The OT Magazine – Jan / Feb 2022

THE

MAGAZINE Issue 44 | Jan/Feb 22 | Improving Independence

Body Scanning Exploring the benefits of a fundamental technique at the heart of mindfulness

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COLU M N S

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PRO DUC T S

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CPD

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EVENTS

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MENTAL HEALTH

Making life easier for disabled people

If you are a healthcare professional, you may have clients who would benefit from the freedom and independence that the Motability Scheme can provide.

To order your free information pack visit: motability.org.uk/advisors

To find out about the Motability Scheme visit:

motability.co.uk or call 0800 093 1000

Motability is a Registered Charity in England and Wales (No.299745) and in Scotland (No.SC050642). Motability is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Reference No.736309). All cars, scooters and powered wheelchairs provided under the Motability Scheme are leased to customers by Motability Operations Ltd, who operate the Scheme on a contract basis for Motability. Motability Operations Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Reference No.735390).

About us

The Team

Editor: Rosalind Tulloch Staff Writer: Katie Campbell Designer: Fionnlagh Ballantine Production: Donna Deakin Sales: Danny McGonigle Contributors: Kate Sheehan, Jessica Latham, Kirstie Hughes, Kirsty Thomas, Maia Fergus-O’Grady, Clare Jones

This month’s issue...

A

Get in touch

new year, a new start, and hopefully a year filled with more positive experiences than the last two years. 2022 may feel like it’s getting off to a bleak start, and no-one likes January, but let’s remain positive and look forward to what 2022 has in store for the OT community – we have made it this far so I’m sure we can deal with anything that is thrown at us now.

2A Publishing, 20-23 Woodside Place, Glasgow, G3 7QL 0141 465 2960 ot-magazine.co.uk The OT Magazine @ot_magazine enquiries@2apublishing.co.uk

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 2022 © 2A Publishing Limited. All Rights Reserved. ISSN-2056-7146

The beginning of the year may be a good time to learn about the art of body scanning. It is a technique at the heart of mindfulness and is used to help you reconnect your body and mind, to keep you grounded and in touch with your body. It can be a helpful tool for yourself and using with your patients. Find out more on page 38.

Jessica Latham recently took part in a ‘designathon’ where she worked with others to develop ideas to aid people living with mobility impairments. Her experience showed just how valuable OT skills were in contributing to design ideas to help people live more independently. You can read about the design competition Jessica took part in on page 14.

November last year was such a treat as we managed to reunite with a huge number of OTs at The OT Show. It was great to meet so many of you there and to hear about some of the amazing work you have been doing, we are always looking for OTs to contribute articles on their work, projects, reflections and more so please don’t hesitate to get in touch by emailing ros@2apublishing.co.uk with any ideas.

We wish you all a wonderful start to 2022.

The OT Magazine, Editor

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

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What’s inside 26

07 What’s New

Bringing you up-to-speed with all the latest news from the health sector

13 Moving

and Handling

Kate Sheehan asks what OTs can do to support clients who employ carers when it comes to moving and handling

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14 Grand Designs Jessica Latham explores how OTs can use their skills to influence the world of design

16 Ten Years of #OTalk We catch up with Kirstie Hughes to reflect on ten years of weekly OT Twitter discussion

21 Product Focus The latest must-have products on the market 4

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25 Day in the Life Kirsty Thomas takes us through a day in her life working as part of a multidisciplinary team in a charity-led hospital in Wales

26 Understanding

OCD

How can OTs help people living with this much misunderstood mental health condition?

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38 41 New Sensory

Activity Project

Learn more about a new project in London that aims to encourage adults living with sensory impairments to become more active

42 The Art of the Scam Advice to pass on to vulnerable clients on how to avoid scammers

44 The OT Show A look back at being reunited for a packed programme of events at this year’s show

46 Taking the Wheel Discover more about what’s on offer for your clients at Driving Mobility Centres

50 Simple Stuff Works The team behind Simple Stuff Works explain the benefits of online assessments

Product

Focus 35

30 Out with the Old What can be done with specialist equipment when it’s no longer needed?

32 Working

from Scraps

Exploring the therapeutic values of scrapbooking

35 Product Focus More of the latest must-have products

38 Re-finding Yourself The role of body scanning in mindfulness

55 Paediatric Products Innovative products for your younger clients

59 Tools for Creation A new social enterprise that’s looking to get blind and partially sighted people to rediscover their love of art

62 Guide to CPD A beginner’s guide to tackling the vitally important job of recording your CPD

64 Events Calendar Essential dates for your diary -magazine.co.uk

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W E N

OMNICARE

ULTRA THE PERFECT FIT

FOR REPLACEMENT INSTALLATIONS

THERMOSTATIC CARE SHOWERS

DESIGN | SAFETY | SIMPLICITY

tritonshowers.co.uk/care-electric-showers

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

What’s new?

TRANSPARENT FACE MASK

APPROVED BY DHSC A new UKCA/CE certified mask developed by the Manchester based Globus Group has received approval from the Department of Health and Social Care for use in hospitals, clinics, and social care settings across the UK. The mask features a transparent panel in front of the wearer’s mouth, which enables them to communicate more effectively with people who may rely on lip reading and facial expressions, or people who live with hearing impairments, learning disabilities, autism and dementia. The clear panel is made of an anti-fog material, and is positioned to prevent reflection, thereby making the wearer’s mouth easier to see. It has also been designed with comfort

DRUMMING WORKSHOPS EMPOWER ADULTS’ PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH A new pilot scheme in the Liverpool City Region is providing an outlet for adults to improve their physical and

and breathability in mind, with Globus Group noting that healthcare professionals wear masks for hours at a time.

Haraldur Agustsson, chief executive of Globus Group, said: “During the pandemic, the difficulties faced by people with communication needs have been compounded by the requirement for healthcare professionals to wear masks, as they often rely on visual cues. I am proud that Globus Group’s clear mask has been given approval by the Department for Health and Social Care for use across the NHS and care sector. This shows our ongoing commitment not just to improving people’s safety, but to also improving their lives.

mental health through drumming.

Rhythm Reaction is led by former NHS worker Steve Shotton, he set up the social enterprise in 2015 and left his job to run it full-time in 2016.

It offers drumming workshops, therapeutic drum workshops, drum-a-cise exercise workouts, and drum lessons; they also work with groups and charities like Mencap and Maggie’s to empower adults who are, among other things, recovering from serious illness, or living with physical or learning disabilities.

The organisation are one of 22

“For three decades the Globus Group story has been one of continuous innovation. At the beginning of the pandemic, this enabled us to accelerate our plans to build two new factories in Britain, creating a fantastic manufacturing platform that means the UK now has a resilient supply of PPE. “We are driven to provide solutions for our customers, harnessing our research and development capabilities to create better products, using more sustainable materials to offer high levels of protection.”

which receives funding from Kindred, a social economy community funded by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and Power to Change, who provide an interestfree loan of between £10,000 and £70,000 to social enterprises, which is reinvested into other projects of the same ilk once it has been paid back.

Research by the Royal College of Music has shown that group drumming can help reduce anxiety and depression, and an additional study on the Rhythm Reaction druma-cise sessions showed an increase in mental health and wellbeing, with the sessions also raising participants’ heart rates to the levels needed for cardiovascular exercise.

For more information on Rhythm Reaction, visit RhythmReaction.org. www.

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RECARE APPOINTS IN-HOUSE OT Specialist healthcare and rehabilitation equipment provider Recare has appointed Grant Turner as its in-house occupational therapist.

Having previously worked as a Band 6 wheelchair, mobility and seating OT for Northamptonshire Wheelchair Services, his experience with mobility, postural care and pressure management made him an ideal fit for the role, having previously fulfilled

a rotational position at NHS Kettering General Hospital helping patients across a variety of units. He had also been working closely alongside Recare’s rehabilitation director, Tim Cox, with whom he shared premises, allowing them to form a “symbiotic bond” as they leased regarding patient equipment needs.

Grant said: “My role at KGH led to working for Millbrook Healthcare Wheelchair Services where I honed

GripAble expands with

hand therapist hire The award-winning tech company GripAble has appointed Liz Gwynne as hand therapist to their clinical team, who will aid the group in supporting occupational therapists and physiotherapists who wish to include the GripAble platform in their patient treatment and rehab regimes.

An occupational therapist with over 10 years of experience across both NHS and private practice, Liz joins the GripAble team from Spire St Anthony’s Hospital, where she had been working as a hand specialist.

Speaking on her appointment, Liz said: “I want to be part of the future of occupational therapy and physiotherapy, and my new role at GripAble offers me the ideal opportunity to do just that, by guiding and supporting fellow therapists on using GripAble’s smart platform to help patients reach their rehab goals.

“Through my clinical experience, I have gained a clear understanding of how debilitating loss of hand function can be for patients, and the impact it can have on physical and emotional wellbeing.

GripAble’s digital technology and

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service is therapist-led and takes into account the challenges both patients and therapists face when building motivation and engagement into a rehab regime. By supporting and guiding therapists on how to maximise the potential of the GripAble platform, I aim to help them achieve greater efficiency in their workflow as well as improved outcomes for their patients.”

my wheelchair assessment skills. This was perfect grounding for a role with Recare where I could be less limited on my prescriptions. Throughout my career I have always strived to go above and beyond for my patients so I guess you can say my expertise and talent have been released. My holistic approach to mobility perfectly fits with the Recare ethos. I am delighted to have joined such a caring and proactive team.”

GripAble clinical director Nicola Goldsmith added: “I am thrilled to welcome Liz to GripAble and the clinical team. Her in-depth, on-the-ground experience, clinical expertise, and passion for driving the medtech revolution within occupational therapy and physiotherapy make her the perfect fit for the role. We are continuing to grow our multidisciplinary team of experts at GripAble to help us reach more healthcare professionals and support them in implementing evidence-based practices and delivering efficient and effective therapy programmes for people with upper limb disorders.”

The toilet was installed with the assistance of Ropox, a leading UK manufacturer and installer of the accessible bathroom and kitchen solutions. It includes a Ropox StandardLine washbasin, an overhead hoist, specialist toilet, emergency alarm, shower trolly, and a controlled access door.

GLASGOW SCIENCE CENTRE ADDS CHANGING PLACE

Gerry McCann, customer service manager, said: “As we normally attract visitors from all over the UK and overseas, it is imperative that we can cater for people with all levels of mobility and independence and tapping into the knowledge and experience of companies such as Ropox certainly helps us achieve this.

Glasgow Science Centre has announced the installation of its sixth accessible toilet facility, which has also been registered as an official Changing Places site, open to anyone in the area who wishes to use the facility.

ABLEWORLD SCOOP AWARD TRIO Mobility retailer Ableworld landed three prestigious awards within quick succession last year, all within three weeks.

that is recognised by a leading endorsement. We would definitely encourage traders considering signing up to go for it.”

Ableworld was awarded Business of the Year at the South Cheshire Business Awards 2021 in late November, Which? Trusted Trader of the Month for December 2021, and Handicare’s Retailer of the Year 2021 in late December, completing a trio of prestigious awards in quick succession.

