL PRESCRIBERS New NHS Alliance welcome NHS England’s commitment to employ 1000 additional Social Prescribers to the NHS. The move marks recognition at the highest level that non-medical practices and solutions can address some health problems.

Despite the victory, New NHS Alliance has now called on NHS

England to take it further and recognise the health benefits that come when people and communities are helped to solve their own problems. Health Creation is a tried and tested approach where professionals and people work together and focus on what matters to people and the community.

The programme is set to provide an alternative route into an occupational health career, supporting those who cannot access university education.

More articles on next page

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What’s

new?

COULD YOU WIN THE

£1000

COSYFEET OT AWARD?

COSYFEET ARE TAKING APPLICATIONS FOR ANNUAL OT AWARD Entries are now being invited for the Cosyfeet Occupational Therapy Award 2019. This £1000 award is open to qualified OTs or OT students planning to undertake voluntary work, a work placement or research, either in the UK or abroad. The winner’s application should demonstrate that their chosen project will develop their professional knowledge and skills while benefitting others.

The Award is designed to assist with costs associated with the applicant’s selected project, which could

This £1000 award is open to qualified OTs or OT students planning to undertake voluntary work, a work placement or research, either in the UK or abroad.”

include expenses for equipment, travel or living.

If you would like to apply for the Cosyfeet Occupational Therapy Award, visit cosyfeet.com/otaward for further information and to enter online before the closing date of 26 April 2019. The winner will be requested to submit a report and photographs of their experience, and to be included in Cosyfeet publicity relating to the award.

FREE CPD AT NAIDEX REGISTER FOR YOUR FREE DISABILITY EVENT TICKETS For professionals in the healthcare and rehabilitation sectors, it is essential to stay up to date with the progress in your respective field. Being able to apply the latest techniques and make use of the latest technology can make a huge impact on your daily life and that of your patients.

That is why Naidex absolutely has to be in every professional’s calendar.

As the leading event in Europe dedicated to the development of the health, care and rehabilitation sectors, the show will gather over 15,000 visitors looking for the most recent advancements the industry has to offer.

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With 350 exhibitors, the Moving and Handling Lab, masterclasses and topical panel debates, there will be a tremendous amount to see over two days. Best of all, their worldclass seminar schedule of over 250 speakers is fully CPD accredited.

Come join The OT Magazine at stand N12032 and get an insight into the future of the industry as well as free CPD points! Register for your free ticket at naidex.co.uk on 26-27 March 2019 at Birmingham’s NEC.

FUTURE HEALTHCARE 2019 The Right Honorable Patricia Hewitt, former secretary of state for health is confirmed to give a welcome address at Future Healthcare Exhibition and Conference at Olympia on 18 March 2019.

The two-day event is organised in association with UKIHMA, a UK government trade promotion organisation jointly funded by the Department for International Trade, the Department of Health and NHS England. The only B2B event in the UK to showcase healthcare products and services across all sectors to an audience of global buyers, it is the UK’s largest international exhibition and conference.

Future Healthcare gathers more than 4,000 attendees from 65 countries for two days of education, cross border purchasing and deal making.

Experiencing 350 brands from

healthcare providers and training establishments to equipment and product suppliers and technology experts, visitors can expect to see the very latest products and services.

Also featuring is the Thrive Wearables Zone - a showcase of the latest advancements in wearable technology and the Health Tech Theatre - hosting a series of 10-minute presentations from pioneers of exciting innovations.

Over 60 expert speakers will take to the stage to address the central theme of ‘embracing innovation in healthcare delivery.’ Sessions will address the impact of Brexit on the current healthcare landscape, helping SMEs access and work with the NHS and how to scale up innovation. Book your delegate passes at futurehealthcareuk.com/ registerToAttend.php.

Looking for an OT job?

ot-magazine.co.uk/jobs

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Why Size Matters.

Have you ever been in the unfortunate position of wearing a pair of shoes that don’t fit?

SIZES to fit you

You shift your feet around, you might try an in-sole, or even stick something down the front; but nothing can quite make them feel right. Later you decide to try again, and you get a pair that are specifically fitted to your feet, and suddenly the sun starts shining and all is well with the world.

Our bodies don’t come in a ‘one size fits all’ shape – so why do we think that a chair or sofa would be any different to shoes when it comes to choosing them?

A relatively unknown side effect of sitting on chairs and sofas that don’t fully support our body, is that our posture can be severely affected. Occupational Therapist, Julie Jennings Dip COT HCPC explains: “Many of us have developed what is often referred to as a “Comfort Posture”.

This term refers to the most comfortable position we adopt in a particular seat. If our usual furniture does not provide adequate postural support then our comfort posture may be detrimental to our overall health and fitness, leading to, at best, aches and pains, and at worst, damaged joints and deformity.”

Choosing a chair or sofa that is the correct size and shape for you is one way of ensuring that the way you sit will bring you long term benefits and help avoid the complications associated with poor posture. At HSL, their 50 years of handcrafting specialist furniture and finding the perfect chair for the many customers who visit each year has given them a unique perspective on comfort.

They have learnt the unique ways in which people sit, sleep, stand and move. HSL have spoken to people about the impact their lifestyle has on their bodies, where and why they ache, and what helps relieve their discomfort.

HSL want to make sure that their customers get the absolute perfect fit. This is why all of their chairs, sofas and beds come in multiple sizes. Visit your local comfort store to discover your true comfort.

Fully trained Comfort Specialists are available in-store to show you their Occupational Therapist approved 7-Point Seating Assessment™, personalised to you.

7-Point Seating Assessment™

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST APPROVED

NECK & HEAD SUPPORT

All HSL chairs & sofas are designed for easier sitting & rising

When the neck is supported correctly the head is not forced forward or too high above the back of the chair.

THE CORRECT SEAT DEPTH FOR COMFORT

LOWER BACK SUPPORT

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If the depth of the seat is correct, the calf should gently kiss the leg rest or allow for a flat hand to be placed between the calf and leg rest.

The lumbar area; the natural curve in the back, is supported by the chair.

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HIP POSITION Bottom fits into the back of the seat.

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ARM POSITION Elbows to fingers must be in contact with the arm of the chair.

The forearm should be supported with the shoulders in their natural resting position.

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THE RIGHT SEAT HEIGHT FOR COMFORT

GETTING THE WIDTH RIGHT

If the seat height is correct the feet will be flat on the floor.

The correct width is vital to help spread the weight across the seat.

The entire upper leg should also be fully supported so that the knee almost forms a right angle.

It provides pelvic stability and prevents leaning to one side.

To find out more about HSL’s exclusive 7-Point Seating Assessment™ visit one of their 59 comfort stores, call 01924 507050, visit www.hslchairs.com or book a free Home Visit.

Quote OTMDPS

Fit to work

Get drivers back on the road sooner by recommending the osteopath-designed Morfit custom-fitting lumbar support.

25% of all adults suffer from lower back pain*. With over 40 million drivers in the UK**, that means 10 million people – many of them your clients – who might be distracted or even prevented from driving.

Morfit provides long-term reduction in pain. Using air-set technology, Morfit moulds itself to fit the vehicle seat to the driver, then holds that shape to provide solid, lasting support. Support that makes driver and their vehicle fit for work.

For more information visit morfit.co.uk or phone 07757 541144.

*

RHMHRA Class 1 Medical Device.

The Prevalence of Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review of the Literature from 1996 to 1998. Walker, Bruce F. ** Statistical releases Department of Transport March 2018.

Kate Sheehan Director, The OT Service

The OT Service provides high quality advice, consultancy and training to manufacturers, retailers and service providers. It also provides occupational therapy clinical services in housing and equipment to case managers, solicitors and private individuals via its handpicked network of occupational therapists.

For more info email kate@theotservice.co.uk

What is an expert AND ARE WE ONE? It is an interesting question; when do we become an expert in our chosen field of clinical practice? Is it: • The number of years of being qualified?

• The number of years in a specialism?

• What read or completed research we have completed in a particular field?

• Our ongoing CPD and personal development in our chosen field?

I would suggest that expert advice or help is given by someone who has studied a subject thoroughly or who is very skilled at that particular clinical role, which on reflection is a combination of the above.

Often in private practice we are asked for an ‘expert’ to assist with a clients case, so what is the formal definition of an expert? According to the Collins English Dictionary it is, “a person who is very skilled at doing something or who knows a lot about a particular subject”.

Our professional standards also give us some insight into what is expected of us. For example, the HCPC Standards of Proficiency states a therapist must be, “able to practise safely and effectively within their scope of practice” and “know

the limits of their practice and when to seek advice or refer to another professional”. So, as therapists we must know our level of expertise and work safely within those limits.

It is vital that we constantly review our level of competency and keep up to date with continuing professional development. This is particularly important in independent practice, when we can be asked, requested or cajoled into doing work outside our expert skills.

Can a therapist with a plethora of mental health experience post qualification, undertake an expert seating assessment? Could a therapist working in neurological rehabilitation complete a complex children’s housing modification?

Could a housing specialist undertake an acute mental health assessment?

I would suggest not as they are working outside their scope of practice. So we need to be mindful of what we can and cannot do within our areas of expertise, know our limits and challenge those who may suggest we have the skills when we know we do not.

Remember that none of us know everything and part of being an expert is knowing when you don’t know, but know where to go for advice.

This does not stop us changing career direction and moving from one specialism to another, however we must remember that we need the correct supervision or mentoring on moving, to give ourselves the appropriate time to refresh our knowledge, learn new skills and develop our understanding before we can become an expert.

Enjoy the journey to becoming an expert and never forget that we learn everyday, whether you are 21 and embarking on your career or 61, and still developing your skills and expertise.

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Yoga and Parkinson’s

Yoga and PARKINSON’S

A new study on the combined interventions of occupational therapy and yoga could provide an ideal solution for patients living with Parkinson’s disease.

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aura Swink, a PhD student at Colorado State University, has completed her occupational therapy research study – an exploration of how yoga can help reduce the risk of falls in patients with Parkinson’s disease.

In collaboration with a local athletics club in the neighbouring Fort Collins, Swink combined her academic practice of occupational therapy with the holistic practice of yoga on patients with the disease.

Her research study follows a similar one conducted by her doctorial advisor, Arlene Schmid, who in 2014 undertook research on the impact of a combination of yoga and occupational therapy on patients who had experienced a stroke. This study also highlighted how the combination of factors garnered a positive result and reduced the risk of falls.

Speaking to the university’s newspaper, Swink said: “My advisor, Dr. Schmid, first developed the Merging Yoga and Occupational Therapy (MY-OT) program—a fall risk self-management program for individuals with chronic stroke.

She had discovered that yoga improved balance (but not fall risk factor management), and group occupational therapy improved fall risk factor management (but not balance).

“I developed the MY-OT intervention for stroke and [Swink] then worked with experts and people with Parkinson’s to modify it to be more appropriate for people with Parkinson’s disease,” Schmid told The Collegian.

After assessing potential volunteers for the study in August 2018, she began the intervention in October 2018, having participants undertake an hour of yoga and an hour of group occupational therapy twice a week for eight weeks in a conference room donated by the owner of the Raintree Athletic Club, which easily facilitated the move from yoga class to occupational therapy.

“In the yoga part, Jennifer Atkins

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led the class through guided breath work and graded postures from seated, standing and supine positions,” Swink told the Collegian.

“I am a registered occupational therapist and I designed the occupational therapy part to include some lecture, discussion and activities to help identify and manage risk fall factors.”

Swink hopes that the results of the study – which she has now begun to analyse – will help alleviate what she calls the “devastating consequences” of falls in Parkinson’s patients, while helping to improve patients’ quality of life.

“What I can share is that participants loved the social component of the program and were very motivated to help each other and share insight on what they have changed to reduce fall risk,” she told the Collegian.

Swink is one of many to tackle Parkinson’s with yoga. In 2012, Kaitlyn P. Roland completed her doctorial research at the University of British Columbia in Canada, which saw her measure changes in daily muscle activity and consequences for physical function and frailty.

In a blog post she wrote for the Michael J Fox Foundation for

Yoga and Parkinson’s

While yoga not only improves balance as a whole, it also reduces the fear of falling, which is vitally important in keeping people with Parkinson’s disease active

Parkinson’s Research, she detailed how the different aspect of yoga can help improve different areas of effect regarding the disease. While yoga, she writes, has become synonymous with the act of holding a static pose and performing controlled breathing – called asanas in yoga terminology – that is only one aspect of a larger yoga framework, which also includes aspects of spirituality, chanting, and philosophy.

Roland notes that, at time of writing, a number of studies examining how yoga can help those with Parkinson’s, which focus on a number of key areas.

“The issue of mobility has important implications for falls in PD [Parkinson’s disease]. Yoga participation can improve functional mobility and how a person with PD walks. Standing yoga poses target the hip extensor, knee extensor and ankle plantar flexor, which support center-of-mass during walking and may improve overall stability,” she writes.

She calls balance training, which is a necessary component of the study of yoga, important in therapeutic approaches to Parkinson’s, as per the studies, 40% of nursing home

admissions are preceded by a fall.

While yoga not only improves balance as a whole, it also reduces the fear of falling, which is vitally important in keeping people with Parkinson’s disease active both in terms of their health and within their community.

Yoga can also assist greatly in strength training and the improvement of postural stability.

Yoga, she writes, requires isometric contraction of one muscle group to stabilise the body when performing the postures associated with the activity, and might also mimic isokinetic contractions when moving from one pose to another, which is the principle behind yoga improving strength and control within the body.

