THE MAGAZINE Issue 48 | Sep/Oct 22 Exploring the therapeutic impact that open water swimming can have on physical and wellbeingemotional Wild Swimming + COLUMNS / PRODUCTS / CPD / EVENTS / MENTAL HEALTH
Delicious, nutritious and safe texture modified meals delivered ✓ A range of over 60 dishes in IDDSI Level 4, 5 and 6 designed for the IDDSI required texture. ✓ Choose from breakfast, mains, minis and desserts. ✓ Helping you to support and keep your patients safe at mealtimes. ✓ No contracts, order as much or as little as you like. PROUD SUPPORTER OF GOLD SPONSOR We are proud Gold sponsors of the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative To order brochures for your patients or for a free demo call 0333 433 0178 or visit itsmadeforyou.co.uk Soft Bite-Sized&MealsMinced & Moist MealsPuréedMeals LEVEL 4 LEVEL 5 LEVEL 6
s we approach the later end of the year, I can’t help but reflect on 2022. A year that was supposed to see us free of a pandemic and on a much more positive pathway to the future. Instead we find ourselves still struggling with the virus and supporting those living with the long lasting effects of a cruel and unpredictable illness that does not discriminate. To top it all off we are bracing ourselves for a difficult winter that will see many choosing between heating and eating.
Occupational therapy has never been more in demand as the country prepares to mentally and physically brave a storm of financial hardship.
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 Team Editor: Rosalind Tulloch Assistant Editor:
A
Designer: Fionnlagh Ballantine Production: Donna Deakin Contributors: Kate
Wild swimming has been the activity of choice for many over the last two years. The physical and emotional benefits of plunging yourself into freezing cold water, whether that be in the sea, lakes, lochs or rivers, have been well documented. OT Caterina Pietrobon shares her experience of open water swimming on page 15. We also take a look at the new legislation that allows OTs to sign fit notes, explore the stigma around mobility aids, discover the benefits of OT and social farming, and much more.
Caterina Pietrobon, Mike
Johanna Rohde, Maia Fergus-O’Grady, Get in touch 2A Publishing, 20-23 Woodside Place, Glasgow, G3 7QL 0141 465 enquiries@2apublishing.co.uk@TheOTMagazine@ot_magazineTheot-magazine.co.uk2960OTMagazine The OT Magazine, ot-magazine.co.uk/subscribe Subscribe for only £9.99SUBSCRIBE TODAY Further your career and enhance your CPD by subscribing to The OT Magazine
Don’t forget to follow us on our social media channels - scan the QR code below! If you would like to contribute to The OT Magazine please email me at Ros@2APublishing.co.uk
Kate
This month’s issue... Katie Campbell Sheehan, Turney, Beauchamp,
OTs will be vital in supporting the emotional wellbeing of any patients or clients struggling to manage through these difficult times, and arming yourself with knowledge on grants, funding and energy saving tips will go some way to helping support the people you are working with. You will find a useful guide on page 22.
About us
4 -magazine.co.uk 07 What’s New Bringing you up to speed with all the news from the health sector 11 EngagementProfessional Kate Sheehan explores how you can get involved with RCOT What’s inside 19 Product Focus The latest must-have products on the market 22 The Rising Cost of Living Supporting your clients to save money on energy costs over the coming months 12 Fit Notes OTs can now sign fit notes, but what does that mean for you? 15 Into the Deep OT Caterina Pietrobon draws on her personal experiences of wild swimming and competitive swimming as a meaningful occupation 15 25 Day in the Life We hear from Mike Turney about his role working with patients who have progressive or acquired neurological conditions 26 The Essence of OT Kate Beauchamp shares her journey as part of a Macmillan cancer therapy team 12
5-magazine.co.uk 38 Supporting Patients with Malnutrition Wiltshire Farm Foods’ dietitian explores how OTs can support service users with malnutrition 42 Embracing Change Tackling the stigma that surrounds mobility aids and ageing 44 Home Sweet Home Adapting homes to keep clients in their own environment for as long as possible 51 Girls and ADHD The importance of recognising and supporting girls who are living with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder 55 Paediatric Products Innovative products for your younger clients 58 Gympanzees Discover the charity on a mission to build an inclusive and accessible exercise and play facility for disabled children 61 The OT Show Have you got your Poster Zone entry in for this year’s show? 62 Navigating Events Get ahead of the game for every event with our simple guide to help you get the most out of all potential CPD opportunities 65 Event Calendar Essential dates for your diary Product Focus 35 29 OT Takes the Crown The importance of the accurate portrayal of OT in the media 32 Social Farming OT Johanna Rohde highlights the benefits of integrating OT with community farming to benefit a range of communities 35 Product Focus More of the latest must-have products on the market 32
Sydney Go Flat ™ meets the needs of critical care patients and their care team, helping advance early mobilisation in acute units and the ICU. seatingmatters.com Contact us for a Sydney GoFlat™ Demonstration T 028 7776 6624 or contact@seatingmatters.com Intuitive GoFlat™ technology Enables lateral transfer of patient from bed to seat Synchronised arm adjustment with fall arrest feature during transfer High grade anti-shear mattress & tilt in space for pressure management IV and O2 integration Live BACCNDemonstrationConference 2022 17-18 October, Belfast Stand 19
A unique impairment specific video exercise library tailored to the user’s impairment. Video exercises are performed by exercise demonstrators of the user’s disability, allowing users to create their own training programmes that best suits them
Dr Kobie Boshoff
1 2 3
What’s new?