Speaking on the third and final award of the year, Mike Williams, managing director and founder of Ableworld, said: “This award comes as a recognition of the hard work we do in helping people live more comfortable and active lives, particularly during the past 18 months during the pandemic. We recognise that a Stairlift is a life necessity for a lot of our customers and therefore we continue to offer our 24 hour back up support and can install new stairlifts within days, providing the best possible customer service for our customers.”

After being awarded Which?

Trusted Trader of the Month, senior operations manager at Ableworld Sara said: “Being a Which? Trusted Trader gives our customers the confidence to deal with us, as it shows that we are a reputable trader

“Whenever we are making changes at the centre, we gather feedback from visitors to ensure we are going to meet their expectations and this is even more vital with our accessible toilet facilities as we want to make their time at the centre as stress free as possible. Once we had this feedback, we spoke to various manufacturers including Ropox and assessed their products before going ahead.”

Looking for an OT job?

ot-magazine.co.uk/jobs

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OT OPEN DAY SUCCESS After being unable to hold open days as a result of the global pandemic, Access BDD was delighted to attend an OT open day at the Dolphin Lifts showroom in Newcastle, where they were able to gain valuable feedback on their recently launched Flow X stairlift, alongside an assortment of equipment from other leading manufacturers who work with Dolphin Lifts.

Gary Crofts, Access BDD’s UK sales manager, who was on hand at the open day to demonstrate the Flow X, said: “OTs play a vital role in our business as they are often instrumental in recommending our

products so to have the opportunity to engage with so many in one day was fantastic. The showroom at Dolphin Lifts North is extremely well designed with plenty of space for visitors to view and try out the various products on show and I would like to take this opportunity to thank Stephen Smith and the team at Dolphin Lifts North for inviting us to the event and arranging such an enjoyable day.”

Healthcare professionals gave the open day good feedback, praising the benefits of having the equipment on hand and their uses demonstrated by professionals.

Susan, an OT assistant from Gateshead, said: “I think it is great to have events like this as we deal with a lot of different equipment and it is really useful to have a refresher to see what is new out there. I think the Flow X is great. Looking at it, at first, I thought there was a lot of features to operate and pass on to clients but having had a go myself I was impressed and I would certainly be recommending it to clients in the future. Equipment has come a long way in recent years and seeing the latest developments from various manufacturers in such a short space of time is great.”

YORK OTS SWING INTO NEW PREMISES York-based occupational therapy and sensory integration service OT4Me have moved into new premises, which features therapy swings and a climbing wall.

Set up in January 2020 by occupational therapists Lizzie Huxford and Louise Newton, who have a combined total of over 35 years experience in the profession, the move to a larger space has allowed the pair to take on an additional OT, Beverley Nunes, and an intern, and hope this will allow them to work with other specialists, like speech therapists and psychologists.

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Lizzie told The Business Desk: “With the approach and equipment we use, it can look to the untrained eye as though we are just playing with our clients, but we are carefully planning the activities to ensure that we are providing the right type of sensory input to work on neuroplasticity, to attempt to influence the brain’s wiring.”

Lizzie and Louise found assistance in locating their new premises from Ad:Venture, a programme that supports start-ups and young businesses within their first three years of trading. A grant given during

the first lockdown was used to help the pair work remotely, as well as get them in contact with a business mentor and offer them webinar training.

Councillor Andrew Waller, executive member for economy and strategic planning at the City of York Council, told The Business Desk: “OT4Me is a great example of spotting a need for local specialist support and taking the plunge during the pandemic to create a business in York providing help to individuals and their families which draws on the highly skilled workforce in the city.”

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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

MOVING AND

HANDLING ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES A

s occupational therapists, we are often involved in manual handling, assessments, plans and training. Making sure that we are meeting the needs and goals of the client and carer in the most dignified and safe way possible.

We are all aware of our legal duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act, 1974 and Manual Handling Operations Regulations, 1992 (as amended) to mention just two key pieces we work within. However, recently I have had to reflect on our wider role and how we need to think beyond the usual avoid, assess, reduce, and review approach, to think are we doing enough to support our clients who employ carers?

I have a client who employs a carer, and both have completed a twohour online moving and handling course, which states it covers 15 specific points. This equates to eight minutes per subject, and these topics included the following: 1 An introduction to the key principles of moving and handling 2 An overview of why ergonomic moving and handling is important to an individual 3 What the law states about moving and handling 4 The key principles of safer moving and handling of people.

We, therefore, should be aware of the limited amount of information that

can and is being given in a two-hour training session and the fact that none of the topic areas are going to be covered in any depth, that is where we as occupational therapists come in and can provide a more bespoke and personalised approach and understanding of the subject.

Going back to my client, on discussion she had limited understanding of her role and responsibility as an employer and using the HSE website as a resource, I was able to go over her requirements: 1 Recognition of the risks 2 Commitment to introducing precautions to reduce that risk 3 A statement of clear roles and responsibilities 4 An explanation of what is expected from individual employees 5 Arrangements for training and providing and maintaining equipment 6 Arrangements for monitoring compliance 7 A commitment to supporting people who have been injured in connection with their work.

Employers must then reduce the risk of injury to staff and people using care services by: 1 Avoiding those manual handling tasks that could result in injury, where reasonably practicable 2 Assessing the risks from moving

and handling that cannot be avoided 3 Putting measures in place to reduce the risk, where reasonably practicable.

In addition, they should have had an assessment identifying needs and risks, have a clear manual handling plan explaining how each task or move should be completed safely, have an annual review date identified and a policy that indicates a review is required sooner than a year if there is a significant change in the client’s needs.

We should also advise our clients to have the appropriate liability insurance in place and have a service agreement for equipment to be checked, maintained and LOLER regulations adhered to.

Her carer had also not picked up that she had responsibilities herself, which are clearly laid out on the HSE website as follows: Employees also have responsibilities and need to: 1 Follow appropriate systems of work and use the equipment provided 2 Co-operate with their employer and let them know of any problems, this includes checking equipment before using it to make sure it is fit for use 3 Take reasonable care to ensure that their actions or inaction do not put themselves or others at risk.

It is critical as occupational therapists that we clearly explain the legal duties of an employer and assist our clients and carers to provide a safe environment for all, this will achieve the best outcomes for everyone, reducing risks and providing the person being moved with as much dignity, choice and control as we can achieve.

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GRAND DESIGNS Jessica Latham highlights how OTs can apply their skills to influence the design world

I

am part of a wonderful local authority occupational therapy team in Bournemouth supporting children and young people who are disabled and their families. Our day-to-day intervention for children involves all manner of equipment, aids and adaptations a core resource for many OT roles.

Much of my time is spent perusing product websites, meeting with product advisors and considering if a product will meet the particular needs of a child and have a positive impact on their independence and wellbeing.

When you see a child with strong involuntary movements now able to chill and relax after school, or hear a sibling excitedly exclaim that their brother will now “be able to eat Christmas dinner with us,” all because of a well-designed piece of equipment, you realise how impactful good design can be.

Think for a moment about some of the items you own.

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Have you ever had something that feels like it was designed just for you because it works so well?

Is there anything you use every day that you really like, that brings joy through the way it was designed, both functionally and aesthetically? Have you ever had something that feels like it was designed just for you because it works so well?

For many of the people we work with, good product design is essential and not merely a luxury. It can be the difference between thriving and surviving, a deciding factor in whether they are able to do something or not.

Conversely, we’ve all experienced the negative feeling that clunky, poor design can have. This often results in products that ultimately don’t get used, or worst of all only add to the difficulty and frustration. Those purchasing specialist or disability equipment will also be used to the typically high costs, which often prove prohibitive for many families.

OTs and the people we work with are, in a way, at the mercy of what products are out there and how well they have been designed. So, what if we and the people we work with could be more involved in the design process?

An opportunity to do just this arose by way of conversations with a friend and some door opening tweets!

I was approached by Pete Beckett, founder of Ethiot, a tech start-up based in Guildford, to join him in an international Designathon run by Australian organisation Remarkable Tech.

This month-long challenge took place each week via Zoom and we were given the following design brief: How might we help people with limited mobility and speech to develop independence and autonomy in their homes through low cost smart home technology?

The Designathon guided us through a design thinking phase to consider each week; empathise, ideate, prototype and test.

A key part of the design journey was gaining insight from users living with disability – we were encouraged to interview and gain first-hand insights into individuals’ lived experiences. This was to be the basis and starting point for the process, leaving at the door our preconceived ideas or solutions.

To be honest, my understanding of the ‘smart home’ was limited, so initially I was unsure what value I could bring, but as the weeks unfolded I realised that my skills and experience working as an OT brought a highly relevant perspective.

There was once a time when environmental control products were considered specialist pieces of equipment, often accessed only via OTs, but now with the wide-spread adoption of smart home products from Amazon, Google and Apple, the scope for affordable environmental control is far greater.

One of our early insights was that voice-assistants such as Siri and Alexa are not only inaccessible for individuals who do not use speech, but that users who can use their voice don’t want to always feel the need to. Existing products that can only be voice-controlled are therefore designing-out individuals for whom environmental control could have a significant impact on independence and wellbeing. Pete’s knowledge and skills in electronic engineering combined with my perspective as an OT and invaluable user insights led us to develop our solution, Sofi.

Sofi, named after Pete’s younger sister who has cerebral palsy, is a wireless switch that integrates with users’ existing smart home ecosystems to control other smart devices. This enables users to interact by using the built-in motion controls, or by connecting up to four accessible switches, for example, a button switch or sip-and-puff device. Sofi is designed to be mounted anywhere, for example, next to a bed or on a wheelchair.

When we presented our idea at the end of the Designathon we were thrilled to be announced as runners up! You can see our original pitch video at click.ethiot.co/sofi. The design has been further developed since.

Other ideas we considered included a voice-activated ceiling-track hoist to allow hands-free control, which I’d love to see taken forward.

Being part of the Designathon has made me excited about the possibilities for individuals living with impairments, and for OTs in teaming up with the design sector. I would encourage OTs and individuals who are disabled to share their experiences and say yes to opportunities to be involved in design.

For more information: ethiot.co remarkable.org.au Twitter: @JLatham_OT

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Ten Years of OTalk #OTalk is a weekly Twitter chat that has been running for ten years, designed to enable discussion about occupational therapy and the broader academic discipline of occupational science. Run by volunteers, the #OTalk Twitter chats take place on Tuesday evenings between 8pm-9pm (UK time) and are suggested and facilitated by members of the #OTalk community (for example occupational therapists, students and researchers). Each host produces a blog post to introduce their topic and then leads the chat by asking a number of questions to start the discussion. To follow and engage in the discussion, search and use the hashtag #OTalk on Twitter.

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e caught up with Kirstie Hughes from the OT team to find out a little bit more about the history of #OTalk and what the future holds.

How did #OTalk begin?