The most obvious benefit of yoga is flexibility: it relies on an extremely full range of motion, which combats rigidity in those with Parkinson’s.

Not only that, but yoga is a terrific intervention for the stooped posture which is traditionally associated with the disease due to its work on the hip, spine and shoulders: studies show an increase in spinal flexibility, a more upright posture, and greater hip movements which may help with those who walk with a shuffling gait.

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Yoga and Parkinson’s Roland also writes: “The psychosocial benefits associated with yoga are important for disease management, as they are not often addressed with conventional dopaminergic therapy. Yoga can offer group support, improved confidence and self-efficacy.

The calming effect of yoga (by enhancing parasympathetic output) may lessen perceived stress, enhance relaxation, and benefit sleep in PD.” With both these points and the future outcome of Swink’s study in mind, yoga could prove to be an ideal intervention for not only improving the overall health of patients with Parkinson’s, but for instilling a sense of confidence within those who live with the disease.

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For many with Parkinson’s, the fear of falling is a significant hinderance to their daily lives, preventing them from taking part in activities within their communities and remaining in the best of health.

By implementing strategies which can improve balance and remove fear of falling through a combination of occupational therapy and yoga, patients with Parkinson’s disease could be able to live fuller, happier and ultimately healthier lives through the power of holistic intervention.

For many with Parkinson’s, the fear of falling is a significant hinderance to their daily lives, preventing them from taking part in activities

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Product FOCUS Every issue we bring you the latest products from across the market to help you improve the lives of your clients.

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HANDICARE RETURN7500I

A quality product trusted over decades, the ReTurn7500i is one of the most popular assistive transfer devices. The ReTurn stimulates the users’ natural pattern of movement during sit-to-stand transfers, strengthening their muscles and functional ability - ideal for use in a rehab unit or at home with the help of only one carer.

01384 405792 | handicare.co.uk 2

COMBI POWER WHEELCHAIR

The new lightweight Combi Power wheelchair with its easily detachable drive unit is light enough to lift and transport and offers the ability to switch the joystick control from the armrest to the back in seconds, offering a new level of independence for both the user and attendant as it can be operated by both. Heaviest part 15kg and user weight 23st.

0333 414 1881 cavendishhealthcare.co.uk

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Product Focus

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ULTRA LS300

Precision Rehab is launching the ground-breaking ULTRA LS300 powerchair which has been designed by NHD (Nordisk Helse Design), the team behind the world-famous Balder Finesse. The minimum floor to seat height of just 300mm to 600mm is the lowest ever available on a powerchair and the user can also drive their vehicle from the LS300.

Visit stand N1100 at Naidex 01256 300111 | precisionrehab.co.uk 4

THE WHEELABLE

The WheelAble shower/commode chair is the must have travel companion for the 21st century.

Whether it’s a weekend away in the car or a long-haul flight to far destinations it can be easily transported. Lightweight and compact the WheelAble is made of strong moulded plastics designed to be folded away in six super simple steps Visit stand N1120 at Naidex 01257 425 623 | ospreyhealthcare.com

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SWING BASIN

The swing basin from Ropox has been designed to meet the needs of the user and carer. The basin can be easily moved to within easy reach of the person on the toilet or in their wheelchair as it can swing and rotate 180° and the oval design allows it to be accessed from the front or side.

Visit stand N11057 at Naidex 07831 401118 | ropox.com

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Product Focus

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TROJA 2G

The Troja 2G is available with resistant and single sided brake options, comes with a sevenyear warranty and colour options including: pink, grey, silver, capri blue, red and white. Available in sizes, small and medium, standard features include the Comfort Soft (PUR) quick release wheels, ergo grips and a matching padded shopping bag.

Visit stand N5081 at Naidex 0115 8465406 | topro.co.uk 7

ULTIMATE STAIRLIFT

The new Ultimate curved stairlift by Platinum takes innovation to the next level with unique features including first step start, 75° incline, linked seat and footrest, power swivel to 25 stone (160kg), multiple bend radii, adjustable chair with choice of controls. The Ultimate is the stairlift of the future.

01535 631 177 | platinumstairlifts.com 8

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MULTIFUNCTIONAL SHOWER SEAT

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This waterproof seat can be used anywhere in a bathroom or wet room and even outside due to the water-resistant cover. It is lightweight and comfortable and the base has a non-slip cover to keep the seat steady on any surface. The stretch net around it offers a handy place to store shampoo, shower gel and other accessories.

0800 772 3771 | designed2enable.co.uk

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Specialist Healthcare Seating We are a dynamic and established bespoke seating company, with a reputation for providing innovative and extensive expertise within the healthcare marketplace.

We engineer and manufacture our chairs in Wales using a broad range of mechanisms, fabrics, features and accessories.

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visit us online at www.primacare.co.uk or call 01685 845900

Adam Ferry UK Therapy Services

Adam Ferry is an occupational therapist in both the statutory and independent sectors. He is also co-founder of UK Therapy Services. With combined experience of over 30 years, UK Therapy Services specialises in providing high quality occupational therapy assessment, rehabilitation and consultancy packages for the private, statutory and business sectors.

You can contact Adam on adam.ferry@uktherapyservices.co.uk or visit www.uktherapyservices.co.uk for more information.

OT APPROVED

RIBCAP

GEL OVATIONS

Gel Ovations’ stylish ribcap for both children and adults At an event in 2018, I was making my way through an exhibition and my attention was drawn to the Gel Ovations stand. I have to be honest, this is normally something that I would likely walk past but wondered why someone would be selling hats at an OT event. Loving the look of the Lenny range myself and not even considering that it would be

protective headwear, I proceeded to show my interest.

head protection to express their personality.

These amazing products offer fashionable design and head protection making them unique to anything else I have seen on the market.

Gel Ovations describe the product as head protection with style for all kinds of minimal risk outdoor activities for men, women and children.

Made for adults and children, the ranges offer flexibility of design and allow individuals who require

They’re spot on!

Visit gelovationseurope.com for more details or call 01454285071.

MUGGI Some of you may have seen the Muggi tray at events in 2018 and they are certainly becoming very popular I was fortunate enough to be given one to trial with my team last year and it has now become an essential part of the kitchen experience.

Muggi is designed to hold up to four mugs, cups or bottles and catches any drips or unwanted minor spillages. Its design appears so incredibly simple initially but the more you use it the more you see details that have been carefully considered and implemented.

The thumb holds, for example, are ergonomically perfect for carrying and the non-slip rubber feet provide

excellent grip on all flat surfaces.

Originally designed by MD David Trotter to help him carry drinks whilst sailing, this product can be used anywhere. It is lightweight but very strong and Muggi are so confident in its structural integrity they offer an 88-year guarantee!

During clinical interventions I have seen benefits for clients with Parkinson’s disease, clients with kitchen trolleys and particularly wheelchair users who find that the product allows them to engage in social kitchen activities independently

and safely without the need for support when transporting drinks.

As well as the obvious benefits in clinical settings the Muggi has uses everywhere; all kitchens, camping, workplaces etc.

The Muggi is available in a range of colours and now even offer personalised trays with a company logo.

Another great, simple product with huge potential.

Visit muggi.co.uk for more information.

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• Provides firm grip and hold • Non-toxic and chemically inert • Phtalate plasticiser free • Autoclave safe to 250°C • Antimicrobial • Fully washable and long lasting

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Tenura Ltd Churchill Road Industrial Estate, Brinscall, lancashire, PR6 8RQ Www.tenura.co.uk E sales@tenura.co.uk T 01254 467106

da ional n a m A n an occupat

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with s bee years g da ha Aman rapist for 14 with youn y g in n the k a r o in tl nce w ts, predom er ie r e p l ex s. H du and a lth setting aging e l p o n ea pe of ma ices ntal h in me xperience rv e s y us e erap h io t tor v e g r p pin te sec o l a e iv v r e p into and d ublic and e leap p in the to make th ctice. r a led he pendent pr inde

. f o e f i l e h t

Describe a typical day…

I work approximately 25 hours a week. My day typically starts with getting out for some fresh air and walking the dog, before sitting at my desk to review emails, new referrals, and responding to any needs or requests for my current clients.

The majority of my work comes from word of mouth, through previous work I have completed and via networking opportunities. I have regular appointments scheduled and I allow time to plan and prepare

Each month ..

we talk to a differen occupati onal thera t pist to see wh at a typic a l day is for the ma a little mo nd explain re about their role.

a d n a m A s e m a J e l d n e R

What is your current role?

For two years I have been working as an independent occupational therapist in a variety of settings, such as schools, colleges, client’s homes and residential settings. I have a varied and mixed caseload which gives me the challenge I need. Currently, I am working with individuals who have neurodevelopmental conditions, mild to moderate learning disability with comorbid mental health challenges.

Often my clients struggle to participate in a variety of everyday skills due to problems related to self-regulation.

A day in the life

My work takes me across Devon and Cornwall and I enjoy being in different environments each day and working with a varied population.

for these sessions. My work takes me across Devon and Cornwall and I enjoy being in different environments each day and working with a varied population. My travel provides me with time to reflect on my practice.

Returning at the end of the day, as you would expect is following up on telephone calls, updating clinical notes, providing reports, preparing for MDT meetings and so on. Factoring in administration time is very important. I am also a clinical supervisor and provide regular monthly supervision, as well as attending my own supervision

and participating in peer supervision with colleagues who are a mix of both independent and statutory OTs working with children and young people.

What’s the best part of your job?

Being my own boss, the freedom and flexibility it gives me and being able to focus purely on occupational therapy assessment and intervention. I enjoy the increased opportunities to network and follow up on CPD opportunities and to provide staff training.

What’s the hardest part of your job?

Business acumen, this has been a steep learning curve, sourcing local business support groups, and registering with the regional RCOTS-IP network for advice and support has been key in the learning process. I miss having a consistent team of daily OT support, however, I regularly liaise with my supervisor and Peer OT group to soundboard for advice.

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SLEEPLESS Nights Louise Berger and Allie Lewis talk to the The OT Magazine about a unique OT-led insomnia service that has been developed at Royal Surrey County Hospital.

Sleep problems can have an impact on every aspect of our lives.

Chronic sleep problems can have a detrimental effect on the ability to function to our best, our mood and our emotional and mental health.

Occupational therapists are well placed to support patients struggling with insomnia and other sleep issues as they understand the importance of a meaningful occupation such as sleep. Louise Berger and Allie

Lewis are part of an OT-led Insomnia Service that has grown since 2011 to provide dedicated support to 100s of patients experiencing sleep problems every year. Through this they have achieved great success with their patients – including receiving ‘Clinical Team of the Year’ award in their NHS Foundation Trust’s staff annual award.

Louise explained how the Insomnia Service came to fruition: “The Royal

Surrey County Hospital established a Sleep Clinic to assess and treat patients with sleep apnoea, over 15 years ago. Over time though, the Sleep Clinic manager Denise Daley, a Consultant Physiotherapist, became increasingly aware that many of the patients being referred were affected by insomnia but that the existing staff did not have the knowledge or resources to effectively treat this.

Denise therefore identified that an occupational therapist, with their grounding in physical and mental health, attention to meaningful roles and routines, and understanding of the impact of environment on function, would be an ideal specialist to start an Insomnia Service. She approached the Royal Surrey County Hospital Occupational Therapy Department, requesting an OT to establish and new Insomnia Service.”

“As OTs we often hear patients complaining of sleep problems.

In fact, we are in a prime position to ask about a patient’s sleep.

Unfortunately, sleep is an area that is largely misunderstood and poorly addressed by many health care providers. As OTs, we can clearly see the importance of sleep and

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“Sadly, because there are only a handful of insomnia services across the country, patients will often travel several hours to see us.” its impact on function, but sleep is rarely covered in any detail during OT training. I am embarrassed to admit that I often used to avoid asking patients about their sleep, because I felt helpless and ill equipped to advise them. Therefore, when in 2011 myself and a colleague were offered the opportunity to learn about sleep and insomnia and establish a new service to treat this, we jumped at the opportunity!”

“Initially we shared six hours a week. There was no formal training available that we were aware of, so with equal amounts of enthusiasm and trepidation, we embarked on an intense learning process, including extensive reading of textbooks and journals, alongside seeking support from other sleep and insomnia services.”

“Due to ongoing increasing demand for the service and very positive feedback from patients and GPs, we are now a team of four occupational therapists, leading and providing an Insomnia Service across the week at three different locations. Although we primarily treat insomnia, we regularly see people who have insomnia which is comorbid with another sleep condition, sleep apnoea being the most common.

Sadly, because there are only a handful of insomnia services across the country, patients will often travel several hours to see us. We would like to extend our service to other areas in the future.”

The service is accessed when patients are referred through their GP, psychologist, psychiatrist, IAPT services or other health professional.

Patients usually attend around six consultations spread over a few

months. Longer periods between appointments in latter stages of treatment, ensure the patient can independently sustain healthy sleep patterns. Allie explained what the sessions usually involve: “The consultations comprise of an assessment and delivery of specific evidence-based techniques that address unhelpful patterns of behaviour and thoughts that interfere with sleep. Each session lasts for 40 -50 minutes and we currently do this on a one-toone basis although we intend to start group-work for suitable patients in the future. After taking a comprehensive sleep history, which includes common OT themes such as mental or physical wellbeing, lifestyle, routines and sleep patterns, we take account of priorities, levels of motivation and potential limitations, and then deliver evidence-based interventions to address the patient’s sleep concerns.”