The idea of #OTalk, or #OccChat as it was first conceived in 2011, had intended to be a way to bring occupational therapists together. Back then Twitter was still a new platform, but the founding team saw its potential for global connection, with this in mind the first #OTalk was held on 25 October 2011, the week of World OT Day. Many said it would never take off, or didn’t understand why the team felt there was such a pressing need to connect, but the team carried on.

Week after week they showed up, hosted and chatted, and over the weeks more participants joined and the word spread. In our ten years we have gone from a single digit of followers to a thriving community of over 22k occupational therapists, students and practitioners.

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How has #OTalk evolved over the years?

By 2013 our following had grown and the community had started to find its voice and were taking hold of some of the topics we had been discussing and really running with them, even asking for new things.

In response to this we introduced a Journal (Media) Club to allow a space to review and discuss academic journals and other media within the community. This was also the same year #OTalk was mentioned in the Francis Report, as a way to promote professionalism.

From here we started to grow the team with our student intern role and get more active within the profession, presenting at conferences and events.

2016 was the busiest so far for the team. We had an editorial published in the British Journal of Occupational Therapy, received a shout out from Julia Scott in the RCOT Annual Conference Plenary Speech, as well as a mention in that years Elizabeth Casson Lecture from Wendy Bryant. This was the year we also launched #OTalk Research which saw a subset of

practitioners join the team to host a research-themed chat once a month.

In 2017 we were in full swing with a larger core team, and a packed chat calendar, but no matter how busy the team became, both with #OTalk and our day jobs, we always worked hard to support our community to engage in CPD, to utilise social media safely and to reap the many benefits of engaging in CPD online. We published an article on the outcome of the #OTalk Intern Project and helped RCOT to gather views for their upcoming Career Development Framework. We also piloted our first #OTalkOnTour pre conference dinner offering solo travellers a chance to meet people prior to the conference.

Did you ever anticipate how popular it would become?

We pride ourselves and #OTalk on listening to our community and taking our cues from them and the things affecting them and the wider profession. In the early days they suggested topics and the team would run the chats, but the community wanted to be more involved. This led to chats being hosted by those who suggested the topic, which made sense as these were the people with knowledge and experience. We added the Research Team as the profession became more active within research, we now tackle topics that are not only clinical areas, but on politics and process. We’ve grown into a platform for practitioners to seek support, ideas and influence and because of this, organisations now reach out to us as a way to garner views or feedback which is amazing. It’s not something we expected, for example we recently supported RCOT’s new CEO Steve Ford to discuss the results of his “Talk to Steve” project and their plans for new strategic intentions.

Each of the team have their own areas of interest and

we all have what we refer to as “back up chats”, these are topics that we use to step in if ever a host cancels or we have a week without a volunteer, but actually these chats very rarely get used now. Each year our community continues to grow and bring new topics and areas for discussion, so much so we are booking chats months in advance which is something we could never have imagined.

What are the benefits for OTs participating in an #OTalk chat?

Within our community we have a wealth of knowledge and experience and #OTalk is a great way to tap into that. You can learn more about an area of practice you weren’t aware of or may be interested in pursuing, you can share your own knowledge on topics and give feedback on new policy or events that impact our profession.

Twitter chats as a whole provide valuable opportunities for CPD and a chance to engage with your profession, colleagues and regulatory bodies. They have become a ‘go to’ tool for social learning and sharing and can help you keep up to date with all the goings on within the profession.

Hashtags are a great way to follow events or campaigns. With busy schedules and lack of resources it can be difficult to attend all the courses and conferences we would like to, however Twitter can help to keep us in the loop! Just like the #OTalk hashtag, many events or organisations have their own as a way to curate information. For example, if you weren’t able to make it to RCOT’s annual conference you can still share in some of the learning on offer through the use of #RCOT2021. You can also check out #OTsForEquity #ValueofOT #LivenotExist #OTWeek2021 and #Twitter4CPD and find lots of valuable news, information and resources.

We pride ourselves and #OTalk on listening to our community and taking our cues from them

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Do you have any stand out moments over #OTalk’s ten years?

Being acknowledged within the Francis Report was a big moment for #OTalk and helped to back up a lot of what the team was saying about a need for discussion and debate and we took this further with the BJOT editorial. What always stands out to us is the willingness of our profession to tackle difficult and challenging topics. We get messages asking “is this too weird for a chat?” or “I know it’s a bit of a hot topic but…” and our answer is always “we can totally do this”. We love working with hosts to create chats that stimulate a respectful and professional debate, nothing is too weird for us!

What does the future hold for #OTalk?

We have spoken about completing research to look at the impact #OTalk has had over the years and contributing to the evidence base of social media for CPD. However, right now the team are looking forward to getting back to a time where we can connect with our community in person as this has been when ideas have sparked and we’ve been able to put faces to the social media names. Whatever the future holds we know the community will support us, challenge us and inspire us, and we are continually grateful for that.

Who is behind the #OTalk Team?

The current Team is Helen Rushton @Helen_OTUK, Kelly Murray @OTontheTracks, Rachel BoothGardiner @OT_Rach, Kirstie Hughes @Kirstie_OT, Carolina Cordero @Colourful_OT and Ruth Hawley @Ruth_Hawley. We are also joined by Dr Jenny Preston @preston_jenny and Dr Nikki Daniels @NikkiDanielsOT who are our Research Team.

We are currently looking for new team members, applications and more information can be found on our website OTalk.co.uk.

Twitter: @OTalk_ Instagram: OTalk_

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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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WHEELCHAIR COSY

These fleece-lined wheelchair cosies are perfect for keeping wheelchair users warm and dry when out on a cold winter’s day. They are waterproof, warm and easy to fit in seconds, they also come in their very own stuff-sac for convenient storage and travel. They come in a range of patterns to choose from. bundlebean.com | 0203 795 7225 2

HEATED SEAT CUSHION

Designed to be used in a car to keep bum’s warm on the seats. This portable cushion is anti-slip to keep it securely in place on the car seat and it has an intelligent temperature control that shuts off the heating at 60 degrees and switches back on when it drops to 40 degrees. The warmth can be great for people who feel the cold acutely and it helps with aches and pains when travelling. gadgetstalls.com

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THE AMAZON

The Amazon is a multi-functional turning bed that enables singlehanded care and hands-free turning with its automatic turning feature. The Amazon has the added advantage of growing with the individual. Irrespective of the height of the person this bed will fit and profile correctly.

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centrobed.com | 01233 635 353 4

NEW BATHING RANGE

Care & Independence’s new bathing range has been given a modern and practical update. New developments include 3D-Spacer fabric increasing comfort and body support, and improved hygiene control with easyrelease clunk-click buckle fastenings also allowing tension adjustment.

Tilt-in-space chairs, cradles, shower chairs and changing equipment provide flexible bathing solutions for those with special needs. careandindependence.com 0330 128 0808 5

THE HANDS STAND

This simple device is designed to hold on to your book or tablet to allow hands-free reading. The little plastic arms fold down easily to allow users to place their book or tablet in the grippy hands that will hold on tight and ensure it stays secure thanks to its spring lock mechanism.

Available in a range of colours. amazon.co.uk

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DODOW

A revolutionary natural sleeping aid, the Dodow is designed to help users drift off to sleep using a combination of yoga, meditation, and behavioural therapy. The hypnotic light helps calm busy minds and the guided breathing lulls you into a natural sleep. Set it to an eight or 20-minute sleep cycle and dim the light with a single touch. mydodow.com 7

HUANUO ADJUSTABLE FOOTREST

This ergonomic footrest is a great solution for helping with circulation and posture. It is adjustable to allow users to find the optimal position to ensure comfort when sitting at a desk in the workplace or at home on the sofa. The underside is non-slip to keep the cushion in place and the cover can be easily removed for washing.

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PLANT POT GRAB RAIL

Grab rails do not need to be boring and medical looking. Users can now invest in beautiful plant pot holders that incorporate supportive grab rails too. They make a stylish addition to the front door entrance of a home, adding a decorative touch while also providing much needed support. arthr.com

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n i y a d A .

Kirstyas Thoms works as

a ry Thom iplina Kirsty ti-disc l u m d fa rity-le part o a cha r o f ales team al in W hospit

What is your current role?

I’m an occupational therapist working for a leading charity in Wales - Adferiad Recovery at a unique charityled hospital for those recovering from mental illness.

Describe a typical day I spend a morning working with the nurse in charge to organise a morning meeting. The meeting enables patients and staff to understand what’s on offer, what resources are available that day as well as who’s cooking lunch and supper. We also consider any responsibilities that need attending, such as who needs to clean their room, what support a person needs or whether they need to access the laundry. I then spend some one-to-one time offering reviews or assessments to patients, this could include community assessments too.

Recently, I was reviewing a lady’s progress from swimming, she’d been swimming weekly to build her physical strength as well as selfreporting the mental benefits of her activity. In the review she spoke of

. f o e f i l e th

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.

Kirsty s a m o h T

her desire to sea swim. The next day a nurse colleague and I were in the sea swimming side by side with her to achieve her goal of floating in the sea again! I also spend time writing reports and recommendations for a person’s discharge from hospital.

What is the hardest thing about your role?

Being the only occupational therapist can be tough. However, I have a very understanding nursing team who understand my role in a person’s recovery. I hope to upskill the whole recovery practitioner and peer members in occupational focused assessment and intervention under my supervision. I am also clinically supervised by an OT based at the university closest to me. This link also gives me opportunities to take students.

What is the best thing about your role?

I am not restricted to the constraints of a large organisation and I have the luxury of working closely with people over a long period of time.

This pace enables me to see a person’s recovery first hand compared to previous acute assessment roles where often patients are discharged to their community team to continue their recovery.

The second-best thing in my role is working with my amazing team, who make me laugh and smile every day. Everyone I work with in the unit is so passionate about what they do and I think that’s what makes my job role so enjoyable.

You can follow Kirsty on Twitter at @kirstyot.

The next day a nurse colleague and I were in the sea swimming side by side with her to achieve her goal of floating in the sea again!

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UNDERSTANDING

Obsessive compulsive disorder is more nuanced than the “dirtphobic” characterisation it has been given by the media, and interventions by occupational therapists can be incredibly helpful in allowing clients or patients to managing day-to-day activities

O

bsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that is much misunderstood by the general public. People are not all “just a little OCD”; nor is the disorder solely about compulsively washing hands or cleaning, although that can indeed represent part of some people who live with OCD’s experiences. At its most basic level, a person who lives with OCD will experience obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours. Per the NHS, OCD can affect anyone, but symptoms will usually appear in early adulthood - but it can start affecting people during puberty or even childhood. Obsessive compulsive disorder is distressing, and it can prevent people from living full, independent lives at its worst.

Obsessive thinking is the first aspect of OCD: it is not simply being obsessed - in the way we use the word casually to mean we really like something. Rather, obsessive thoughts, images, or impulses will intrude constantly within their minds, and can be challenging or disturbing to the person experiencing them. These can manifest in any number of ways: obsessive thoughts may indeed relate to germs, and be obsessively concerned with contaminating things with dirt or germs.

People may even struggle with obsessive thoughts about their loved ones, or more violent or sex-related obsessive thoughts.

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Comparatively, compulsions are repetitive behaviours which people may engage in as a way to stop, lessen or “fix” the obsession. If someone is having obsessive thoughts about their kitchen being contaminated after cooking, they will clean it doggedly. Someone who experiences obsessive thoughts about their house burning down from leaving the oven switched on at the wall while they’re out may repeatedly switch the oven on and off to “prove” to themselves that it is, indeed, off and therefore safe. The nature of OCD is that the obsession demands the compulsion to settle it, which can interfere dramatically with a person’s day-to-day functions. People living with OCD will also regularly be aware that both the obsession and the compulsion they are experiencing is irrational, but this does not mitigate either.

It’s apparent that, for some people, their OCD acts as a barrier between themselves and completing their ADLs. In that instance, the intervention of an occupational therapist may prove to be incredibly useful and beneficial. With that in mind, what interventions or methods may prove useful in helping patients or clients learn to live effectively with OCD? Exposure response prevention (ERP), also known as exposure therapy or graded exposure, may be useful as a way to explore triggers in an environment which the patient or client feels is safe. It allows the individual to slowly and safely address situations in which they feel discomfort, anxiety or fear, dependent on how their OCD manifests, by gradually exposing a person to the scenario which triggers their anxiety in a measured and controlled way. Cognitive behavioural therapy is also

helpful to give clients a feeling of being “in control” when faced with invasive thoughts; in the same token, behavioural activation can help people living with OCD by setting goals that will allow them to engage in more meaningful behaviour.

Occupational therapists can also give clients or patients practical tools and techniques to help establish control over feelings of anxiety that may arise from dealing with obsessive and compulsive thoughts. These can include relaxation and mindfulness; yoga, breathing exercises, and meditation may be useful tools for people who find their OCD causes anxiety or stress.

There are other aspects through which occupational therapy may greatly improve quality of life - for example, people who live with OCD may find they have poor timekeeping due to compulsions preventing them from leaving their home on time - if they have to return to check switches or plugs, as an example. To help with this, occupational therapists may find it useful to outline goals and objectives that will help the client to get back on track, and feel in control of both their OCD and their timekeeping.

While obsessive compulsive disorder can affect an individual’s ability to complete daily tasks or activities, occupational therapists have the tools and understanding to offer interventions that can lead to a marked improvement in their quality of life, alongside appropriate care from other health professionals. The involvement of an occupational therapist in the care of a person whose life is in flux due to the symptoms of their OCD could be helpful in returning a sense of balance and, importantly, control.

People are not all “just a little OCD”

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Importance of Dining withDignity

The

Wiltshire Farm Foods registered dietitian Maia Fergus-O’Grady discusses the obstacles that service users with dysphagia can encounter at mealtimes

F

or many of us, mealtimes are best enjoyed with others. For those living with swallowing difficulties, however, the prospect of eating with friends and family can be one filled with anxiety and dread.

Despite a general lack of research, there have been some key studies looking at the social impact of swallowing difficulties, also known as dysphagia.

A study by Ekberg showed most patients initially seeing

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mealtimes as a great way to come together and connect with others, but since their dysphagia diagnoses, only 45% of individuals still enjoyed mealtimes; 41% of participants experienced panic and anxiety during meals, and 36% were consciously avoiding eating with other people altogether.

meals in a social setting. A service such as this has potential to reduce levels of anxiety or embarrassment for hosts preparing and serving food. This means that those with dysphagia are then able to enjoy a meal that they feel comfortable bringing to the table and any kind of social awkwardness is avoided.

A further study showed those living with dysphagia reported feeling embarrassed about their condition, a general disinterest in food since their diagnosis, and needing assistance during mealtimes as factors impacting their food intake.

It’s worth being aware of the impact that eating in social settings can have on those living with dysphagia.

If you have any patients or service users living with the condition, it may be worth checking in and seeing how they are doing; although a small gesture, it has potential to make a real difference.

Texture-modified (TM) foods are often one of the firstline treatments for those living with dysphagia; when texture is missing as a cue, the appearance and taste of a meal become even more important. With those living with dysphagia often eating less, it’s also important to maximise the nutrition available within each bite of food.

Moulded TM foods with distinct, identifiable protein, carbohydrate and vegetable portions often have a better visual appeal, which in turn has been found to increase consumption. These meals are also more likely to promote dignified dining, as the meals bear a closer resemblance to a regular plate of food.

Home delivery services enable those travelling to visit loved ones an opportunity to eat appropriately textured

Wiltshire Farm Foods has launched a new range of Level 4 Puréed Toasties so each of them now appears beautifully browned; enhancing their visual appeal and making them more appetising than ever. Choose from three delicious flavours: Bacon, Cheese and Tuna. All your service user needs to do is call the local branch to arrange for free delivery.

To view the meals and for more information, visit: wff.link/HCPrequest

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OUT OLD WITH THE What advice can occupational therapists give to patients or clients who may no longer need their medical or mobility equipment?

As occupational therapists you’re sure to know intimately that one person’s old mobility scooter is another person’s key to independence

E

verything has a limit to its usefulness; a stairlift may be an absolutely essential piece of equipment for a family until the person in the home who needs it is no longer there. A mobility scooter may fit someone’s needs when it’s purchased, but after a while their accessibility needs may change.

Sometimes, people just want to change it up. What, then, do you do with equipment that people no longer need for one reason or another?

It can be very tempting for some to simply employ the services of the local dump to get rid of these things, but in a world where waste is plentiful and disability or medical equipment can be extremely pricey, is it not better to make sure that someone else may be able to use it? As occupational therapists you’re sure to know intimately that one person’s old mobility scooter is another person’s key to independence, so what are the options when your client or patient needs to move on from old medical or mobility aids?

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RETURN THE EQUIPMENT Sometimes, the choice is made for you, and in a way that can be easier. If the equipment was supplied by the NHS, social services, or another support service, they’ll politely request the return of their equipment. It may be your or your client’s job to contact the provider and let them know that the equipment they’ve loaned out is no longer needed, and they’ll give you all the information you need on what will need done with it. It may be the case that they’re able to come and pick it up from its current home, or that it will have to be brought back to them. Regardless, the equipment they’ve loaned out, depending on its state and demand, will very likely be offered to someone else who may need it, so it’ll be spruced up and re-enter service with another person whose life it will likely change for the better.

SELL IT It goes without saying that the only time equipment should be sold is if it is owned outright by the client or patient - if no-one is sure who the rightful owner is, it’s worth checking with whoever supplied it in the first instance, that way no-one will be upset when it turns up on Facebook Marketplace. There are a few specialist marketplaces where mobility equipment can be listed for free, which is ideal as it gets your equipment in front of people who know exactly what they need, for free.

Using these two sites, sellers are contacted through a form, so their private details - like phone numbers or emails - remain private. Equipment could also be listed on more localised marketplaces, like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Gumtree. Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree are especially useful if people are looking to sell something locally - mobility equipment is pretty bulky and unwieldy, so it’s a tricky sell to send it via courier or have someone drive for miles to come and get it, especially in a global pandemic where people may still be isolating. Alternatively, some companies will buy back their own equipment, especially if it’s something expensive like a powerchair or stairlift. Motability Buyers will not only buy used equipment, but they also have the capacity to arrange for collection, if that’s something that is causing concern.

Legs 4 Africa break down prosthetic legs donated in the UK into parts and send then to mobility centres across Africa, where they’re made back up into custom prosthetics DONATE IT If the equipment is still in good condition, donating it is a selfless action, providing it’s something the client and their family are in a position to do comfortably. There are a good few charities which accept donations of medical and mobility equipment, based on their condition and location - The British Red Cross and Recycle Mobility Centre being two of them. The latter will repair and refurbish any equipment they receive, and they accept a huge range of products, from wheelchairs and power chairs to rise and recliners. Disabled Equipment Sent Overseas accept donations of disability equipment, such as crutches, walking sticks, Braille books, and hearing aids, and will use them to help disabled people living in Ghana who don’t have access to the equipment. In a similar vein, Legs 4 Africa break down prosthetic legs donated in the UK into parts and send then to mobility centres across Africa, where they’re made back up into custom prosthetics. The Jacob’s Well Appeal helps send medical and colostomy aid to people who need it around the world, so unopened ostomy equipment like pouches, lotions, and gels can be sent to them and redistributed to people around the world who need them.

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WORKING from

SCRAPS Could scrapbooking have applications as a form of therapeutic intervention for people living with mental illness, dementia, or other health concerns?

THERAPEUTIC SCRAPBOOKING Scrapbooking is a fun, crafty hobby, and much like crossstitching and adult colouring books, it has a multitude of positive benefits that can help people experiencing poor mental health, among a multitude of other things.

Research from Joanna King et al from the Therapeutic Recreation Journal showed that scrapbooking is an excellent way for people to help navigate grief, and can be incorporated into healthy grief rituals to help people who have experienced loss to connect with their feelings, verbalise their hurt, and connect with people. Jenny Douge’s research in Procedia from 2010 explored the benefits of scrapbooking as an application of narrative therapy, where scrapbooking helped children living with physical disabilities or difficulties surrounding their emotional behaviour, encouraging them to externalise problems and gain new perspective through crafting.

Scrapbooking may also have applications benefiting older people in a variety of ways. It might be beneficial to people living with dementia as it provides not only a way to preserve memories, but both a stimulating crafting activity and a memento that can be treasured and engaged with whenever the participant likes. It can also be used as an aspect of other kind of interventions: scrapbooks can be as tactile as the creator desires, using a whole host of materials which feel nice, make noise, sparkle, and twinkle. They can also be used as a kind of journal to chart feelings, thoughts and happenings, making them a powerful tool for both memory and self-exploration. As with many art-based interventions, scrapbooking also may assist in the promotion of community, too.

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...it’s grown to be the third most popular craft in the United States!

A 2013 study by Mouradian et al sought to explore the benefits of art-based therapies in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) as a means to decrease anxiety caused by stress and used scrapbooking as its primary means of therapy. The team concluded that when used as a brief intervention, scrapbooking promoted a statistically significant decline in participants’ overall anxiety, and participants said that the intervention distracted them from the stress of having children in NICU, as well as relaxing them, giving them something pleasurable to do, providing a sense of hope, and giving an opportunity to share their lived experience with others who also knew first-hand how they felt.

THE HISTORY OF SCRAPBOOKING Scrapbooking can trace its roots back as far as the 15th century to its ancestor, the commonplace books. Also called commonplaces, they had existed since antiquity, but in 15th century England, they were used as books in which people compiled recipes, quotes, poems, letters, and other information that they deemed important or significant. This developed into friendship albums; according to the British Library, these books emerged in the 16th century amongst German and Dutch speaking students who would go on tours of other European cities to complete their studies. On the way, they’d make paintings, drawings, or take notes of the places they’d been, including things like signatures, the coats of arms, and some even had interactive “lift-the-flap” pictures that you might see in a modern children’s book!