“As all OTs will know, getting patients to follow advice and make changes to their habits and routines is not easy. People with insomnia typically develop many habits i.e. avoiding going out in the evening, spending longer in bed, loading with caffeine during the day, ‘trying’ to sleep, etc., which in the short term help them to cope with their poor sleep, but in the long term, perpetuate the problem. What we ask of our sleep patients is at minimum inconvenient, but often difficult and frightening, because it will initially result in less sleep rather than more. It is easy to overlook the psychological and practical implications of the advice we give as OTs, but we must consider and address the patients’ barriers to change, in order to support them engage in treatment. We find it is essential to work collaboratively with our patients, helping them to understand not only what to change, but how and why this needs to be done. As OTs we are in an ideal place to facilitate behavioural change, as we have unique skills and insights that enable us to formulate a complex understanding of the patient and deliver treatment advice in a way

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that is accessible, manageable and inspiring.”

They go on to explain the vast number of people who are affected by sleep problems and the wide and varied groups of people that they treat in the clinic. Reiterating that issues with sleep patterns really can affect anyone and the detrimental effect it can have on people’s lives can be severe.

Louise expanded: “Most people know what it’s like to experience a ‘bad night’s sleep’ as this is part of the body’s response to stress.

From an evolutionary perspective, falling asleep as the sabre-tooth tiger attacks would not have been helpful!

For some people, a transient period of poor sleep becomes chronic insomnia (three months or more).

Research suggests that around 10-20% of the general population have clinically diagnosable insomnia.

This value increases considerably in populations affected by mental or physical ill health. So it is quite likely that around half the patients OTs are working with, have difficulty sleeping.

In our clinic we see patients from 18 to 90 years old, male and female, with and without comorbidities, and from all walks of life. We have seen young people with a background of depression or anxiety who are struggling to function at university, busy parents who find it difficult to relax and ‘switch off’, shift workers, high-achievers, patients suffering from stress, trauma or grief, those who have lost confidence in their ability to have a ‘normal’ routine or are coping with other health conditions as well. Sleep problems can affect anyone.”

“Research suggests that around 10-20% of the general population have clinically diagnosable insomnia.”

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THE TREATMENT The core of the treatment delivered in the Insomnia Service is a programme called Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I).

Louise explains: “CBT-I addresses five main areas that are fundamental to good quality sleep. These include sleep hygiene, stimulus control (strengthening the connection between bed and sleep), sleep consolidation (reducing time in bed to improve sleep quality and consistency), relaxation techniques (to reduce hyperarousal) and cognitive techniques (to encourage more helpful ways of thinking about sleep, reduce anxiety and calm the mind).”

“CBT-I is an extremely effective and evidence-based approach to treating insomnia. It is recommended as first line treatment for chronic insomnia

by NICE. CBT-I is more effective than sleeping pills and patients are equipped with tools to manage their

sleep for years to come, so treatment effects are generally enduring.”

“Many patients see sleep as being only a night-time problem, but research by Riemann et al in 2010 has revealed that insomnia is characterised by physiological hyperarousal over the entire 24-hour period. This again presents a huge opportunity for OTs, as we are skilled at supporting patients to develop meaningful roles and routines, adopt health promoting daytime practices, and manage stress, all of which are an essential part of reducing daytime arousal and promoting sleep at night.”

All the OTs involved in the service are passionate about the work they do and their real reward is knowing how much they are helping their patients, as Allie explains: “The wonderful thing about this role is that our patients generally get better.

About 80% of our patients report significant improvements in their

sleep patterns after a course of CBT-I and the impact is often life changing.

Insomnia is a hugely distressing condition that affects every area of a person’s life often for years or decades. Every patient is different and it is a constant challenge to ensure we are providing the best service we can for each one, but it is so rewarding to receive feedback such as: ‘you have given me my life back’, ‘I have started to look forward to things again’ or ‘I feel confident that I know what to do to sleep well in the future’.

To be part of someone’s journey to recovery is an absolute privilege and we would implore other OTs to consider how they can help their patients resolve (or manage) sleep difficulties. As OTs, we are well-placed to support and enable our patients to achieve a better quality of life, by starting with improving that most basic and vital of meaningful activities: sleep!”

If you would like to contact the Insomnia Service at Royal Surrey County Hospital you can email rsch.insomniateam@nhs.net or find out more on the hospital website royalsurrey.nhs.uk/service-list/respiratory-medicine/insomnia-clinic.

If you are looking for advice from OTs across the globe on sleep problems, take a look at sleepot.org.

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VIP 2

The new VIP 2 is the updated version of the VIP series of folding tilt in space wheelchairs, building on many years of experience of design and development.

As well as 35 degree tilt it now has either fixed or adjustable recline.

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It also now comes with an improved headrest design and a deeper seat.

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a 35° Tilt-in-Space

a 30° Anti-Sliding Recline

a Foldable and Durable

Tilt-in-space system further enables attendant to tilt the chair up to 35 degrees, allowing user to change to the most comfortable position helping to reduce the potential of developing pressure ulcers.

Sliding has always been one of the greatest concerns for people in a standard reclining chair. The VIP2 solves this problem by locating the reclining pivot point of the chair close to the human hip joint, which synchronizes the motion of the body and the chair.

The VIP 2 is light and folds fitting easily into a car boot.

The lateral push-bar strengthens the durability of this foldable chair and makes it easier to push the chair.

T: 0845 630 3436 E: INFO@KARMAMOBILITY.CO.UK WWW.KARMAMOBILITY.CO.UK

KARMA MOBILITY LTD UNIT 6 TARGET PARK, REDDITCH WORCESTERSHIRE B98 8YN

Over 58,000 health and care professionals report suffering from work related musculoskeletal disorders* Learn how to minimise the risk of injury to you and your client during moving and handling transfers at an Ethos CPD accredited workshop, delivered by Handicare experts.

E D U C AT I O N P R O G R A M M E

• Gain greater understanding of core moving and handling techniques and solutions and how equipment can be used to reduce the risk of injury.

• Hands-on experience in a workshop environment.

• Network with like-minded individuals, sharing best practices and experiences.

Full and half day training courses/ workshops available: • In bed management • Sit-to-stand • Hoist selection and application • Handling heavier clients • Single carer management • Bespoke training – with a wealth of experience, the Ethos team can create tailor made training to fit your requirements.

For more information or to request a brochure, email ethos@handicare.com

T: 01384 405792 www.handicare.co.uk

*Statistic from UK HSE Annual Statistics Report 2018

Pulse Guard

Peace of

MIND PulseGuard keeps an eye on those who are susceptible to seizures during the night, offering them and their loved ones a peaceful night’s sleep.

T

he sudden onset nature of seizures can be a terrifying thing, especially for parents of young children, who may be unable to express the feeling that they know something is wrong.

Even more so during sleep, when the ability to give warning of problems can be diminished or indeed not at all present. There are few ways to accurately detect an oncoming seizure, but the PulseGuard aims to do just that.

The device works by monitoring heart rate, and can detect more than just onset seizures by carefully looking for sudden changes to heart rate which indicate something is wrong. It provides a constant stream of data, and when the wearer’s heart rate falls outside normal parameters

– which are programmed to the wearer’s unique heart rate – it will raise an alert to ensure the wearer gets the assistance they require.

Super lightweight and not intrusive, the PulseGuard won’t interfere with the user’s sleep, and can be worn on the wrist or ankle. It pairs to a tablet via Bluetooth, which features the Plesio failsafe paging system which sends out an alert as soon as there’s an emergency.

The PulseGuard system has allowed many parents to get a good night’s sleep, stopping them from lying awake at night and worrying about their child. Tracie Underwood is one of those parents.

“We had two baby monitors in different rooms as he constantly moved from one room to another

when he couldn’t sleep,” Tracie said. “We needed something that was attached to him. I’d heard a lot about PulseGuard beforehand from various support groups, but making the decision to buy it was without a doubt, the best thing we have done, the peace of mind it has given us is absolutely priceless.

“I used to check on my son every half an hour or so, I slept terribly, I was living on my nerves but PulseGuard has given us huge peace of mind. The device is brilliant and so easy to use. But even more exceptional is the after care and the empathetic way that each one of every person that I had contact with before and afterwards treated us.”

Pia Comber uses one for her son, David, and finds it a tremendous comfort.

“Our son David has Dravet syndrome, which causes tremendous worry for two reasons. One is that David’s seizures are uncontrollable and quite commonly throughout the night.

In the past it has been very stressful and frustrating that we have missed some of his seizures, we have had many disturbed nights where we can’t sleep because we couldn’t be sure we would wake for David’s seizures.

“The second issue is that David is at high risk of SUDEP (sudden unexplained death in epilepsy), where his heart rate could slow and then stop. Obviously this is a silent issue and difficult to detect.

“Since having PulseGuard we can relax because it picks up on David’s seizures and we can respond quickly.

The alarm goes off seconds after seizures start so we can intervene if we need to. The alarm also goes off when the heart rate has got to a dangerously low level enabling us to act quickly. This recently happened and we were able to seek immediate medical advice.”

To find out more about PulseGuard, visit their website pulseguard.org, or call 01622 321111.

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One Arm Unlimited

ONE ARM

Unlimited The creation of One Arm Unlimited is both a passion project for founder Gary Fox, and a sorely needed resource for disabled people.

Gary Fox has been living his life to the absolute fullest since he lost the use of his right arm at the age of 18 in a road traffic accident. For the last 40 years, he has been bouncing from career to career, always moving up the ladder, and has allowed his drive and determination to take him to new heights in every conceivable aspect of his life. Never content with sitting still, even now in retirement, in between taekwondo lessons and learning to shoot clay pigeons, Gary has set up One Arm Unlimited.

Along with business partner Marcus Bentley-Graef, Gary believes that One Arm Unlimited will be pivotal in helping people who lose the use of an arm – both in the shortand long-term – to live more independently. Combining Gary’s personal experience with his and Marcus’ business acumen, the pair have established One Arm Unlimited to consolidate everything that someone who uses a prosthetic, has a weakness, or loses the use of one arm all in one place.

What sets One Arm Unlimited apart from competitors is that every item in their online store is tried and tested

by Gary himself.

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He and Marcus are hyper-aware that items which are vital to disabled people in allowing them to live an independent life are often designed and produced by nondisabled people. Gary’s feedback to manufacturers and stores has provided many who produce disability aids with vital information to make them as user-friendly as possible.

In the store, you’ll find items not only personally approved by Gary through his own trying and testing, but all the essential items as determined

by Gary through his own personal experience of losing the use of his arm.

This has also resulted in the creation of One Arm Unlimited’s Independence Packs. The Packs come in two varieties: Long Term and Short Term. Gary explains that while the Long Term pack is ideal

for those who are suddenly faced with the long-term loss of an arm, the Short Term Independence Pack was inspired by friends and coworkers who would ask his advice on remaining independent while their hand or arm was out of use for a short period – for example, if it was in a cast.

The company also run a number of one-day courses, which covers how to do anything from personal hygiene and dressing, to food preperation and other day-to-day activities.

One Arm Unlimited’s website also contains a series of tutorials which focus on retaining independence after losing the use of an arm. Gary notes that while lots of tutorials exist on how to live with a disability, they’re often dotted around the internet and can be quite difficult to find, requiring you to go hunting for them. By supplying their own tutorials, One Arm Unlimited not only bring everything together in one place, but create a perfect point of reference that can be easily utilised by not only those who have lost the use of an arm, but healthcare professionals like occupational therapists, who wish to provide their clients with a tried and tested source of quality information and videos to maintain their independence.

For more information visit onearmunlimited.com

NO MORE PUSHING HEAVY WHEELCHAIRS

At last, a truly lightweight attendant powered wheelchair for carers Attendant can manoeuvre the chair effortlessly, alleviating any potential strains or injuries to themselves

Up to

23 stone

Independence can be given back to the user by simply moving the control unit to the armrest.

The two powerful motors allow the Combi to navigate slopes and uneven surfaces with ease.

Combi           

Lightweight and easily transportable Lightweight lithium battery can be charged separately Adjustable slung backrest and 3 back angle settings Comfortable supportive seat Unique footplate and also swing away footrests supplied Adjustable armrest height 18” or 20” seat width options Up to 10 miles range Large wheel sport version for more challenging terrain Free-wheel mode for use as a standard wheelchair Flip-up armrests for side transfer

Larger sport wheels option available

Dismantles with ease and can be folded for transportation or storage

id e N a t io n w ge Covera The heaviest component which can be easily removed is the Drive Unit weighing 15kg

The Combi is a new and highly versatile lightweight powered wheelchair, featuring an easily switchable joystick which gives the user independence but also allows a carer to take control when required.

The comfort level and range of adjustments exceed that of most electric wheelchairs; even experienced users are impressed with its performance and all-round capabilities. It provides a real alternative to conventional powered wheelchairs and power packs.

For further information, please call us on:

0333 414 1881 Visit: www.cavendishhealthcare.co.uk

!

9 EW01 N for 2

Switch A simple and versatile solution for assisted standing and transfers Introducing the Oxford Switch from Joerns Healthcare.

Designed to help a person with reduced mobility, stand from a seated position and enable their onward transfer to another surface.

The Switch also facilitates patient rehabilitation, actively encouraging the user to participate in the standing process, engaging core muscles and helping to improve strength and natural function.

Key Features n

Safe Working Load 180kg / 28st / 397Ibs

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Compact and easy to manoeuvre

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Easy to transport and store

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Simple service and maintenance routines

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Height adjustable knee pad and optional padded covers

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Optional Patient Handling Belt for assistive support

Contact Joerns Healthcare for more information: (T) 0844 811 1158

(E) info@joerns.co.uk

(W) Joerns.co.uk

Product FOCUS Every issue we bring you the latest products from across the market to help you improve the lives of your clients.