They functioned in a way not dissimilar to yearbooks, in which people on their travels might ask new friends to sign them and add a humorous saying. In a sense, they were like Ye Olde Facebook: a record of the friends they gathered on their travels that they could then show off when they got home.

Modern scrapbooking is thought to have been brought to the masses by American Marielen Wadley Christensen, whose volume of 50 ring binders full of carefully arranged family photographs and records gained her an invitation to the World Conference on Records in the 1980s. She and her husband A.J. published a pamphlet, Keeping Memories Alive, on how to scrapbook, and the pair opened a scrapbooking shop of the same name in Spanish Fork, Utah. This opened the door to many would-be scrapbookers, and now, it’s grown to be the third most popular craft in the United States!

Scrapbooking in the modern age no longer even requires the presence of the titular scrap: digital scrapbooking encourages people to create things using graphics software - like Gimp, Photoshop, or other specialist software - meaning it can be done anywhere that the crafter can access their tools, even on their phone!

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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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TABLET BEAN BAG TRAY

Users can now watch or read something on their tablet while enjoying a drink and a snack on their lap at the same time. The bean bag tray sits snugly, conforming to the contour of the users’ lap allowing for food and drinks to sit safely on top and a tablet can be held securely in a slot for browsing. springchicken.co.uk | 01865 671 450 2

CATHETER BAG

This beautifully designed catheter bag is designed to hold catheters, hand sanitiser, wipes, and disposable bags in each little compartment. It is then rolled up and can be discreetly tucked into a handbag. They are handmade and the pockets can be adjusted in size to hold different sized catheters on request.

Blossom and Best on etsy.com

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CHRONIC ILLNESS CARE PACKAGE

Filled with thoughtful treats, this care package would make the ideal gift for anyone living with chronic pain. The handmade box includes a vanilla and coconut scented cold and heat pack, turmeric gold Pukka tea bag for joint pain, handmade filled chocolate cups, bath dust, chronic pain badge, sweets, fluffy socks and a wax spoon for the spoonies.

Memory Lane by Megan on etsy.com 4

SAD THERAPY LIGHT

Seasonal affective disorder can pose a challenge for many people at this time of year. Introducing a SAD light to the home or work environment can help counteract the fatigue and low mood experienced by SAD. This lamp is portable, has three colour temperatures and five adjustable brightness levels, touch control and memory function. amazon.co.uk 5

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WELLNESS JOURNAL

If you have any clients living with mental health conditions or chronic illness, a wellness journal can be a great addition to their daily routine.

It allows the user to write down how they feel everyday, which is a therapeutic process in itself, and you can encourage them to write down one thing they are thankful for or that makes them happy each day.

It can have an uplifting effect, and reading back the positive notes can also help. papier.com

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EEZEEGO-LW1 FOLDING ELECTRIC WHEELCHAIR

6

Weighing in at just 24kg, this incredibly light, folding electric wheelchair is capable of carrying patients up to 23 stone. It is an excellent entry-level electric wheelchair which incorporates wireless remote technology for folding and is also available for hire as well as purchase. eezeego.co.uk 7

WALKING STICK STORAGE BAG

For anyone who wants to stand out from the crowd with a bright, colourful storage bag for their folding walking stick, look no further than this rainbow style. Practical and stylish, it features a stud cover at the top to secure the walking stick inside and a D-ring to allow it to hang on a coat hook, handbag or wheelchair. bluebadgecompany.co.uk 8

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HUGGAROO EMBRACE

A microwavable heat pad designed to perfectly wrap around the neck and shoulders to ease any aches or pains and keep users warm and snug. It is weighted to offer pressure stimulation and feels just like a warm hug. It is scented with lavender and the heat lasts for up to 30 minutes, it is also cordless so it can be used in the car or even out for a walk. huggaroo.co.uk

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Re-Finding Yourself It can be done any time, anywhere, and you don’t need any specialist equipment to do it

Body scanning is a mindfulness technique that encourages the neutral rediscovery of one’s body, including feelings of both comfort and discomfort f you’ve ever done a yoga class, you may have found yourself lying on the floor, being told to observe the sensations in your feet. The first time you do it, it feels really, really weird. It’s like being asked to feel your teeth or your nose: the only time you’re really hyperaware of very specific parts of your body, it’s usually because they’re cold, or in pain, or something else that’s likely kind of uncomfortable.

After you’re suddenly made aware of your feet, you begin the process of the “body scan”, that is, bringing your attention up throughout your body, as if your mind was like a tiny little MRI machine, and move right up to the top of your head. On your travels, if you feel any tension, your teacher will advise you to try and let go of it, or as much of it as you are able. It’s seen as an opportunity to kind of “check in” with each part of your body, because like we said - how often do you really acknowledge your feet, teeth, or nose?

Occupational therapists are already well-versed on the benefits of mindfulness: per Psychology Today, mindfulness can help people to reduce their stress levels, and is beneficial for people who live with anxiety and depression - which is why it’s used as part of cognitive behavioural therapy.

It can also help people who struggle with obsessive, repetitive thinking, known otherwise as rumination. However, it’s not for everyone - writing in a blog for the same magazine, Tchiki Davis PhD notes that while mindfulness can absolutely be beneficial for some people, it requires a degree of open-mindedness to achieve, and at the same time, may also do more harm than good in people who have experienced trauma, but then it’s not a onesize-fits-all solution. She also noted that people “not having enough time” can be a barrier to its utilisation and effectiveness.

For people who may struggle to fit mindfulness into their days, this is where body scanning might come in

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handy. It can be done any time, anywhere, and you don’t need any specialist equipment to do it. If you have a few minutes on your daily commute, when you’re watching TV in the evening, or even when you lie down in bed, you can take a few minutes to cultivate mindfulness through body scanning. As you likely already know, the technique is fundamental in many mindfulness courses, but it’s important to note that - as Mindful points out - this is not one that is designed to instil a sense of calmness in you, but if calmness comes, it may be an added bonus. The intention of a body scan is to bring awareness about our bodies into our minds. It’s a way to ground ourselves, and bring everything back into synchronisation; it’s an opportunity to cut through any noise in our minds that may be hampering our connection to our bodies, and essentially check in with every aspect of our forms.

The publication Mindful also notes that body scans practice seven different aspects of mindfulness: it trains our ability to pay attention; it increases our awareness of our bodies and minds, even if what is brought to our attention is not altogether positive; it “removes us” from our heads and refocuses our attention away from the mind; it encourages us to examine ourselves as is, without the motivation to change or correct; it allows us to lean into discomfort we may face in our bodies without the need to “escape” from them; it increases our appreciation for our own bodies; it helps us understand the often transient experiences of discomfort in our bodies.

If you’ve never practised a body scan before, how do you go about it? The easiest way is to try for the first time is using an audio guide, as it offers guidance on how to go about the process the “correct” way. There are lots of different ways to try it: YouTube offers lots of different videos that you might find helpful in getting you into body scanning, but it’s also part of the Headspace app too and can be tried for free on their website.

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Occupational Therapists play a key role acting as expert witnesses in clinical negligence and personal litigation.

We require experienced Occupational Therapists specialising in all clinical areas, especially those working in the fields of amputation, spinal cord injuries and elderly care/dementia, who are confident, have excellent communication skills (verbal and written), enjoy a challenge, are intrigued by the forensic nature of this work, and above all are keen to learn new skills.

We offer: Casework to fit in with other work; you work on a self-employed, flexible basis, alongside your “day job” Excellent remuneration Opportunity to subscribe to our Annual Training and Resource Package You will be working at a senior level with a minimum of 8 years’ post qualification experience as an Occupational Therapist Previous medico-legal experience not essential

“

Thank you so much for everything you have done for me at Somek. I’ve always felt so privileged to work for such a reputable and professional company! My training has always been excellent and the support second to none.

I have learnt so much.

Somek and Associates Expert Witness

“

01494 792711 admin@somek.com www.somek.com

New Sensory Activity Project

The Sensory Alliance has launched a new project in London to encourage adults living with sensory impairments to become more active

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ast year the Sensory Alliance, a partnership between the charities British Blind Sport, Sense and UK Deaf Sport, was awarded a grant from the Tackling Inequalities Fund to help older people with sensory impairments become more active.

The project was launched on 9 November 2021, and its initial focus is on the boroughs of Barnet, Bromley, Bexley, and Croydon, but it is open to anyone over the age of 45 in London who has a sensory impairment.

Individuals who register for the project will receive an accessible, downloadable activity pack containing a variety of activities that they can do alone or with friends and family in their homes or local spaces.

In addition, The Sensory Alliance will be providing training opportunities to assist local partners and organisations in becoming more confident in delivering inclusive activities to those with sensory impairments.

Research conducted by RNIB and Action for Hearing Loss has shown that there are 2 million d/Deaf adults and over 200,00 blind or partially sighted adults currently living in London. This research also showed that transport issues, lack of communication, poor mental health and low self-esteem were common barriers for adults living with sensory impairments to participating in activities.

The pandemic was also identified as an issue that has increased isolation and decreased physical activity among people living with a sensory impairment in London.

The project aims to reduce isolation and support individuals to increase physical activity in a safe and

social environment.

Rosie Wilson, Oomph! senior marketing and relationship manager said: “There has never been a more important time to focus on the wellbeing of older adults. That is why Oomph! whole-heartedly supports the Sensory Alliance’s new project as a fantastic opportunity to engage older people with sensory impairments in getting active. We’ve seen first-hand that the best way to encourage physical activity is to make it fun, inclusive and adaptable – which is exactly what this project will achieve.”

Alex Pitts, national partnerships manager at British Blind Sport said: “British Blind Sport understands that this has been a particularly difficult time for people with disabilities. We believe that physical activity has the power to improve lives and hope that our new project, in partnership with the Sensory Alliance, will encourage older people with sensory impairments to get back into sports and reconnect with their community. People can get involved in a variety of ways, from participating in challenges to learning new skills.”

GET INVOLVED

You can download the activity pack from the Sensory Alliance website at ukdeafsport.org.uk/sensoryalliance and use this to get your adult patients living with sensory impairments more active this year.

You can also share your story on social media channels if you have used the activity pack or found a local activity via the Sensory Alliance website. Share photos and stories using #ActiveSensoryLDN.

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ARTOF THE

SCAM THE

Vulnerable people are at higher risk of being scammed than any others - what advice can you give to clients, patients or the families of people who may fall victims to these scams?

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s OTs, many of your patients or clients will be vulnerable people who you will develop a close professional relationship with, and engage with on a personal level. Unfortunately, vulnerable people - including the elderly and people who live with some learning disabilities - are also the most likely to become the victims of scams.

The pandemic isolated many people, and this factor has been capitalised on by criminals who have tailored scams to fit the way the pandemic has changed our lives. Fake vaccine appointment texts, fraudulent messages about a PCR test that was never taken coming back positive, scam emails from the “government” telling people they are eligible for financial support as a result of the pandemic - the list goes on. While people have been working harder than ever to get by in these - excuse the parlance - unprecedented times, scammers have been working smarter to separate those hard working people from their money in the slimiest possible ways.