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OXFORD® SWITCH

Designed to help a person with reduced mobility stand from a seated position and facilitate their transfer to another surface, the Switch encourages the user to participate in the standing process, improving strength and natural function. With a safe working load of 180kg (28st), the Switch maintains a compact footprint for storage and transportation.

0844 811 1156 | joerns.co.uk 2

ELECTRIC TURNING BED

Laybrook’s electric turning bed is ideal for a person who wants independence at home. One push of the button will do a full rotation from a seated position at the side of the bed to a sleeping position without the need for carers. It helps with getting legs onto the bed with the minimum of fuss and gives complete independence.

VISIT STAND N5020 AT NAIDEX 0808 274 0789 | laybrook.com

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Product Focus

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HARMONY FE LIFT

New, multi-size range. Allows users of varying abilities to make life easy and maintain their freedom.

Designed to fit most properties and incorporating the latest technology, safety features, a 350kg load and minimal footprint. Three sizes: compact, wheelchair and wheelchair plus attendant. Many optional features to aid use and flexibility including magnetic wireless controls.

0333 241 2143 | terrylifts.co.uk/harmonyfe 4

THE VIP2

The VIP2 features a 35 degree tilt and is available with either a backrest with fixed recline positions of -5 degrees to 15 degrees or an adjustable reclining back of 30 degrees. It comes with an adjustable headrest with a greater range of position options, a deeper seat for taller users and a tension adjustable backrest.

VISIT STAND N10103 AT NAIDEX

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0845 630 3436 | karmamobility.co.uk

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Product Focus 5

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LIFTKAR PTR STAIRCLIMBER

This tracked stairclimber helps you safely convey wheelchair users up and down stairs. It is extremely lightweight, portable and very easy to use. It helps to avoid the risk of strain to a carer’s back and tackles outdoor and indoor stairs with ease.

It includes three speeds, acoustic and visual inclination warning and has a range of up to 1000 steps on a single battery charge.

VISIT STAND N7020 AT NAIDEX 01473 333889 | sano.at/en 6

KINTSUGI CLOTHING

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This new inclusive fashion brand has dedicated its range to creating beautiful, useful apparel, designed with disabled women in mind. Their garments include features intended to make life easier - and more stylish - for a wide range of women.

Features include fuss-free fastenings, concealed pockets for medical devices and two-piece dresses and jumpsuits.

VISIT STAND N5170 AT NAIDEX 07738 356038 | kintsugiclothing.com 7

MOUNTAIN TRIKE

This all-terrain outdoor wheelchair offers users independence and freedom to travel off the beaten track. The unique lever drive system enables the rider to propel, steer and brake without touching the muddy wheels. The trike has air suspension and hydraulic brakes ensuring the ride is safe and comfortable on any terrain, from parklands and woodland trails to cobbled streets and snowy roads.

VISIT STAND N8134 AT NAIDEX 01270 842616 | mountaintrike.com

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COPA 2019

MOVING MEDICINE tops the agenda at COPA 2019

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ith over 300 speakers at this year’s COPA, 8-9 May at ExCeL London, there are a number of dedicated seminar sessions focusing on getting everyone active and practical advice for prescribing moment. A free pass to the event gives full access to the impressive line-up of speakers as well as a chance to network in the - bigger than ever - exhibition featuring suppliers offering a wide range of solutions for therapists and fitness products such as Power Plate, who offer inclusive products for people of any age and ability to keep muscles healthy.

The free-to-attend Thought-Leaders Conference will include a keynote presentation by CMO Professor Dame Sally Davies, as well as a session on tackling inequalities to create an active society with contributions from Professor Robert Copeland from Sheffield Hallam University, Dr Mike Brannan from Public Health England and Chris Perks, executive director for local delivery at Sport England. Another highlight from the conference will see physiotherapist Jack Chew chair a session on how to solve the low back pain epidemic, with speakers including Dr Jonathan Hill from Keele University and John Doyle from Nuffield Health.

For the first time COPA will also feature a Moving Medicine seminar stream, created by The Faculty of Sport Exercise and Medicine (UK) in partnership with Public Health England and Sport England. This series of free-to-attend seminars are aimed at giving practical advice and evidence on prescribing movement

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for those with specific needs such as cancer, heart disease, depression, dementia, inflammatory rheumatic disease and frailty, and includes speakers from Public Health England, Age UK, the Alzheimer’s Society, Mind and The Royal College of GPs. The Chartered Society of Physiotherapists (CSP) is a lead supporter of the event, which will also see workshops on podiatry, acupuncture and sports massage.

A seminar session inspired by the hugely successful CSP ‘Love Activity, Hate Exercise?’ campaign will look at how physiotherapists are supporting people with long term conditions to become more active, will include presentations by Anna Lowe, Physical Activity Clinical Champion, Public Health England, Rachel Young, Neurological Physiotherapist, Sheffield Neuro Physiotherapy and Associate Lecturer at Sheffield

Hallam University and Christopher Tuckett, Physiotherapist and Falls Practitioner from The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust.

With the launch of Elevate Kids there will also be a dedicated exhibition area for suppliers offering equipment for schools and play centres, supported by ukactive Active Kids, Youth Sports Trust, BALPPA, API and the Sports & Physical Education (PE) Association UK. For more information and to register for your free pass to attend go to elevatearena.com/copa

DON’T MISS

THE UK’S LEADING EVENT FOR PHYSICAL THERAPY COPA is the UK’s leading cross sector event for physical therapy. Each year, thousands of

CO-LOCATED WITH

physiotherapists, osteopaths, chiropractors, podiatrists and medical professionals, from both the private and public sector, attend COPA to source the latest products and services. This gathering provides a unique opportunity for cross sector learning, networking and discussion by connecting physical therapists with those involved in physical activity and sport.

LIMITED EXHIBITION SPACE STILL AVAILABLE The floorplan for 2019 is already 80% full, if you have products and services you are looking to promote book now to secure your stand space and take advantage of the early bird rates expiring soon.

350+ EXHIBITORS LEAD SUPPORTER:

1000+ PRODUCTS

5 INNOVATION AWARDS

300+ SPEAKERS

FANTASTIC NETWORKING

FEATURED EXHIBITORS:

BOOK YOUR STAND NOW - COPASHOW.CO.UK

CPD AND THE OT Change is something we have been experiencing more and more in recent years and the pace of change is set to continue. Regular service design changes impact us directly as occupational therapists often changing role definitions and leading to occupational therapy seeming like an ever-changing role.

In this context, how should we manage our continuing professional development? What should be the focus for refreshing skills?

The basis of our roles has always been primarily in holistic assessment,

EQUIPMENT REFRESHER FOR OTS The DLF is increasingly aware that many more OTs in a wide variety of settings are finding that their roles now include equipment provision when this was previously not the case. If an OT’s practice has been mainly with therapy-based solutions there is a need to refresh and gain knowledge of the practicalities of prescribing equipment in order to be effective.

Feedback we have received from the short, practical workshops DLF have been delivering recently at events around the country, confirm this immediate need and the suitability of the focussed refresher approach to CPD. Many OTs have stated that the simple and logical processes they have learnt in these workshops have made them rethink their own practices and have led to easier, more useful ways of managing equipment provision.

DLF’s ‘Equipment Refresher for OTs’ course has been delivered across the county for many years and, with increasing demand, DLF is now rolling out open courses in multiple locations around the UK to give OTs the guidance and confidence required for equipment provision.

meaning that the areas in need of refreshment are typically around the solutions available today. Even with so many useful information sessions from equipment suppliers being available, further skills based training is still needed to fill the remaining gaps. DLF specialises in practical equipment-based training and has done since 1974. The charity’s focus has been to up-skill professionals in the prescribing of equipment-based solutions with our online impartial information and advice as back-up to this (livingmadeeasy.org.uk and dlf-data.org.uk).

WORKING WITH TRUSTED ASSESSORS With pressures on budgets, the growth in the ageing population and growing demand for professional assessments, many organisations are looking at new ways of working and considering the Trusted Assessor concept as one option.

It is by no means a new idea but when executed well, the Trusted Assessor role integrates with and complements established services and frees up OTs to focus on the most complex cases.

Trusted Assessors have been trained by the DLF for over 16 years and, in that time, the role and types of Trusted Assessors have expanded.

Now with four accredited levels, DLF’s aim is to map on to the requirements in each locality. We are working to ensure the support is in place to provide accredited Trusted Assessors with the tools they need to ensure on-going confidence and proficiency beyond their training.

Clare Barber is Training Services Development Manager at the DLF, a qualified OT she specialises in equipment for independent living and is leading the development of the charity’s equipment-related training for healthcare professionals.

You can find out more about the Equipment Refresher for OTs course here training.dlf.org.uk/equipmentrefresher-for-occupationaltherapists/ and their Trusted Assessor range of courses here dlf.org.uk/ content/trusted_assessor_training Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2019-20, and part of the Shaw Trust since 2014 the DLF offers a range of impartial information and advice services for the public including the product comparison site Living Made Easy, our quick online self-assessment tool AskSARA and the forum Youreable. com. Our services for healthcare professionals include DLF-Data the subscription tool for prescribers of equipment for impendent living and a range of equipment-related training courses and conferences. For more information call 0207 289 6111 or email training@dlf.org.uk. DLF is part of Shaw Trust a charity registered in England and Wales 287785 and Scotland SCO3896.

Competition

PMG Conference How to

WIN a place!

Posture & Mobility Group (PMG) are collaborating with The OT Magazine for a fourth year running to offer subscribers the chance to win a free place at the PMG Conference!

Taking place at The International Centre in Telford from 15-17 July, the PMG Conference 2019 is a multidisciplinary event for professionals working in the field of posture and wheeled mobility (for wheelchair users), so is ideal for occupational therapists working in a range of areas.

This year’s conference programme includes sessions that focus on spinal injuries, transportation for wheelchair users, early powered mobility, pressure care, continuing professional development and 24-hour postural management for people with learning disabilities. We will also welcome Rachael Wallach, Founder and CEO of Disrupt Disability to open the conference, and Dr Rachel Tams, Consultant Clinical Neuropsychologist from Oxford University Hospital will speak about ‘Parents of adults with degenerative conditions: how their

role changes over time’.

We begin the conference with a speed networking event to get everyone talking! This year’s topics include bariatric wheelchair seating, pressure cushions and motor neurone disease – you can visit as many of these as you want, but only have 20 minutes at each before everyone moves on to the next. It’s a great way to share knowledge with a range of professionals working in similar areas.

Alongside the conference, the event includes a large industry exhibition, with companies demonstrating a range of relevant products such as manual and powered wheelchairs, special seating, buggies, pressure cushions, sleep systems, belts and harnesses, assistive technology, wheelchair controls and software solutions.

The free place we are offering is

ABOUT PMG PMG is a charitable incorporated organisation; in addition to our conference, we also fund research, publish an online journal and organise training events. You can become a member for free via our website!

worth nearly £500 and includes two nights’ onsite hotel accommodation, access to the conference and exhibition for two days with breakfast, lunch and refreshments provided, plus, a Gala Dinner ticket!

There is also the option to attend the free speed networking sessions and Italian welcome event on the Monday.

All the winner needs to do in return is write an article for The OT Magazine after the conference, analysing the event as a whole, or a particular presentation – ideal for your CPD! To be in with a chance of winning email your name, telephone and job title to theotmagazine@gmail.com with the subject ‘PMG Competition’.

You can find out more about the PMG Conference 2019 via our website: pmguk.co.uk.

Terms and conditions: The prize is for one person to attend the PMG Conference and includes hotel accommodation for two nights (Monday 15 and Tuesday 16 July 2019), access to the conference and exhibition for two days with breakfast, lunch and refreshments.

It also includes a ticket to the Gala dinner. Transport costs are the responsibility of the winner. The prize is not transferable, nor can any cash alternative be offered. The prize is given on the understanding that the winner writes a review of the conference or of a particular session to appear in The OT Magazine – this must be completed by 12 August 2019. Closing date for entries: 30 April 2019.

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CETEC

SMART HOMES

Supporting elderly individuals to live at home Firas Sarhan, Director of CETEC at Barnet Southgate College We are seeing people living longer with a noticeable increased number of ageing populations over 65 thanks to advancement in healthcare and lifestyles. In 2016 in the UK, 18% of people were aged 65 and over, and 2.4% were aged 85 and over.

This constant change in the UK population, mainly with the ageing population, means there are increased pressure on the sustainability to provide social services such as healthcare and housing. This is a major challenge the health and social care commissioners face with reduced resources financially and in terms of manpower.

The use of technology could support the ageing population living longer at their home environment, ensuring their environmental safety as well as monitoring progress of their longterm medical conditions. Recently, several health and social care authorities are adapting the concept of care at home and enhancing the role of clients to become more involved in their own care and selfmanagement of their medical or social conditions.

Advance technology and Internet of Things (IoT) is seen as a means that can support and advance care at home and take part in newly redesigned care pathways that can address the needs of the ageing population living at home. There is more interest among ageing individuals and their relatives to live longer at their own homes and this interest is a key driver to facilitate the

development of smart homes. Smart home is a term used to describe a home designed purposely with interactive technologies. These are capable of providing artificial intelligence about residents by means of special electronic devices.

Technology such as sensors at home can examine individuals’ movements, fall detection and other long-term medical conditions such as heart disease, asthma and diabetes. Furthermore, having these smart homes developed with advance technology allows higher levels of independence, activity, empowerment and selfmanagement.