For some people, it’s immediately obvious when they’re 42

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being scammed. You might be one of those people who knows immediately to Google a weird phone number after you miss a call from them instead of phoning them back, or to never accepting a friend request from someone you don’t know on Facebook. But for those not in the know, it can be absolutely terrifying to get a text that claims you owe HMRC thousand of pounds which you may not have, or something similar. Late last year, an elderly woman in Forfar, Scotland, was scammed out of thousands of pounds when scammers posing as plainclothes police officers contacted her to inform her that there had been suspicious activity on her bank card, and coaxed her into withdrawing thousands of pounds and purchasing a watch that cost a five-figure sum, as reported by the Scottish Sun. Even experts can be bamboozled by scammers - YouTuber Jim Browning, whose entire channel is dedicated to exposing scammers and helping people who fall victims to their schemes, lost said channel last year after being tricked into giving up his YouTube page by a very convincing scam artist!

HELPING AFTER SCAMS It can be really embarrassing to be a victim of a scam; while it’s not something anyone should feel embarrassed about, there’s a sense of real shame that comes with “falling for it”. But scammers are experts in spinning a convincing story, and what’s important is that, if a person becomes the victim of a scam, that they get the right kind of help afterwards to make sure it doesn’t happen again. It’s important to try and work out which variety of scam they’ve been a victim of. Independent Age lists these as some of the main types of scams that people unfortunately fall for: 1 Investment scams, where people are offered investments with supposedly massive returns; 2 Pension scams, which operate similarly to investment scams but specifically involve pensions; 3 Phone scams, like fraudulent calls from people pretending to be from Microsoft, or accidents you were never involved in; 4 Post and email scams, like lotteries or prize draws, pyramid schemes, or phishing emails that try to get

you to tell them your bank details; 5 Doorstep scams, like bogus callers and rogue traders; 6 Relationship scams, where a person tries to get someone to enter an online relationship with them under the guise of extorting them for money or expensive gifts.

If the scam has already taken place - for example, the person has already given their details or sent money - it’s not too late to do something. Reporting it to the police is the first step, and consumer rights websites like Which? and Citizen’s Advice can walk you through the process of helping someone to try and get their money back. If the scam was very recent, you can also call the victim’s bank, who may be able to put a stop on their card or even the payment. Reporting it to Action Fraud can also be helpful, as they can provide support and help stop the scam going further. Victims should also seek practical and emotional support; if they’re in England or Wales, Victim Support can help those affected by crime, including scams. Mind’s helplines can also offer support and provide information.

...what’s important is that, if a person becomes the victim of a scam, that they get the right kind of help afterwards to make sure it doesn’t happen again

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

1 According to Independent Age, there are six tell-tale signs that indicate that someone vulnerable may be the victim of a scam:

2 A large amount of junk mail, owing to scammers having sold their personal details to others of their ilk; 3 Lots of strangers visiting their home or calling them this is also due to their information being sold; 4 A sudden lack of money, as scammers may have forced them to buy something, like gift cards, or take large sums from their bank accounts; 5 Defensiveness when speaking about finances, due to embarrassment or anger stemming from the above, 6 Lots of deliveries at their home when there wasn’t before; 7 Unnecessary work being done to their house, due usually to scams from rogue traders.

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Reuniting the OT community

The Occupational Therapy Show 2021 saw the biggest gathering of occupational therapists in two years

to voluntary organisations, plus many more. To see the OT community reunite and meet each other in real life after supporting one another online for over a year “was an empowering and exciting experience” commented specialist practitioner occupational therapist Janet Tulip.

n the 24-25 November 2021 The Occupational Therapy Show welcomed thousands of occupational therapists of all bands and specialisms back to the NEC, Birmingham for the mustattend event in the OT calendar. It had been two years since the last edition, making it the first major reunion for the OT community since the pandemic began. It brought together a multitude of different practitioners from health organisations, social care services, housing, education,

The OT Show is a place to educate, inspire, and raise the profile of an important allied healthcare profession.

The two-day event consists of a comprehensive free conference programme, with over 270 leading healthcare suppliers in the exhibition hall and is a place to facilitate important discussions through networking.

This year there was a real buzz in the air as visitors, exhibitors and world-class speakers came together once more. Suki Shoker, occupational therapy assistant

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commented: “Very informative, an enjoyable day to learn and explore new products and equipment.”

The Occupational Therapy Show highlights included welcoming some very important people to the OT community reunion, including Baroness Tanni Grey Thompson DBE, DL, one of Britain’s greatest Paralympic athletes, and the hilariously funny Lee Ridley AKA Lost Voice Guy, winner of Britain’s Got Talent 2018.

Baroness Tanni Grey Thompson DBE, DL, competed in five Paralympic Games winning 11 gold medals, four silvers and one bronze and is acknowledged as one of the most gifted and courageous sportswomen of her generation. Her session on Wednesday 24 November was a hit, with huge queues of people waiting for her talk Seize the Day to begin. She discussed her own personal experience of being a wheelchair user, moving from sport to politics, and what would be next for disabled people.

The second VIP couldn’t join in person due to COVID-19.

However, that didn’t stop visitors from taking the rare opportunity to attend the session virtually and have Lee Ridley AKA Lost Voice Guy answer their questions.

Since making his first stand up performance, Ridley has gained quite the reputation for being both very funny and unique. He hosted his session at The Occupational Therapy Show on Thursday 25 November where he talked about living with a disability and how occupational therapy helped get him to where he is today. It was incredibly insightful listening to him discuss what it was like growing up without a voice and how he turned that into an advantage to become the successful comedian he is today.

In-person learning has been especially missed during this pandemic. The Occupational Therapy Show 2021 meant that individuals could finally access hours of live content, engaging with speakers and peers for an enriched education experience. Visitors could choose from over 100 CPD-accredited interactive lectures and practical workshops across six different theatres. The programme had been carefully curated into seven clinical content streams; innovation, mental health, inclusivity, neurology, moving and handling, paediatrics, and housing, making it easy to find everything visitors were looking for. Some of the unmissable sessions included: 1 Integration across health and social care, embedding moving with dignity in a SHC approach Deborah Harrison, managing director A1/honorary lecturer University of Salford - A1 Risk Solutions Ltd/ University of Salford Jo-Anne Webb, occupational therapist Rehabilitation for Independence 2 Sex after stroke - unlocking the taboo Dr Kate Allat - inspirational speaker, GripAble Ambassador, internationally published author and columnist for Stroke Rehab Times 3 Service User, Student, Occupational Therapist Georgia Vine, qualified occupational therapist - Not So Terrible Palsy blog Last but not least, a special mention for The Occupational Therapy Show Poster Zone, a space on the show floor for thought-provoking submissions on what OTs have been working on over the past two years.

A big well done to everyone who submitted - taking the time to share their findings and a huge congratulations to the winners on each day.

The Occupational Therapy Show would also like to thank everyone who visited and supported the 2021 edition, what an incredible turn out! CloserStill Media have already begun organising next year and it is set to be even bigger and better!

2022 registration isn’t open just yet, but if you want to stay up to date with the latest news and be the first to know what is in store for the 2022 edition, sign up to the mailing list by visiting: theotshow.com/otmag2022.

The Occupational Therapy Show returns to NEC, Birmingham on 23-24 November 2022 - save the dates!

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Taking the Wheel

Find out more about helping your clients maintain their independence through Driving Mobility centres

D

riving Mobility had one of their busiest shows ever at The OT Show in November 21, with over 300 occupational therapists visiting their stand to find out more information about their organisation.

Each enquiry was very detailed, but there were some general questions that were frequently asked. The Driving Mobility team have put together the top 10 questions and answers from the show to give OTs an insight into their work.

Occupational therapist and assessment team manager Clare Jones, from the Regional Driving Assessment Centre answers the top 10 questions that came up at the show.

01

Who are Driving Mobility?

Driving Mobility was set up to coordinate 21 independent driving and mobility assessment centres across the UK supported by the Department for Transport. We provide professional information and assessments to enable, disabled, young and elderly people the opportunity to retain their ability to drive and maintain independence.

02

How are clients referred for a driving assessment?

There are various ways for clients to be referred to a mobility centre. If they are undergoing medical enquiries for driving licencing purposes, they may be referred by DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority). Health professionals can refer directly to a mobility centre when they feel their patient requires advice on vehicle adaptations, or to access a vehicle, or if they have concerns over their fitness to drive. Motability will refer clients to our centres and also clients can also refer themselves. Fees vary between mobility centres and some will offer assessments free of charge, but always check.

03

Do clients need a provisional licence and theory test?

Most centres will require clients to have a driving licence for the purpose of an assessment, as without this we can only see them at an off-road facility, and these are difficult to find and very limited in what can be assessed. The driving licence can be provisional, section 88 covers, full licence or PDAL (Provisional Disability Assessment Licence) which is provided by DVLA for the purpose of an assessment or driving tuition.

04

What happens when the client arrives at a DM Centre?

They are welcomed by the team and the assessment process is explained to them. They are asked about their expectations and what they would like to achieve during their visit. A family member or friend can accompany the client if they would like support. The client will be asked various questions about their medical and driving history to establish their needs and in order to offer them advice.

The client will then be able to look at and try out equipment and adaptations and have a drive if this is part of their assessment. Following this, verbal advice will be provided and recommendations. Our recommendations can include equipment, adaptations and options on how to source and fund these. It can also include advice on fitness to drive. All clients receive a written report outlining what has been discussed, recommendations and signposting to the relevant services including adaptation companies, driving instructors, wheelchair accessible vehicle conversion specialists etc.

05 06

How long should an assessment take?

The assessments usually take up to two hours.

Is a report generated and who receives this?

The referrer will always receive a copy of the report and often a copy to the client, except in the case of DVLA referrals where the report just goes to DVLA, but clients can ask DVLA for a copy of their assessment report.

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Are there any services for car passengers?

We believe the passenger is also an important consideration. Our centres offer passenger assessments including difficulties getting in and out of a car, travelling safely in a vehicle in your wheelchair, loading and stowage of any equipment.

What if the client fails the assessment?

We work hard to offer as many options as possible to maintain a client driving safely, but there will be times when we have to recommend that someone should no longer drive.

Our staff are aware that this decision can be difficult for the client to accept, but we will always discuss this sensitively as there may still be other options of independent mobility available. Some mobility centres are starting to offer the HUBS scheme which is aimed at supporting clients with other forms of independent mobility where use of a car is no longer an option. This could include accessing public transport, community transport schemes, mobility scooters, shop mobility and other community opportunities, but always focusing on the individual client needs.

If you need specific help please visit the Driving Mobility website to find your nearest centre at drivingmobility.org.uk/find-a-centre, or you can email info@drivingmobility.org.uk.

07

Can cars be fitted with hand controls?

Cars with automatic transmission can be fitted with a variety of hand controls. This is also possible in vehicles with manual transmission, but generally not recommended, due to the complexity of tasks involved in driving such a vehicle.

It is always best to check with an adaptation company about compatibility of adaptations with a vehicle before committing to purchasing or leasing a new vehicle.

08

Can clients get funding?

Clients who are in receipt of the highrate disability living allowance (DLA) or enhanced personal independence payments (PIP) for mobility are eligible for the Motability scheme. Also, people in receipt of the war pensioner’s supplement and the Armed Forces Independence Payment. Motability provides vehicles on a 3-year lease in exchange for the weekly financial allowance.

They subsidise the cost of adaptations and also offer grant funding to people who need it most. Vehicles are insured, taxed and serviced, so the client has peace of mind and only require fuel.

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Paediatrics All the latest from the world of paediatrics

SECTION 022 is a brand new year, and it is one filled with hope. After the year (or years at this point? Who can count anymore) of uncertainty, confusion and distance, we can but hope that 2022 is the year where we can get back into doing things the way we used to, while carrying over the new things we’ve learned that work really well for us that we we discovered during the pandemic.

2

With that in mind, this issue, we spoke to sister Anna Goldsmith and Sarah Clayton about their online assessment service at Simple Stuff

Works, which has helped healthcare professionals carry out over 2000 sleep system assessments online since the beginning of the pandemic.

Their assessment service helps to bridge the gap between face-to-face assessments and keeping vulnerable people safe. Read more on page 50.

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We also have a host of brilliant products for your younger clients on page 55 to facilitate their movement, imagination, and much more. As ever, if there’s anything you would like to see featured in The OT Magazine, don’t hesitate to email us at ros@2apublishing.co.uk.

Read on to find out more...

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SIMPLE STUFF WORKS Simple Stuff Works are using an online assessment service to reach more people and help OTs facilitate assessments with everyone involved in a patient’s care

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ver the last 10 years, in addition to offering faceto-face assessments here in the UK, Simple Stuff Works has been supporting its overseas clients with remote online consultations. During this time, the company, which is headed up by sisters Anna Goldsmith and Sarah Clayton, and James Hellewell, has gained a reputation as one of the leading manufacturers and suppliers of sleep positioning systems and training in the UK and overseas.

As the spread of COVID started to take hold in the UK, Anna and Sarah soon realised that face-to-face assessments were not going to be feasible and set about expanding their remote assessment programme as Anna explains: “As our work involves supporting some of the most vulnerable people in society we recognised that we could not put them at risk by continuing with face-to-face consultations and we also wanted to protect the health of our staff. We knew that online consultations worked given the fact that we had supported so many of our overseas customers this way but we were amazed at the positive response from our customers here in the UK. The fact is that face-to-face assessments never actually guaranteed the success of a sleep system and if anything, could at times give the wrong impression. For example, someone may not enjoy trialling some equipment for 20 minutes, in the middle of the day, out of their routine. They may also feel stressed with lots of strangers in their bedroom and therefore, due to their negative response, it’s deemed the kit isn’t going to work. Conversely you may have a great face-to-face consultation where the equipment looks good but the actual implementation of it during the night proves far more challenging. Our remote consultations mean we can see the person in their own space, with their family, and then our support afterwards allows us to build up a plan which will allow the person time to adapt to the equipment carefully and gently”.

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The first three months of using a sleep system are the most important according to The Mansfield Project published in 2000. Sleep systems are very different to other pieces of equipment as it isn’t a case of ‘fitting it’ and moving on. They are constantly needing to be adapted as the person’s body shape hopefully improves and so families need a great deal of support to do this.

The team at Simple Stuff Works are on hand to support therapists and families with an unlimited review service as and when this is required. While they did always pride themselves on the level of support provided before COVID, it was more limited due to travel and time constraints. However, now families can book directly with the team, as often as they want, for support and advice to help them to feel confident with the equipment they are using.

The platform used by Simple Stuff Works for assessments is a verified medical platform that is fully GDPR compliant and data protected. The company has so far completed over 2000 online assessments since the beginning of the pandemic in 2020.

The online assessment service has simplified the booking process allowing OTs to find a time that suits them and their client. The online consultation also means that many people can attend, including the child, their family, an OT, physio, district nurse, Simple Stuff Works and their consultant. This previously would have either been very hard to coordinate or would have involved people spending hours in the car.

“From our perspective, by using the online service we are now able to support far more families. Pre-pandemic, I would think nothing of jumping in the car, driving for three and a half hours to conduct an assessment in Newcastle and by the time I was back in the office most of the day was gone. Now I can support a family in Plymouth at 9am, followed by an assessment with another family at 11am in Glasgow, then attend meetings with OTs and their clients in Norwich and Holland. So, not only are we helping more families but we are also drastically reducing our carbon footprint and estimate to have saved 34 tonnes of carbon per year. Our ultimate goal is to be a net zero company by 2030,” explained Sarah.

The Simple Stuff Works team has successfully worked with numerous OTs during the pandemic such as Julia Pritchard who explains the benefits from her perspective: “During the past 18 months I have requested the services of Simple Stuff Works on three occasions to best support three service users with complex postural care needs.

The process of arranging the remote assessment service with the team was simple and effective. This method ensured a thorough assessment could be completed without the need for a face-to-face appointment. On each occasion I have worked alongside Steve Darlaston who I have found to be very knowledgeable and informative on the subject matter. This has resulted, not only, in positive outcomes and improved positioning for each service user, but has also been a learning opportunity for myself and other care providers involved.

I would not hesitate to recommend their service to others”.

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Another OT to have benefited from the online support is Vicky Thompson as she explains: “Over recent years, Anna and the team at Simple Stuff Works have been truly inspiring, encouraging and supportive. SSW have a passion for educating and delivering good postural care intervention. They have been a catalyst for my professional development and provided opportunity to network with other professionals in the world of postural care, through their online training and webinar platforms.”

Simple Stuff Works recognise that not everyone is confident with using certain pieces of equipment and so they offer free training sessions, have a plethora of free to access webinars on their YouTube channel and provide online CPD certified training. They will also provide assessment kits to therapy teams so that OTs can feel the equipment and try it with their clients should they want to.

It is not only OTs that are benefitting from the online programme, but also families such as Rachel Wright, founder of Born at the Right Time (www. bornattherighttime.com) who has a son with complex 52

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needs and a life-limiting condition explains. “Through my website, I try to help families such as mine bridge the gap between them and the many practitioners who support them. Recently, I needed to arrange a postural care review for my son which would normally involve trying to find a date when everyone could meet at one location. However, after a few emails I had arranged an appointment with Sam’s consultant and the key people involved in his care. I was also desperate to involve Anna and Sarah as their knowledge of sleep positioning is second to none, and within five minutes of going on the Simple Stuff Works website I had them booked in to attend Sam’s review remotely which was fantastic.

This meant that everyone involved in Sam’s care could meet at one time and swap ideas and any concerns. The remote assessment service from Simple Stuff Works is a real game changer for families like ours”.

For more information on the full range of awardwinning postural positioning solutions and assessments and training available from Simple Stuff Works call 01827 307 870, email admin@simplestuffworks.co.uk or visit simplestuffworks.co.uk.

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We are looking for people to join our team across the UK with a range of abilities and experience in various locations to conduct assessments in clinic, people’s homes, day centres or schools within the area.

What we offer – A competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience, Company pension contributions into a NEST Pension or continued contribution to a NHS Pension, Criteria dependant, Company mobile phone and laptop / tablet, Learning and development including CPD, Industry specific awareness training including expert clinical supervision and peer support, Free on-site parking, Eligibility to access to NHS perks and discounts from leading retailers and leisure outlets both online and in store, Access to our employee assistance programme from your first day.

Our current locations are – Portsmouth, Plymouth, Derby, Rainham, North East London, Park Royal, North West London, Waltham Forest, London, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, Milton Keynes, Lincolnshire

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THERA-Trainer EXERCISE BIKES ACTIVE / PASSIVE

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Regular exercise at home is encouraged to help maintain and improve muscle tone, circulation and flexibility, decrease fluid retention and increase stamina levels - all vital for anyone with limited mobility.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT EXERCISE bike to suit both your need and budget from our range of THERA trainers.

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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 younger clients

1

Kids

CARETTA BUGGY

The Caretta buggy from Baffin Technology is an adaptive stroller for children and young adults between 150cm and 160 cm (4’3” – 5’3”) tall requiring support when moving or sitting. The removeable side supports, five-point harness and head support stabilise the pelvis and provide increased comfort and postural support. For transportation the Caretta can also be easily folded.

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baffin.co.uk | 01788 892 056 2

EXPLORER MINI

This baby power wheelchair is an excellent solution designed to aid babies from six months old up to three years. It helps introduce selfinitiated movement for children with mobility impairments from a young age and allows them to enjoy more independence. The fun design makes it appealing to little ones and it is fully adjustable to ensure comfort. easylivingmobility.co.uk 3

PUSH POP FIDGET JIGSAW

Young kids across the land are besotted with push pop fidget toys.

They come in all shapes, sizes, colours and formations, but we have discovered a jigsaw version. This push pop jigsaw brings a Tetris-style element to the game and will be sure to keep kids focused and their minds occupied. amazon.co.uk

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4

RAINBOW SLIDE

For kids aged between two and five years old, this colourful rainbow slide is just the toy to provide hours of sliding fun. It holds kids up to 50lbs and can be easily folded away and stored in a cupboard when not in use. It provides hours of fun for little ones. argos.co.uk 5

MAGNETIBOOK

A great way to get little ones interacting and using their imagination. It may look like a book but it is actually a box with a magnetic lid and it contains several little magnetic characters, words, shapes or blocks, depending on what theme you opt for. These boxes are the perfect size to travel with too so they can be used on the go. kidly.co.uk 6

5

3-IN-1 STORY PROJECTOR

This story projector comes complete with eight fairy tale stories to please any child. Each story slide has eight images that allow the parent or carer to tell a story alongside, allowing children to interact with the story telling aspect and for the story to be told at a pace that suits everyone.

The images hold the child’s attention and it’s a novel way to tell bedtime stories. amazon.co.uk

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BOUNCING CHAIR WITH HARNESS

Designed for children aged four to nine years old, it provides vestibular and proprioceptive input from the perpetual movement offered by the gentle bouncing movement. Ideal for children with a range of sensory processing disorders, the gentle repetitive motion helps to reduce anxiety and promotes a sense of calm. specialneedstoys.com 8

OCEAN DRUM

Designed to enchant little ones with wonderful colours and noises, this little bead drum will introduce babies and kids to music and rhythm. The gentle sound of the beads creates a gentle soft sea sound against a lovely under the sea backdrop, mesmerising little ones and providing great sensory input. springboardsupplies.co.uk 0330 128 1314

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TOOLS FOR CREATION

Blind Create is a new social enterprise encouraging blind and partially sighted people to create their very own artwork, guided by an artist with over 25 years of experience teaching the craft

C

reating art isn’t just about the process of making something beautiful - it’s a tried and tested method of boosting self-esteem, and - per Harvard Health - can have a tremendously positive effect on overall mental health. Art therapy can be extremely beneficial for people living with depression, anxiety, mental health conditions and dementia. It provides a creative outlet that can be used with patients, both young and old, to calm the mind, work through feelings and give purpose.