Smart homes can facilitate the following functions: • Provide a safe environment through monitoring activities within the home such as having movement sensors, flood and fire detectors, door sensors, window sensors, smart sockets • Environmental control (home automation) systems for individuals with severe physical disability such as severe spinal cord injury or brain injury as well as cognitive function, these automation systems can control devices at home such as lights, TV and music systems and other entertainment devices and smart energy meters • Empowerment and enabling individuals, relatives and their carers to be more engaged in managing the care and the needs of their close ones or clients. The sensors will be able to detect unfamiliar movements, activities and emergencies and

generate an alert to relatives, carers or emergency services.

• Telemonitoring of long-term conditions such as chronic heart failure (CHF), diabetes and chronic obstructive airway disease. Specific systems developed to be able to transfer clinical data/vital signs to clinical hubs that allows telemonitoring of client’s medical conditions remotely and establishing changes and medical needs • Tele-rehabilitation programmes of individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities. The use of visual or auditory systems could facilitate rehabilitation sessions, either physical or cognitive therapy, such as use of tele-physiotherapy software programmes outline certain physical activities or having software that address cognitive function such as using magic or sensory carpets.

It is important that health and social care professionals as well as designers of smart homes are fully aware of the purpose as there is a specific requirement to ensure a functional smart home: the smart homes should have technology systems that allows data transmission through networks, sensors, and specially designed devices addressing client’s needs. These systems have two approaches: one dependent of individuals who live at home or an autonomous system.

The first is fully dependent of the clients interaction and intervention, while the other systems are autonomously functioning based on pre-programmed data and software that will monitor individuals.

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CETEC Designing and developing smart homes could be a challenging process. Key principles to consider include: • Ensuring clients freedom, security and privacy of data being transferred using sensors and advance devices. Due to data being transferred it is essential developers ensure safety measures to prevent hacking of data and systems.

• A holistic approach in identifying the needs of the clients with their involvement and their relatives, keeping in mind that the client’s home is a harmonious space developed over years.

• Adaptability: ensuring the use of technology is being tailored to meet the client’s health and social needs.

• For the successful development of a smart home there is an essential need that individuals and professionals develop an acceptability of using such a concept. There is a need for acceptability which includes: psychologically, usability, compatibility and affordability.

• Adding quality to clients life is one of the key aims of smart homes, therefore it is essential users develop trustworthiness that allows safe use of technology and there is no misuse or malfunctioning of sensors, devices and network systems.

Ethical consideration and smart homes There are key questions to be addressed prior to engaging in designing or developing smart homes, these questions need to have holistic answers to minimise risks to technology users, installers and care commissioners.

These questions are linked to autonomy and beneficence of applying technology in the home environment, its impact in social isolation and engagement with local communities, independence of clients in maintaining safety and quality of care, vulnerability of individuals in consenting care and transferring sensitive clinical data, furthermore, the control and ownership.

Examples of smart home technologies: • Smart sockets: tracking the use of appliances within the home with notification of its use, frequency and duration • Visual and audio reminders for medication or exercise activities • Water sensors – flood detectors • Temperature sensors • Water temperature sensors • Humidity sensors • Smart door locks • Fall detection • Indoor tracking • Detection of unwanted personnel • Health monitoring alerts • Assistive navigations • Home cleaning • Smart gardening: robotics lawnmowing

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The development of smart homes is not a fantasy.

It is becoming more of a real concept that could enhance the life of elderly individuals living at home.

The development requires careful thinking and planning to ensure accurate application of technology can be integrated to be fit for purpose and practice ensuring safety and adding quality to life.

Lighting accessible bathrooms well the OT’s guide It only takes a power cut for everyone to realise just how essential lighting is. For those with mobility and vision issues, the importance of good lighting cannot be underestimated. After all, being able to see a space clearly not only benefits movement, balance, gait and stability but ultimately improves a person’s overall safety.

New Task Focused Lighting Guide to Help OTs

With this in mind AKW, specialists in providing accessible bathrooms and

kitchens, has worked closely with OTs to develop a new Task Focused Lighting Guide for Accessible Bathrooms.

Here are some excerpts, but for more information why not download the whole guide from akw-ltd.co.uk/lighting?

Good bathroom lighting – a mix of task and ambient lighting

Good bathroom lighting needs to deliver adequate light levels for the user to perform a variety of tasks around the space, including showering, shaving and other personal care activities. For those with low vision or mobility issues, the avoidance of shadows, dark areas and glare are key to safe movement around the space.

A mix of task-specific lighting and overall ambient lighting is needed to ensure the bathroom is sufficiently lit. The number of lights that are required for the bathroom will depend on its size and layout.

However, the key areas that will need

AKW Advertorial illumination for specific tasks include the toilet, sink, shower and/or bath.

Task focused lighting is best achieved through the use of fittings installed on the ceiling that contain an LED downlight that throws a narrow beam of light onto a specific space, such as the shower area, or sink. To maintain ambient light levels in the bathroom however, up to two LED lights should be spaced to maximise coverage and minimise shadowing.

The AKW Bathroom Lighting Pack

To help those specifying and installing lighting, AKW has created a bathroom lighting pack. It contains everything needed to light a standard UK bathroom (standard size 8ft by 6ft or 2,438mm x 1,829mm) and the products conform to all relevant industry standards for a bathroom installation.

The pack contains five narrow beam (30°) LED task lights: three for the bath/ shower zone and two for the toilet and sink areas. There are two long lasting, bright (1764lm) LED ceiling lights for the ambient lighting of the space and a high-contrast, blue pull-cord switch.

Promoting independence through good lighting

01 Accessible Bathroom without Task Focused Lighting:

Accessible bathroom without AKW’s task focused lighting, uneven lighting, shadows and dark areas

Good bathroom lighting delivers adequate light levels for the user to perform a variety of tasks around the space 1

2

02 Accessible Bathroom with Task Focused Lighting: Accessible bathroom with AKW’s task focused lighting, to ensure the bathroom is sufficiently lit

1

AKW’s Bathroom LED Light

AKW’s Bathroom LED task lights ensure any task is well-lit, promoting independence and safe use of the space.

2

AKW’s Blue Pull Cord

AKW Lighting kit also contains a blue pull-cord switch, delivering ultimate contrast for those with sight loss or dementia.

A well-lit bathroom space can boost a person’s wellbeing and confidence, enabling them to engage more readily in day-to-day activities in a high-risk space. With a little time and investment good bathroom lighting not only has the potential to promote independence, but help reduce accidents as well.

According to Kate Sheehan, occupational therapist: “Tasks carried out in a bathroom often require close working e.g. shaving and make up application, or intimate personal hygiene e.g. wiping after going to the toilet or washing between the toes. All of these actions require the occupational therapists to maximise the client’s ability to perform the task and lighting is a critical part of the assessment and specification.”

Download the new Task Focused Lighting Guide for Accessible Bathrooms from akw-ltd.co.uk/lighting.

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Natural

PROBLEMSOLVERS Chris Buckingham is an OT who has used her experience and creativity to turn her hand to product design and now focuses on developing innovative products that help maintain independence.

When Chris Buckingham was working as an OT on the elderly rehabilitation ward, she noticed that patients using walking frames couldn’t safely carry items at the same time. In a true example of problem solving, Chris, frustrated by the lack of a solution, designed a product herself. This was the first step into a product design career and was the catalyst for Chris to start her own business.

Occupational therapists often need to adapt products and patient’s living environments. With this natural problem-solving ability and focus on delivering a solution, is product design the perfect next step for an OT? Chris thinks so. Working as an OT gives you an enormous insight into the everyday challenges’ patients encounter. It also highlights what works with products available today, and what doesn’t. This makes an OT incredibly well placed to feed into product design ideas.

Chris developed the Buckingham Caddy after noticing that walking frame users couldn’t carry items safely. The alternative was a wheeled trolley. But unless they have brakes, you can’t use it to support your weight. This means it’s not a suitable replacement for a walking frame.

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Chris got a prototype produced in the UK and started discussions with a major distributor to secure a licensing deal. The Caddy then went into full production and has gone from strength to strength ever since.

The most recent development for the Buckingham Caddy is the move back to the UK for manufacture.

Up until recently the Buckingham Caddy was manufactured by Performance Health as part of a long-standing licensing agreement.

Midway through last year though, Buckingham Healthcare took over full production in the UK to allow them to focus on future development of the product.

Performance Health continued as the primary distributor of the Caddy ensuring a smooth transition for existing customers.

Since developing the Caddy, Chris has gone on to develop several products to solve various problems she’s encountered over the years.

The Buckingham

Brabuddy

While working in a hospital on the stroke unit as an OT, Chris realised how difficult it was to put a bra on using only one hand. Chris created the Buckingham BraBuddy as a solution. The BraBuddy works by holding one end of your bra in place, while you bring the other end around your body, so you can fasten it.

Chris Buckingham

The

Easywipe

Range of Bottom Wipers Chris developed the original Easywipe for patients who struggle to reach to wipe themselves after using the toilet. The product has been a huge success and has even been featured on the This Morning TV show. Since then a compact folding version has been developed, and most recently the new Pocket Easywipe - this folds down to an incredibly small size making it really discreet.

Unique

A Perspective

Chris commented: “We firmly believe that OTs have a unique insight into the challenges faced by their patients. This makes them perfectly placed to offer and develop ideas for new product innovations. For example, the Caddy was originally designed for the few frames that the NHS purchased a number of years ago. There are now many more designs available, so we welcome any feedback from OTs, such as whether the current design fits the frames you use or needs to change. Likewise, if you have any frustrations due to lack of available solutions or new product ideas you would like to develop, we’d love to hear from you.”

The

Company

The

Foldeasy Toilet Frame

Buckingham Healthcare is family run and based in Dorset. It specialises in designing and manufacturing innovative aids to daily living and healthcare related products. Chris and her team also support small businesses with product sourcing, prototyping, product design and manufacturing. The company strives to help people remain independent by providing innovative products designed and made in the UK. For more information please visit buckinghamhealthcare.co.uk

Chris developed the Foldeasy to provide a portable solution for toilet frame users. Going away on holiday or to visit friends can be a challenge for toilet frame users, so this portable solution addresses this common issue.

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ROBOTCARE

Robot Care

Samsung’s presentation at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES) showed just how important robotics will become in the homes of the future.

A

t this year’s Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Samsung revealed how it will be introducing technology into people’s lives to improve and better them.

The Bot Care, a cute little robot, can measure the user’s blood pressure, heart rate, respiration and sleeping quality, and is able to remind you when it’s time to take your medication. It can also offer users advice and exercise suggestions regarding managing their stress.

The robot is part of Samsung’s cutting-edge AI technology which is designed to assist users in their daily life, promoting independence within parameters it can safely guard. It features the latest iteration of Samsung’s foray into automated intelligence – AI – called Bixby, and exploits the latest developments in hardware and software, combining both into a more user experienceorientated design.

Its looks feel like a cross between Honda’s famed ASIMO and a pawn: the hip-height robot is white, chubby and curved, and its non-threatening design is likely to improve its appeal with elderly people and children.

Trundling around on a set of wheels, its main point of physical interaction is its rounded black face, which

displays blinking white eyes when the users interacts with it.

Alongside this, Samsung launched GEMS, their muscle strengthening and posture training device, which is a heavy-duty wearable piece of technology to assist users in issues regarding their gait. The Gait Enhancing and Motivating System is designed for users who have issues with walking, running or standing up – such as elderly people or those with lower body impairments – and provides maximum support while preventing muscle fatigue.

For those who are considered more general users, the GEMS device can be used to assist in correcting posture or enhance exercise capabilities, allowing them to expend less energy during a workout, making it ideal for those who live with fatigue related to chronic illness. Samsung’s GEMS are available to support hips, knees and ankles, meaning the correct device will target and support the precise area of the lower body that the user requires work on.

“People can look forward to the future that Samsung Bots will help create.”

Senior vice president and general manager of home appliances at Samsung Electronics America John Herrington said: “Connecting people in new ways and helping them care for their homes and families is one of our biggest missions.

“Samsung is taking connected living to the next level with innovations that are more intelligent and intuitive, allowing people to get things done while enjoying time with family and friends.”

Deputy head of Samsung Research Seung Hwan Cho said: “Our plan is to gauge consumers’ demand for robots, consider ways to create solutions for societal challenges, and accelerate our development efforts.

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Heading here

beauty RECAPTURING THE

OF THE BODY “It was actually my brother Adam who came up with the name. It is an amalgamation of ‘ostomy’ and ‘unique’, representing the innovative products we have designed,” said design engineer Stephanie Monty, who is on a mission to redefine an image and help destigmatise and alleviate the trauma facing those who have undergone a colectomy.

Graduating from Brunel University 50

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with a first-class degree in Industrial Design in 2015, Stephanie has developed and produced a range of ostomy products inspired by the intricacies and delicate forms in tattoos and lacy lingerie and has just been awarded a grant to allow her to fund product research and development for the next 18 months.

With two brothers with Crohn’s disease, the designer isn’t short in

motivation. Hoping her innovative adhesive stoma cover patches will encourage people to love their bodies, the embossed designs are carefully designed to create a sense of femininity, softness and confidence. Taking into consideration the affects of wearing a typical stoma bag with a bathing suit, it offers a welcome and contemporary alternative to the clinical norm.

“When I started this course, I had no intention of getting into medical design,” the Ostique director admitted.

But away from the boardroom, it is her unique artistic designs that have helped her really create a winning formula.

The stunning blueprint for her success lies in its distinctive key difference to other products on the market. The contrast against the usual drab competition is at the heart of its development and in turn the success.

“But just before starting my final year, my brother, who has Crohn’s disease, faced a serious operation where he was told he may need a colectomy and have a stoma.

I am ashamed to admit that I had never heard of a stoma. As a family, we looked into what this meant, and I felt there was a real opportunity for a new approach to what was currently available.

“This started as a university project but here I am three years later with a funded company!”

And using her brothers’ “determination and strength through everything” as inspiration, it wasn’t long before Ostique was making waves off campus, with both her own design industry and the medical arena keen to see her creation.

“It has been a rollercoaster!

Graduating, I really had no idea where this would lead. After exhibiting at New Designers Exhibition in London, I was featured in Dezeen Magazine - the holy grail for designers and an absolute honour!

“I then joined the Central Research Laboratory, Brunel’s affiliate business accelerator, where they gave me an understanding of how to run a business and helped me enter into a series of start-up competitions. I ended up winning the Brunel Venture Competition in 2016 and was a national finalist in the Santander Entrepreneur Competition the following year. It was here that my university project transformed into Ostique Ltd. I later joined BizzInn, another start-up accelerator but this time based in Birmingham, where I had access to my now partners, the University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust (UHB) and the Medical Device Testing and Evaluation Centre (MD-TEC).

Together we applied for the Innovate UK grant, which we won. I now have

an office in central London and have just hired my first employee,” the tireless now-businesswoman regaled.

But despite Ostique’s profile and stature growing at breakneck speeds, Stephanie has been dealt enough blows to allow her to keep her feet on the ground and become the kind of robust, savvy business owner she needs to be to go further.

“It has not always been plain sailing.

I have also lost competitions and been rejected by investors. I have sometimes found it hard to motivate myself to continue going or have felt overwhelmed by financial pressures and amount of work.

“But I believe passionately in what we are doing and I know we can make the difference. Emails and messages from potential customers praising our work and explaining how much this would change their lives has also been a huge motivation and continued inspiration.”

Now, together with Bowel and Cancer Research UK and the University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, the graduate has won an Innovate UK grant of £310,000. Coupled with additional investors, further research and development including prototype design and development, clinical and patient testing, materials testing and gaining necessary regulations for commercialisation can be conducted.

She said: “We hope that by stylising medical accessories, it will help people deal with the psychological trauma of stoma surgery. Many people are confident with their stoma and their bodies, however sadly this is not the case for everyone. Especially times where exposing a typical appliance could cause embarrassment, like swimming, going to the beach or especially intimate occasions. By having a functional medical product, which is also beautiful and can be personalised, we hope to give people back their confidence as well as reduce the negative social stigma surrounding this topic.

“2019 promises to be a very exciting year! We have moved into our new offices in Central London and have hired a new member of staff, Toni Schneider, our new Chief Operating Officer. We have also made a start on the Innovate UK project, the first stage of which is prototype design and development. Throughout the next year or so, we will develop our products with crucial patient and clinical input, to ensure we are developing products not only for, but with our customers. Material testing together with clinical tests on robots and later patients will also ensure that our future application for CE marking will be accepted which is something we hope to achieve by mid 2020.

“We have lots going on and it really is so exciting!”

Follow Stephanie’s venture by visiting ostique.co.uk or following @Ostiqueltd on Twitter and Instagram.

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Precision Rehab

GYRO HEAD CONTROL

Revolutionary headset that allows users to control their powered wheelchair and computer from the slightest movement.

Precision Rehab is one of the first UK powered wheelchair suppliers to sign up as an official UK supplier for the Gyro Glory head control. They will be demonstrating this ground-breaking product alongside their range of powered wheelchairs on stand N1100 at Naidex on 26-27 March.

Created by Now Technologies, the Gyro Glory has been designed to provide powered wheelchair users with an easy-to-use, discreet headset from which they can control their chair and computer through head, cheek or eye movement.

“As one of the UK’s leading suppliers of powered wheelchairs we are always looking for new advances in technology which can help our clients and the Gyro Glory headset is certainly one such product. Some of our clients have extremely complex needs and a product such as this

will provide them with an increased level of independence, even those with the most restricted level of movement,” commented Matthew James, Director, Precision Rehab.

The Gyro Glory headset is compatible with all powered wheelchairs available from Precision Rehab as all the chairs in the company’s portfolio can run the OMNI control system. The headset is very user-friendly and easy to set up, and connects with the user’s chair through Bluetooth - a cable can also be used if there is interference, such as at music events or exhibitions, and this charges the headset at the same time if required. All the user needs to do is put on the lightweight headset and position the click sensor approximately 1-2cm from the corner of their eye, cheek or any other part of the face which they can move. Once the user has found

a position which suits them best.

The sensor works by detecting the light reflected from the surface of the user’s skin or eye, thus the sensor can detect when their eye is open/closed/partially closed or movements in the face where it is positioned. The headset also features a built-in tremor filter to allow for involuntary movements and has a 20-hour battery life.

Once all set-up, the user can manage all the controls on their powerchair as well as the mouse on their PC or laptop, increasing their independence immensely in the home and out and about.

For more information on the Gyro headset or full range of powered wheelchairs available from Precision Rehab please call 01256 300111, email info@precisionrehab.co.uk or visit precisionrehab.co.uk

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All the latest from the world of paediatrics

Paediatrics

SECTION C

hildren are like little impressionable sponges, but sometimes creative measures must be taken to help mould them into assured and confident little beings.

It’s natural for children to be a bit apprehensive when it comes to unusual or daunting environments. For example, visiting the doctor’s office or hospital may be quite challenging.

Opening up to people in positions of authority or relaxing in an environment they have figured out is where you go if something is wrong can be worrying. But one Irish university opened the doors to its annual Teddy Bear Hospital last month, to take away the anxiety and taboo for hundreds of

56

local school children. Learn more on page 56.

While at an impressionable age, it is important to ensure children learn how to be mindful and in check of their emotions. On page 59 we look at the new government strategy that is promoting mindfulness in schools and its importance.

We also bring you all the musthave products for your younger clients and as usual, if you have a story you want to share contact ros@2apublishing.co.uk.

Read on to find out more...

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Paediatric Health

TODAY’S THE DAY THE

TEDDYBEARS HAVE THEIR PICNIC

An Irish university celebrated opening their 14th annual Teddy Bear Hospital, conducting appointments for over 1200 sick teddies to help local primary school children feel comfortable in the hospital setting and calm around doctors.

T

he National University of Ireland Galway’s health promotion society Sláinte Society ran the two-day event over 17-18 January with 200 medical, healthcare and science students diagnosing and treating the teddy bears under the watchful eyes of their 1200 minders – a group of excited children from 29 local primary schools.

The society, which promotes physical and mental health, organised the day with the purpose of removing preconceptions of a cold, clinical environment and tackling anxiety in young children when visiting a medical centre or hospital.

Students took care of the teddies, but also spent time with the children ranging from three to eight years old in the fun and relaxed manner.

Teddies were seen for any and all weird and wonderful ailments, with patients checking in with everything from sore tummies to hurting ears, and on arrival to the on-campus hospital the children

Images:by Aengus McMahon

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Paediatric Health and patients took part in a one-onone consultation with a doctor, before an examination determined what their ‘pawscription’ was, with a resulting referral to surgery or x-ray.

The students of NUI manned the x-ray and MRI machines specially designed for the cuddly patients, giving a realistic but assuring picture of the process in the real world.

Recuperating teddy bears then received the appropriate medical supplies from the fully stocked Teddy Bear Pharmacy, which also offered delicious fruit to promote healthy eating while they were at it.

Once the children’s teddies were tended to, the kids celebrated a successful trip to the docs by letting their hair down and unwinding with exciting entertainment from NUI’s circus society and even a bouncy castle.

bear in Galway deserves the best care. We are eagerly awaiting the arrival of our first ‘patients’ and hope to present an atmosphere of fun, enthusiasm and encouragement for all.”

Ríona Hughes, NUI Galway’s Societies Officer, said: “The Teddy Bear hospital is a magical opportunity for the society to invite the children and their teddies to campus and provide a valuable learning experience for all. It is one of the NUI Galway societies’ most colourful and endearing community outreach programmes and we are thrilled with its success.

Congratulations to Sláinte Society who engage such a large number of our students in this event for such a positive purpose and we look forward to a rewarding few days for all involved.”

The Teddy Bear hospital is a magical opportunity for the society to invite the children and their teddies to campus and provide a valuable learning experience for all.

Anna Lynam, a second year occupational therapy student and co-auditor of Sláinte Society, said ahead of the event: “We are so excited to welcome the 14th annual Teddy Bear Hospital this year.

Despite the ever-growing demand from schools to attend the event, we strive to include as many schools as possible; conscious that each and every teddy

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Mental Health

BEINGMINDFUL The government are rolling out a scheme to promote positive mental health in schools across England, which will feature many techniques already familiar to OTs

T

he government marked Children’s Mental Health Week in February by announcing the introduction of mindfulness to schools in an effort to promote positive mental health, in what will amount to one of the largest studies in the world of its kind.

The innovative techniques will be introduced to 370 schools in England as part of a series of trials which will investigate different methods and approaches of supporting the mental

health of young people across the country.

Many OTs will be familiar with the techniques being introduced into schools: mindfulness exercises like relaxation techniques and breathing exercises will be taught to pupils to help them cope with and regulate their emotional state, while mental health experts will run pupil sessions, providing them with a wealth of professional advice and support. Running until 2021, the study hopes to provide schools

and schoolchildren with the tools they need to support and balance their mental health and wellbeing alongside school.

Education Secretary Damian Hinds said: “As a society, we are much more open about our mental health than ever before, but the modern world has brought new pressures for children, while potentially making others worse.

“Schools and teachers don’t have all the answers, nor could they, but we know they can play a special role which is why we have launched one of the biggest mental health trials in schools. These trials are key to improving our understanding of how practical, simple advice can help young people cope with the pressures they face.

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Mental Health “To support this, we’re introducing compulsory health education in all schools, within which children will start to be introduced gradually to issues around mental health, wellbeing and happiness right from the start of primary school.

“We are rolling out significant additional resources to schools to improve mental health provision at an earlier stage through the government’s Green Paper proposals, including awareness of ‘mental health first aid’ techniques and teams of trained mental health staff to work with and in schools.”

The trial will include both primary and secondary schools, and will be led by the Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families, working in partnership with University College London. It hopes to use large amounts of time spent in schools positively in providing both teachers and pupils the skills to identify changes in pupils’ behaviour or mood, which can then be tackled effectively using interventions including mindfulness techniques.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “I want to see all children and young people have the opportunity to flourish – and protecting their mental health is vital to this.

“I’m incredibly excited by this initiative, which will help young people better understand their mental health and identify when they need to ask for help sooner.”

Crucially, services like these can lessen the anxiety, pain and anguish that some teens go through, but also reduce their need for intensive support further down the line.

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There are five variations of the trials being rolled out in the schools: two of which are focused on secondary schools, and will see trained teachers or specialist instructors providing pupils with a set of tools to better increase understanding of mental health conditions among both students and faculty. The other three sets of trials will focus on both primary and secondary schools, and teach students “lighter-touch” approaches which will include the teaching of exercises which originate from mindfulness practices including breathing exercises and muscle relaxation techniques, while also being taught the importance of creating networks of emotional support in their peer groups.

Dr Jessica Deighton from the Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families said: “We know schools have a strong commitment to supporting children’s mental health and wellbeing but have had little clear guidance about the best ways to approach this. We want children and young people, parents and teachers to be confident that mental health in schools has an absolutely robust evidence base.

“This world leading research which, we at the Anna Freud Centre are proud to be leading, will provide that and has the potential to transform mental health promotion in schools across England. We also need to better identify the mental health needs of the most vulnerable children in society, particularly children in the care system, and an improved mental health framework will greatly help.”

These announcements are part of the government’s wider desire to invest in the mental health of young people, and provide them with the tools to support them as they grow up and experience challenges relating to their mental health.

Catherine Roche, Place2Be CEO said: “We welcome these trials in continuing to build an evidence base of effective ways to make a

Trained teachers or specialist instructors providing pupils with a set of tools to better increase understanding of mental health conditions among both students and faculty.

real difference to children’s mental health. We know from Place2Be’s work in schools across the UK the importance of working not only with children and young people, but in partnership with teachers, parents, and the wider community to promote mental health and life-long resilience.”

Action for Children’s director of policy and campaigns, Imran Hussain, said: “Every day our frontline services see children and teenagers struggling to get to grips with how they fit into the increasingly complex modern world - contending with things like intense pressure at school, bullying or problems at home, all while being bombarded by social media.

“It’s really encouraging to see the government taking action to tackle the children’s mental health crisis by trialling different approaches in schools. We know from our own school programmes how vital it is to step in early with support to stop problems in their tracks. Crucially, services like these can lessen the anxiety, pain and anguish that some teens go through, but also reduce their need for intensive support further down the line.”

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The Drop-In

Chat Café An initiative is tackling the growing rate of suicides in North Lanarkshire head on offering supportive chats on a drop-in basis – eliminating long, damaging and concerning waiting lists.

In the wake of a spate of young people finding it all too much in the towns of Motherwell and Wishaw, mental health officer Len Northfield of Lanarkshire Links, a mental health help service based in Motherwell, has began the Drop-In Chat Cafe in neighbouring Newmains’ NCT centre.

three months concluding at the end of April.

Chat Cafe

to. The more we get people talking about it the more people we will ultimately save.

With the informal counselling sessions hoped to support people into further help, the service removes the sometimes fatal waiting list from the equation, and is targeting the same success as its first run.