However, for many people living with sight loss, art can feel out of reach. There are not many inclusive creative art classes that are designed to guide people living with visual impairments. That is, until David Grigor developed Blind Create.

Blind Create is a social enterprise that aims to make teaching and learning art more accessible for blind and partially sighted people. He wants to use the enterprise to rekindle a love of art in all people, and utilise technology in order to deliver teaching sessions to anyone who would like to learn and enjoy art.

David is no stranger to teaching - for much of the last 25 years, he’s been teaching art in one way or another to a whole host of people across the world. Having spent time in England, Scotland, Brazil, Canada, and the United States, he’s taken his love of both art and teaching with him wherever he’s gone. Previously, he’s been the head of art at a SEND school in London, and from November 2012 to February 2020, he was an art instructor at a Scottish charity for blind and partially sighted veterans.

Blind Create was conceptualised during the lockdown, and offers teaching sessions via video link. Combining his seven years of experience in teaching art to blind and partially sighted people with the rise of video calling, David saw an opportunity to help people who wanted to get into art during the lockdown but weren’t exactly sure how to go about it without guidance.

course of a Blind Create session. Participants can learn lots of things that they may have forgotten from school, including the theory of colour, composition, and the principals of design. Additionally, if they live with colour blindness, David can integrate that into lessons. All individual requirements are taken into consideration, and anything that will help the participant feel comfortable will be required where possible. All that’s asked for the sessions is that participants bring their own art equipment - all of which is detailed on the website - and that there is a a good internet connection to allow them to show their work on camera as it is created.

Patricia, a Blind Create client, said in a testimonial: “With David’s expert tuition, I’m learning how to use perspective in my drawing and paint using bright colours with inks and watercolour. I’m thoroughly enjoying the sessions, and he ensures that my accessible needs are met every session as my sight has been affected in the past by cataracts.

“I thoroughly recommend Blind Create’s art sessions and David’s vibrant artwork; he’s really helping me to feel excited about my own art,” she continued. “I really enjoyed learning how to paint dogs as I now have a little cairn terrier. I will enjoy mixing acrylic paints to obtain various colours and textures which can be built up in fairly swift stages. I saw how David changed a blank page into a life-like spaniel over Zoom. It was phenomenal to observe.”

Blind Create sessions can be booked now on David’s website, DavidGrigor.com, and are £45 per one hour of specialist teaching. Sessions can be held on whichever platform is most accessible, including Facebook Messenger, FaceTime, Zoom, Skype and Teams. For more information on how to book a class, or on what the classes will entail, visit DavidGrigor.com.

Leaning into his previous experience, David understands that sight can be affected in different ways, of course, and this means that there are a host of different approaches that can be taken in the creation of art.

Some people may also gravitate more towards different mediums - like watercolour or gauche - as well as a host of different techniques which can be taught over the

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Artwork displayed is a mix of work from David Grigor and clients Jemima and Patricia

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GUIDE TO CPD We have created a beginner’s guide for any newly qualified OTs or anyone who just wants a refresher on how to tackle the important job of recording your CPD. This will ensure you are prepared if this is the year you are called on by the HCPC for an audit

C

ontinuing professional development (CPD) is vitally important for occupational therapists.

It is more than just a requirement to ensure you can retain your registration as an OT: it is a key tool that keeps you as an OT at the top of your area of the profession and encourages you to reach your potential as an OT. The profession of occupational therapy is constantly evolving and a career as an OT is a lifelong journey of learning. We take a look at the key components set out that registrants must adhere to for inclusion in their CPD portfolio and explore some helpful tools in maintaining this throughout the year.

CPD GUIDELINES An occupational therapist must complete a minimum of 30 hours of CPD each year, adhering to the following points: 1 Registrants must maintain a continuous, up-to-date and accurate record of their CPD activities 2 They must demonstrate that their CPD activities are a mixture of learning activities relevant to current or future practice 3 They must seek to ensure that their CPD has

GAINING CPD

There are a variety of different ways that you can gain CPD, both online and in person. The most important thing to do is to make sure the training and development you are participating in is relevant to your practice and will grow your skills and learning as an OT. Let’s take a look at some of the opportunities available to you to gain CPD.

contributed to the quality of their practice and service delivery 4 They must seek to ensure that their CPD benefits the service user 5 Upon request, they must present a written profile (which must be their own work and supported by evidence) explaining how they have met the standards for CPD.

ATTENDING EVENTS

...a career as an OT is a lifelong journey of learning

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Granted these have been in short supply over the last two years, but the gradual increase of physical events this year have been welcomed greatly.

The OT Show ended the year on a real high as OTs were delighted to be reunited in a space that offered a packed programme of seminars and workshops, CPD was available in gallons for OTs working in every facet of the profession. Online events have their place and have been critical over the course of the pandemic, but there is something very special about the networking opportunities and learning opportunities at physical events.

TRAINING COURSES

If you are looking to further your knowledge base and career in your chosen field, you will most certainly be able to find a course to fit your requirements. These may come in the form of physical day courses that you attend, or they may offer online learning opportunities with live webinars or recorded seminars. Most of these courses will have a cost attached to them, so it is worth talking to your employer about the benefits of any courses you wish to take and asking them to foot the bill. You will find some free OT courses, workshops, product demonstration days and OTorganised meetings which may be beneficial, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled.

WRITING SOCIAL MEDIA

The online OT community is strong and powerful on social media, and so much can be gained from interacting on platforms like Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn. You can join groups relating to your specific area of OT, you can network and share your work with your peers and introductions can be made almost every day. #OTalk is one of the most well-known groups on Twitter, they run weekly chats hosted by different OTs and cover a huge variety of topics. You can find out more about #OTalk on page 16 as we celebrate 10 years of #OTalk.

You don’t have to be an English graduate to turn your hand to writing about your work. Writing reflections on your practice, or a topic you feel strongly about is a great way to record your learnings, it is also a very therapeutic practice. If you want to take writing one step further, you should contact the team at The OT Magazine on ros@2apublishing.co.uk as we are always open to contributions from OTs sharing their work and talking about the profession. We are not looking for the next Pulitzer Prize winner; we simply want to hear you talking about your work in the profession, so don’t be afraid to get in touch – we are also CPD-certified so you can include anything we publish in your CPD portfolio.

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Yourevents

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

We take a look at the packed calendar of events and exhibitions that are lined up for OTs in 2022!

Get your CPD lined up for the year and plan the events you want to attend this year.

22-23 FEB 2022

Moving & Handling People Conference De Vere Beaumont Estate, Windsor Returning for 2022, organised by Disabled Living Foundation as part of their Professionals Programme the theme this year will be ‘Reviewing Latest Thinking and Practice’. It provides hands-on workshops, informative seminars, networking opportunities and knowledgeable speakers. livingmadeeasy.org.uk

Kidz to Adultz Events Event dates: MIDDLE – 17 MAR

Coventry Building Society Arena,

Coventry Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre SOUTH – 17 MAY

WALES & WEST – 7 JUL

International Convention

Centre, Newport SCOTLAND – 8 SEPT

OTAC Events Event dates: EXETER – 9 FEB

Exeter Racecourse, Exeter

LEEDS – 6 APR

Weetwood Hall Estate, Leeds

NEWCASTLE – 4 MAY CAMBRIDGE – 15 JUN

Hilton Hotel, Newcastle Cambridge Bar Hill Hotel,

BW Sig, Cambridge MIDLANDS – 29 JUN

Drayton Manor Theme

Park, Midlands CHESTER – 7 SEPT

The Queen Hotel, Chester

READING - 9 NOV

Hilton Hotel, Reading

CARDIFF – 7 DEC

Copthorne Hotel, Cardiff

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, and invaluable CPD opportunities. otac.org.uk

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Royal Highland Centre,

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NORTH – NOV

TBC

Free exhibition dedicated to children and young adults with disabilities and additional needs, their families, carers and all the professionals who support them, the events are packed with exhibitors and boast a great CPD seminar programme. kidzexhibitions.co.uk

2022 Calendar 6-7 JULY

European Neuro Convention NEC, Birmingham

29-30 APRIL

BAPO Coventry Building Society Arena, Coventry The British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists will host their annual conference in April this year. It is packed with presentations, speakers and workshops to help educate healthcare professionals working in this arena. bapo.com 18-19 MAY 2022

Residential and Home Care Show NEC, Birmingham This show is part of Health Plus Care, it will cover all the big, current issues for social care including personalisation, integrated care, safeguarding, raising quality, dementia, CQC ratings, new employment law, recruitment and retention issues, which technologies work and business development. healthpluscare.co.uk/residential

Europe’s only trade event for brain and spine experts. Two days packed with workshops and expert industry speakers, the chance to gain free CPD, meet with suppliers and network with likeminded people that can share their knowledge and solutions to improve patient outcomes in the neurological sector. neuroconvention.com 6-7 JULY

Dementia Care and Nursing Home Expo NEC, Birmingham This event showcases the technology, products and content that will not only enable care homes to implement high-quality, person-centred care models, but also inspire business growth as a result. carehomeexpo.co.uk 11-13 JULY

PMG Conference The International Centre, Telford PMG’s annual conference provides an educational, industry exhibition and networking events for professionals working in the field on posture and wheeled mobility. pmguk.co.uk 23-24 NOV

6-7 JULY

Naidex NEC, Birmingham Naidex returns in 2022 for an independent living revolution. Boasting a dedicated CPD seminar programme, a wide range of innovative exhibitors, interactive demonstrations and expert speakers, this year’s event promises to be unmissable. nadiex.co.uk

The Occupational Therapy Show NEC, Birmingham A vital date in the OT diary, The OT Show will return this year with an outstanding line-up of speakers, seminars and workshops. The show is dedicated to bringing OTs more CPD opportunities than any other event and the exhibition floor will be packed with organisations catering for the independent living market. theotshow.com

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EDGE services Exceptional Training with a Personal Touch Movin Handl g & Key Tr ing a Certifi iner’s cate 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 six years’ training experience.

• Professionally and Academically Accredited All our People and Children Handling and Risk Assessment Key Trainer’s Certificate courses are accredited by RoSPA Qualifications to Level 4 or Advanced Level 4. They are Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) Approved Learning Awards, certified by the CPD Certification Service and aligned to the Skills for Care Core Skills Training Framework (CSTF).

• Extensive Training Resources, Exclusive On-line Library and E-Learning Module Our training is supported by a professionally produced and fully illustrated 246-page course textbook, proposed documentation for onward training delivery, four video modules demonstrating over 45 moving and handling practical skills techniques, an extensive and exclusive on-line resources library and a user-friendly e-learning programme designed for front-line staff.

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