“During Suicide Prevention Week in 2017 we decided to try a pop-up cafe that allowed people to drop in and talk to someone, totally informally and without any need for an appointment.

Len told Scottish newspaper the Daily Record: “20 to 30 years ago cancer was the thing people were scared to talk about.

“We ran it three times and the feedback was brilliant. People wanted the service every week so that’s what we did.

“People wouldn’t speak up if they “In the wake of the recent suicides in found a lump or felt ill and often Following a successful pilot of the Wishaw it was clear that there was a when they finally went to the doctor programme in a Motherwell cafe, need to bring the service further into it was too late. which invited people to drop in for the community. The most important a chat, advice or signposts to further “Suicide awareness campaigns have things are the human to human support, the project was rolled out made things so much better but contact and talking without a sixto the new Newmains base for there is clearly still a long way to go week waiting list.”

The Drop-In Chat Cafe will take place every Monday between 10am and 2pm until the end of April in Newmains NCT centre.

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65

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man with a rare neurological condition which leaves him with extreme ‘shakiness’ in his legs has discovered how to remain in his two-storey home after becoming the first person to have a new state-of-the-art Stiltz Trio+ Homelift installed.

Peter Kilburn, 62, from Whittlesey in Peterborough, suffers from primary orthostatic tremor and is unable to stand or walk for any length of time. There are only thought to be about 150 people in the UK with the condition, which is otherwise known as OT. There is no cause and currently, no cure.

Mr Kilburn noticed his legs started severely aching seven years ago but was not diagnosed with OT until 2016 when he began experiencing high frequency tremors in both limbs. His condition has grown progressively worse to the point where he was finding it extremely difficult to use the stairs in the four-bedroom detached home he shares with his wife, Vivien.

The Kilburns had been living at the property for 14 years and were very settled in the home and the area.

Being faced with the prospect of having to sell up and move from their beautiful home and downsize to a bungalow was very upsetting for them.

“My mobility had become extremely limited because of my primary orthostatic tremor,” admitted Mr Kilburn. “It’s something I’ve had to accept and adapt my life to suit it.

When I first wake up it’s too painful in the morning for me to even take a few steps.

“Once I’ve taken my medication, I

Stiltz Homelift

Peter Kilburn is enjoying more independence at home after installing the Stiltz Trio+ Homelift

can usually walk for short distances but it can take three or four hours for the tablets to start working. When we go out, I use a wheelchair, as it’s just easier and I also have a mobility scooter to get around. We did take a look at moving to a bungalow but it was a frightening thought as we didn’t want to leave our home.”

The couple looked at mobility aids but were really against buying a stairlift so, after some detailed online research, they became the first customers in the UK to have the second generation Stiltz Trio+ Homelift installed. The attractive and ergonomic lift has a subtle, contemporary feel and looks like something out of a Star Trek movie.

Now Mr Kilburn can move from floor to floor independently and in style; all at the touch of a button.

The couple decided to incorporate the lift into a new extension and extensive home renovation project which involved widening doorways and creating level downstairs access throughout. The extension was on the side of the house and included a new office for the Kilburns to work from and run their education publishing business. The Stiltz travels on self-supporting rails up to a dressing room and second en-suite bathroom. “I don’t use the stairs at all now,” said Mr. Kilburn. “The lift has given me back full access to my home and has improved my life immeasurably. It’s great for carrying things up like suitcases. It looks good and is very easy to use. It’s a great idea.”

For more information call free on 0808 271 9080 or visit stiltz.co.uk -magazine.co.uk

67

Patient Care

A TECHNOLOGICAL

REVOLUTION A recent survey with OTs undertaken by personal alarm specialists PPP Taking Care, revealed that many OTs are struggling to carry out crucial parts of their role due to time constraints and pressures. Managing director of PPP Taking Care, Richard Turner, explores the difference that technology could make to OTs. We sometimes think of the ‘technological revolution’ as a very modern phenomenon but in fact new technologies have been making life easier for us all for a long time. It is the acceleration of progress and the level at which they impact us that has changed. Modern technology has come to play a huge role in all our lives, to the point that we sometimes barely notice that this is the case.

PATIENT ALERT

“I see a day in the near future when the benefits of technology are realised as a standard part of home care and are a daily support to occupational therapy.”

Take for example, the smartphone.

How many of us still think of having a smartphone as something extraordinary? And yet, we use them to keep in touch with loved ones on the other side of the world at the same time as doing our banking.

This is still an extraordinary thing, and we have yet to fully realise the true capacity of digital technology.

Digital technology has much more to give - particularly in the health and social care space. Meeting the increased demands of an aging population and an under-funded NHS won’t be easy in the coming years. Technology-enabled care represents an untapped resource for an over-stretched and underpressure healthcare community.

This is especially true for occupational therapy. We conducted a survey to understand the current working picture for occupational therapists. 66% of occupational therapists told us they do not have time to do crucial parts of their jobs.

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Patient Care

Numbers

66

%

For those working in the field and experiencing first-hand the pressures on the healthcare system, this statistic unfortunately will not come as a surprise.

The growing pressure on a resourcestrapped NHS makes transitioning patients from hospital to home ever more pivotal. According to recent statistics, in England alone, over two million hospital bed days were lost in 2016/17 due to delayed discharge.

It is no coincidence, therefore, that this is the area of the job in which our OTs reported themselves as most stretched, with only 44% spending most of their time supporting patients in settling back into their homes.

Increasing the effectiveness of this transition requires an analysis of the tools and support available to help. Asking what would make a difference to them day-to-day, technology came up again and again. Respondents stated that inhome technologies, which improve safety and independence on an ongoing basis for those who have returned from hospital, would better enable OTs to direct their focus elsewhere. Personal alarms and the supply and fitting of sensors, like fall detectors, were highlighted as something that would really have an impact. They could be a quick win for reducing workload and freeing up valuable time for other parts of the job.

“

“it strikes us that there is a big opportunity and need for technologyenabled care to support the needs of OTs and fill a gap left by failing home care businesses.”

“

of occupational therapists told us they do not have time to do crucial parts of their jobs

ARE WE SEEING A GAP IN CARE? Almost half of local authorities report that there are providers of home care that have ceased to trade in their area in the last year. In this resource-stretched environment, it strikes us that there is a big opportunity and need for technology-enabled care to support the needs of OTs and fill a gap left by failing home care businesses.

Providing compassionate care to improve the wellbeing of patients is at the heart of the OT’s every day and it is our focus to help make this happen. For those providing technology-enabled care, the onus is on us to listen to what OTs are telling us. At PPP Taking Care we’ve

done so - creating a service called Home & Well which gives patients transitioning from hospital back to their homes a personal alarm and a medical helpline, for six weeks for free. We know we cannot do the job of an OT, but we can provide much needed and valuable support which frees up time for other essential care.

I see a day in the near future when the benefits of technology are realised as a standard part of home care and are a daily support to occupational therapy. This advance promises to support the work environment for occupational therapists and give greater independence and control to patients.

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UNIVERSITY

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS day

M

ental health awareness is never far from the news agenda. More young people than ever admit to not taking proper care of their mental health and an astonishingly high number recognise issues with their mental health. It goes without saying how detrimental and devastating the ramifications can be. While sensationalist language splashed over red tops in the press is often criticised, there is no smoke without fire.

Get involved by attending events at your campus, tweeting #UniMentalHealthDay and #UseYourVoice

The new age of the digital dawn amplifies the need for support across society, but in the university sector, symptoms of ill mental health can become heightened with students getting caught up in the bubble of academic stress, financial strains, social demands and a sense of self in a sea of students.

To combat this, universities the length and breadth of the country are recognising University Mental Health Day on 7 March. Run jointly

by Student Minds and UMHAN, the University Mental Health Advisers Network, Uni Mental Health Day “encourages students and staff across the UK to run events and campaign to promote awareness and support for students at universities to manage their wellbeing.”

The theme for 2019’s event is “Use Your Voice”. While self-explanatory, ever-present prompts to speak up when you’re not 100% are necessary. With over 2.3million students enrolled at UK universities, the day is hoping to encourage people to speak up for the sake of their own mental health, but also to help cultivate a healthy and open culture in universities, that is supportive of others and a happy, safe place to be.

Numbers

of students report clinical levels of psychological distress

The official website states: “Being at university can raise a number of unique challenges to student mental health and wellbeing, with around a third of students reporting clinical levels of psychological distress.

With an increasing number of students accessing support services, an increase in the severity of distress and mental illness in young people, students leaving university due to mental health difficulties and, tragically the number of student deaths by suicide, we believe it does not need to be this way.”

Get involved by attending events at your campus, tweeting #UniMentalHealthDay and #UseYourVoice, and having conversations with your friends, flatmates, classmates and lecturers.

University Mental Health Day 2019 is taking place across the country on 7 March.

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71

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Adapting Vehicles

A SMOOTH RIDE Occupational therapists are increasingly helping to source suitable vehicles for their clients. OT Anna Trundle discusses her recent experience with wheelchair accessible vehicle converter Lewis Reed (WAV) Ltd. Lewis Reed, one of the UK leading wheelchair accessible vehicle converters, has recently completed an order for a Mercedes-Benz V-Class Grande for a customer in Hampshire. What made this order slightly different, was that the client’s neurological occupational therapist, Anna Trundle from Krysalis Consultancy, was heavily involved in the decision-making process.

The client, who has cerebral palsy and severe learning difficulties had previously had a vehicle from Lewis Reed, and the family were keen to once again work with the company.

Anna worked collaboratively with her client, their family and the team at Lewis Reed. A selection of vehicles were taken to Anna’s clients’ home so that a specialist assessment could be undertaken.

Anna stated that: “Undertaking a vehicle assessment is a complex process given the large number of elements that need to be considered, ranging from the specifications of the vehicle, the needs of the client and their family, planned vehicle use and client transfers.”

For this particular client it was

essential that there was enough headroom to access the vehicle in a powerchair, so that he could be safely and comfortably positioned in the rear of the vehicle. As his mother would be driving, it was important to also ensure she was happy with the vehicle.

Anna commented: “As an occupational therapist being able to assess and compare different vehicles at my client’s home was hugely valuable. After assessing the vehicles, it was concluded that the Mercedes-Benz V-Class Grande would be the only vehicle that met the clinical need. From my first conversation with the team at Lewis Reed I found them to be extremely knowledgeable and helpful. Once formal recommendations had been made and an order placed, we were kept fully informed regarding the planned conversion and when we could expect delivery. From an OT’s perspective I could not ask for a better level of service for my client.”

Wendy Poole, sales advisor at Lewis Reed explained that for the purchase of many WAV converters, working in partnership with a client’s OT

to select an appropriate vehicle is hugely valuable: “Having the input of a customer’s OT is extremely beneficial. Often the OT will already have a good relationship with the client and an in-depth knowledge and understanding of their medical condition and specific requirements.

As a vehicle converter, this information is invaluable as it helps us as an organisation to recommend the perfect vehicle along with all the necessary adaptations”.

Offering increased headroom space of up to 56.5”/1434cm, the V-Class Grande is available in two models: the Sport and AMG line. This vehicle allows customers the opportunity to decide how much internal height is required on the seated height of the wheelchair user. With this extra internal headroom now available taller wheelchairs can easily be accommodated.

Lewis Reed will be showcasing several vehicles from its extensive portfolio including the Mercedes-Benz V-Class Grande on stand N7122 at Naidex.

For more information call Lewis Reed on 0151 343 5360 or visit lewisreedgroup.co.uk.

Follow Lewis Reed @lewisreedgroup @LewisReedWavLtd

Visit krysalisconsultancy.co.uk for more information.

Follow Krysalis

@KrysalisNeuroOT @KrysalisConsultancyLtd

-magazine.co.uk

73

CPD HOLISTIC OT? DOES

REFLECT

“CPD is the holistic commitment of professionals towards the enhancement of personal skills and proficiency throughout their careers.”

This is the CPD Certification Service’s initial definition of what CPD actually is. Whether for those in the healthcare system or a completely different sector, CPD is a form of bettering yourself professionally and personally through advancing your career or professional expertise.

Everyone in occupational therapy is aware of this. But despite having a basic understanding of CPD, have you ever stopped to consider how the holistic nature of CPD mirrors and reflects the fundamentals of OT practice? Sometimes the thought of undertaking, recording and reflecting on your CPD can seem daunting – but you can turn it on its head and use your training to get you through it.

The official certification body states CPD is, “the term used to describe the learning activities professionals engage in to develop and enhance their abilities. It enables learning to become conscious and proactive, rather than passive and reactive.”

Sound familiar?

“Continuing Professional Development helps individuals to regularly focus on how they can 74

-magazine.co.uk

become a more competent and effective professional. Training and learning increase confidence and overall capability, and complements career aspirations.

“CPD enables individuals to adapt positively to changes in work/ industry requirements,” the website explains.

Creating a plan of action for your CPD isn’t too different to implementing a course of interventions to support your client.

When attacking your CPD, you can take a leaf out of your own practice book and work through it methodically like you would with a client facing a new task or challenge.

Before starting, realising the close correlations between CPD and occupational therapy can help give you a clearer picture. Identifying how

CPD can benefit and advance your own meaningful occupations and purposeful tasks is a good starting point. Obviously, it is a requirement you must fulfil to stay in a job. It is something that is meaningful to your life and in turn, finding an appropriate way for you to undertake it is important in ensuring success, so you may as well make it as personalised and meaningful to you as possible. Secondly, it’s role in increasing self-confidence, independence and fulfilment is very akin to the role of an OT working with a client on whatever helps them live their own normal life. If being an OT makes you who you are, then so does your CPD. OT is your meaningful activity, and CPD is the intervention to help you achieve it.

CPD Tips

ASSESSMENT An initial assessment can help you identify what you need to prioritise in your CPD. Ask yourself questions as if you were trying to find out what matters to a client? What are your daily tasks in your job? What do you need to do to improve them? Do you need to take a new approach? What kind of learner or doer are you?

Take the task at hand and figure out the best way to gain your CPD for it. Would a seminar or exhibition help you best? What about a training programme or course? Maybe hitting the books? Working out which method will gain the best end results, be enjoyable and suit you best as you go through it is a great springboard to leap into your CPD from.

IMPLEMENTATION Once you have chosen how you will achieve your CPD, it’s time to undertake the task. Remember, like OT, you can be adaptable. If you aren’t sure of something that is happening at a seminar, ask if it can be shown in a different way, or question its meaning. If you don’t understand something in a journal, try rewriting the sentence until you have made sense of it. Like OT, you can mould your learning into a system that suits you.

And don’t be afraid to ask for help or support. Learning is a collaboration, even when done individually.

REFLECTION AND MOVING FORWARD By the end of carrying out the CPD activity, you will need to record it.

But make sure you take the time to reflect on how successful it really was. Did you feel like you really gained something from it, or did it just tick a box and meet a requirement? Regardless as to the necessity of CPD, if you finish it and immediately brush it to the back of your mind, have you really grown as an occupational therapist?

Reflection doesn’t need to come in the form of an essay detailing

the process and reflecting on the challenges you faced. It can be the simple conversation with yourself, being honest about what you really gained from it. If it fitted like a glove, happy days! An enjoyable method of learning can be transferred into most CPD requirements, but if not, that’s OK. Just head back to the drawing board ready for a fresh start and keep optimistic. The holistic nature of CPD means it’s no one size fits all, but it can be personalised to keep you at the centre. Again, sound familiar?

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Student Focus

OTinPRACTICE OT student Manjinder Sidhu shares the experience of her first placement and how it helped her come to understand the reality of an occupational therapist’s role.

My first six-week placement on a two-year PGDip was in community mental health, with the Enhanced Recovery Team (ERT). ERT provides care coordination to adults living with complex mental health needs in residential care or supported accommodation. Adopting a Care Programme Approach, ERT addresses health and social care needs; enabling quality of life in community settings and supporting service users to live with increasing independence.

Enabling independence, however, is a complex aspiration to work towards as clients who have been in the system for years can become institutionalised or may not be well enough to progress.

Meeting my practice educator (PE) the week before starting was helpful; I knew my journey, dress code and had a sense of the setting and co-workers. My PE suggested some reading and I prepared draft learning objectives, which were a useful focus for supervision and kept me grounded during the initial overwhelm. The multi-disciplinary team (MDT) included care coordinators (social workers, community psychiatric nurses and my PE), a support time and recovery worker, consultant psychiatrist, junior doctor and a placement co-ordinator. As a first placement, still unsure of my ‘OT 76

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identity’, I felt confused about the distinctions between generic and discipline-specific roles; an issue that I later realised is an area of ongoing contention for OTs. Working in a MDT, I realised the importance of shared language and documenting in a format that has meaning for all; even if people did not always adhere to agreed formats. Each day began with a 9.30am ‘zoning’; a risk management tool using a traffic light system, held in front of a whiteboard displaying each care-coordinators’ case-load.

SBARD (situation/background, assessment, recommendation, decision) was used to discuss clients in the red/amber zone and different team members contributed. It was interesting to hear how each care coordinator from the different disciplines works with their clients and deal with unexpected events, for example, getting arrested for sexually inappropriate behaviour, refusing to take medication, going AWOL or aggressive behaviour.

I escorted my PE on visits to clients in their own homes in supported housing, in public settings and in a hospital. Initially, working in the community felt like an emotional roller-coaster, unboundaried and unsafe. But I soon realised that reflecting on my experience and considering professional boundaries,

in supervision and with colleagues, will be an ongoing practice as an OT. On a practical level, policies on lone working and risk assessment were essential reading. The range of issues that care-coordinators must consider felt endless - social/ family issues, symptoms, medication management, housing, legal, risk but I suppose this is what integrated person-centred care, as described in The Care Act (2014), looks like in practice.

“I felt confused about the distinctions between generic and disciplinespecific roles; an issue that I later realised is an area of ongoing contention for OTs.”

Student Focus

Initially, the interviews with clients seemed unstructured and rambling, but in supervision and looking through patient’s records, I could see how the information and understanding might contribute to a MOHOST, OCAIRS or HoNoS assessment. Using a roles and interest checklist, I interviewed a client and made a first-attempt at documenting the results; appreciating how long this takes to interpret the information!

As a mature student, with experience in learning support/art/education, I was given the opportunity to facilitate a series of weekly recovery-based peer support sessions for nine to 12 clients in a local community centre.

This was the most satisfying aspect of my placement. I felt useful to service-users, developed my group facilitation skills, experimented with ideas, interpreted/documented the experience using occupational frames of reference and theories, carried out a risk assessment for an outing; and discussed professional reasoning with my PE. Themes

included making graphite rubbings of found objects, sharing gratitude lists, a December kindness calendar and visiting the local library. The OT focus included self-advocacy; reinforcing participant’s views of themselves as occupational beings, allowing participants to explore unique personal interests/values/beliefs and affirming occupational identity.

I requested feedback at the end of each session (verbal and written) and invited participants to vote on decisions (eg. room arrangement, suggestions for future visits), realigning the power imbalance and encouraging shared responsibility for facilitating the group. Many serviceusers face stigma and social isolation, so a weekly peer support community where they feel welcomed, can share experiences without feeling judged and express themselves is important; as documented in their feedback.

Working in a busy team where resources are stretched, systems are bureaucratic, IT is outdated, staffing is unstable and performance indicators

“As a necessary for self-care and resilience, I’ve learnt that OT networking is essential for my wellbeing and a gratifying part of my OT identity.”

rule; was a reality that resonated with many of my cohort working in different settings. I appreciated the course structure, which meant we met every Friday at uni; shared experiences, supported each other, and if necessary, had an unashamed rant or laugh – it was priceless! As a necessary for self-care and resilience, I’ve learnt that OT networking is essential for my wellbeing and a gratifying part of my OT identity.

Recognising the limitations of a placement where there is only one OT, I shadowed OTs in different settings: on an acute ward, in a rehabilitation unit and at a Social Inclusion and Recovery Service.

The experience helped me to make sense of the OT process, make connections across different services and appreciate client’s journeys. I’m looking forward to reinforcing this on future placements. I participated in a Schwarz round and joined RCOT SS Mental Health and attended the conference Meeting Occupational Demands in Changing Times, which was a great opportunity to meet UK-wide OTs, hear about the latest research and take part in a hotly contested debate: ‘This house believes that generic working is the only way for occupational therapists to work in the current climate’.

The passion, commitment and fun expressed in the room was infectious.

My first placement has made meaning of theory and taught me so much about the reality of health and social care; transformative learning that could only happen by participating in the world.

Although a challenging journey, I’ve felt supported and continually inspired by the generosity of OTs I’ve encountered along the way.

I would like to thank my practice educator, Michael Osborne, and all staff and service-users at ERT. -magazine.co.uk

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BACK INJURY PREVENTION

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By Handicare Moving and Handling & Bathing Solutions Whilst many of us are aware that those who are regularly moving and handling the person they care for are at an increased risk of causing injury to themselves and the person they are caring for, statistics from the HSE Report (Oct 2018) suggests that there’s still room for improvement.

The HSE reports that 195,000 professionals within the health and social sector will suffer from work-related ill health. That’s the equivalent to 4.5% of the health and social workforce - occupational therapists, nurses and care workers, home carers and nursing auxiliaries, assistants – that report a statistically significantly higher

rate of musculoskeletal disorders than across all other occupations.

What’s more, a third of those with work-related ill health suffer from a musculoskeletal disorder, that’s approximately 58,000 bad backs that could potentially be avoided by implementing different moving and handling techniques; it is often the smaller things that we can do or the subtle changes we make that can reduce the amount of effort required to complete the task whilst simultaneously reducing the risk of injury to the individual or carer.

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Ethos workshops provide tips and techniques across a variety of CPD-accredited moving and handling workshop titles including – In bed Management, Sit-to-Stand, Handling Heavier Clients, Hoist Selection and Sling Application and Single Carer Management/Care Reduction Package. With a wealth of knowledge, the Ethos team are also able to develop bespoke educational packages, offering you training that fits around your requirements.

To request a brochure or for more information, please email ethos@handicare.com or visit handicare.co.uk.

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OTAC Events 2019 • OTAC Leeds

• OTAC Southampton

• OTAC Devon

• OTAC Newcastle

• OTAC Cambridge

• OTAC Kent

• OTAC Reading

• OTAC Cardiff

Wednesday 24th April

Occupational Therapist?

Say hello to the UK’s only FREE occupational therapy adaptations conference and exhibition.

Wednesday 1th May

Wednesday 12th June

Wednesday 10th July

Feel confident and competent when writing adaptation recommendations Aid you in discovering new skills and equipment to make their clients’ lives better and easier

Tuesday 22th October

Wednesday 6th November

Wednesday 4th December

Featuring:

Each year we help thousands of occupational therapists all over the UK access advice, to network, receive guidance and best practice for FREE! With all our locations around the UK, you’ll find an event that’s right for you, and when you attend an OTAC event, you’ll discover advice and help to:

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To book your FREE ticket for your local event or to find out more details head over to otac.org.uk Alternatively, call 02921 900402 or contact Sally at sally@promoting-independence.co.uk

www.otac.org.uk

Yourevents

IN THIS ISSUE we bring you this year’s round-up of events taking place in the OT calendar.

If you have, or know of, an event please email it into enquiries@2apublishing.co.uk

15-17 MARCH

26-27 MARCH

24 APRIL/1 MAY

BAPO 2019

Naidex

OTAC Leeds/Torquay

Harrogate International Centre The annual conference is back with an array of national and international speakers in the clinical programme and a dynamic exhibition, offering delegates the opportunity to hear and see the latest in research and innovation. bapo.com

NEC, Birmingham Naidex is Europe’s most exciting event dedicated to the disability, independent living and healthcare professional sectors. The free event brings together people with disabilities, healthcare professionals and industry standard manufacturers and suppliers. naidex.co.uk

Weetwood Hall and Conference Centre/Imperial Hotel The UK’s only free Occupational Therapy Adaptations Conference and Exhibition, at each event you will find expert seminars and exhibitors specialising in home adaptations and equipment with latest equipment and adaption guidance and invaluable CPD opportunities. otac.org.uk

18-19 MARCH 26-27 MARCH

Future of Healthcare Conference Olympia, London Organised in association with UKIHMA, a UK government trade promotion organisation jointly funded by the Department for International Trade, the Department of Health and NHS England, this event showcases products and services across all vertical sectors contributing to our future healthcare system. futurehealthcareuk.com

The Dementia Care and Nursing Home Expo NEC, Birmingham The free Dementia Care and Nursing Home Expo is the only dedicated trade show for care home owners.

CPD seminars led by exclusively selected speakers will provide unparalleled advice on how to obtain an outstanding rating from CQC, whilst keeping personcentred care at the heart. carehomeexpo.co.uk

21 MARCH/16 MAY

26-27 MARCH

Kidz to Adultz Middle/ South

European Neuro Convention

Ricoh Arena, Coventry/ Farnborough International Centre Free exhibition dedicated to children and young adults with disabilities and additional needs, their families, carers and all the professionals who support them.

100+ exhibitors and ten free CPD seminars. kidzexhibitions.co.uk

NEC, Birmingham The free Dementia Care and Europe’s only trade event for brain and spine experts.

Discover the latest innovations currently revolutionising the industry, and hear expert guidance through inspiring CPD accredited seminars neuroconvention.com

8-9 MAY

COPA Series ExCel, London Europe’s leading event for rehabilitation professionals to grow your practice and expand your professional knowledge.

The free event for OTs, physios, chiros, osteos, podiatrists and physical therapists. copashow.co.uk 18 JUNE

The National Healthcare Show City Hall, Cardiff The biggest annual all-day conference and exhibition on health care in Wales. Designed for anyone dealing or working in the health and care industry, the day will include innovative seminars, demonstrations and a products and suppliers exhibition. eventbrite.co.uk/e/ the-national-healthcare-show

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Not All People Handling Training Providers Are The Same

Successful completion of the EDGE People or Children Handling and Risk Assessment Key Trainer’s Certificate courses will provide delegates with the up to date skills, knowledge and tools to teach others in safer people or children handling skills and to conduct moving and handling risk assessments.

• Healthcare Professionals All EDGE Services Trainers are nurses, occupational therapists or physiotherapists with at least ten years clinical experience and at least ten years training experience in this field.

• Fully Accredited All our People and Children Handling Key Trainer’s certificate courses are accredited to Level 4 or above, are clinically endorsed and are officially recognised for providing continuing professional development.

All EDGE Key Trainer events comply with the following professional training standards; • The National Back Exchange Training Standards (2010) • The All Wales NHS Manual Handling Training Passport and Information Scheme (2010) • The Scottish Manual Handling Passport Scheme (2014).

Please contact our friendly office team to discuss your training requirements in more detail.

• On-line Resources and E-Learning Module Our training is supported by an extensive and informative on-line resources library and a user-friendly e-learning module designed for front-line staff.

EDGE services 01904 677853 enquiries@edgeservices.co.uk

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