OTS SCHOOLSAUSTRALIANIN
opportunities, Ali decided to create Accessercise. This is an easily downloadable app that is designed to allow disabled people to exercise on their own terms from the comfort of their own home.
““By acting as a bridge between the parent and the school they [OTs] can support parent advocacy, while facilitating school and staff understanding of the unique learning needs of each child with “TheyASD. work holistically within a
We explore what’s happening in the healthcare sector, from new products and services to inspirational stories
The app has three key features:
A Social Hub where users get to share, like, comment and follow user’s fitness journeys to create a real sense of community
South Australia has recently appointed the first Assistant Minister for Autism, and they have been given the task of improving autism support in public schools. This follows new research from the University of South Australia that has highlighted the worldwide concern from parents on the lack of awareness and understanding of the learning needs of autistic children across all levels of mainstream Leadschool.researcher
PEOPLEDISABLEDAPPFITNESSFOR
from the University of South Australia, told The Educator Online that support for autistic children is urgently needed in schools and occupational therapists would be perfectly placed to help change this.
Paralympian Ali Jawad has recently launched an app designed and curated specifically for and by disabled Recognisingpeople.the lack of accessibility to gyms and other sporting
Recognising the power of occupational therapy, Dr Boshoff urged the new Assistant Minister for Autism to consider placing occupational therapists in schools as it would also improve parent-school relationships, which can only have a positive effect on the learning outcomes for a child.
A unique accessibility rating scale where users get to rate the accessibility of gyms and local sports facilities in their local areas To find out more and to download Accessercise visit join.accessercise. com 7www. -magazine.co.uk
child’s environment, so whether it’s working one-on-one with children, in groups or with teachers, they can design alternative ways to help children meet their learning goals.”
“I’m delighted that Andrew Jones and Councillor Oldham will be performing the ‘breaking ground’
GripAble and Imperial College London have been awarded a grant worth over £800,000 from Biomedical Catalyst to allow them to continue to develop SqueezAble – a product that will revolutionise upper limb therapy for paediatric cerebral palsy patients. In the UK, there are an estimated 187,000 children living with an arm disability, and 85 million worldwide. Gripable and Dr Firat Güder from the Department of Bioengineering at Imperial College London recognise that without regular occupational therapy for upper limb and hand strength, dexterity and movement range, a child’s condition is likely to deteriorate and impact their ability to live more independently in
Theadulthood.project
“We have designed the development sympathetically to the local surroundings, while also holding a strong character and sense of place for “Theresidents.newhomes are energy-efficient and are designed to provide tenants with homes for life to suit their wide ranging needs.” www. -magazine.co.uk
8
The development will include a base for Disability Action Yorkshire staff, who will be available to assist residents at any time. The first phase of building will see 24 one- and twobedroom flats erected where the current complex stands, and on a plot of land bought from Harrogate Borough Council. Local MP Andrew Jones and the Mayor of the Borough of Harrogate will break ground on the construction that’s taking place in Claro Road.
GripAble.co
ACCESSIBLE AND VERY EFFICIENT HOUSING PROJECT TO OPEN IN
“Theyceremony.willbe joined by a number of Claro Road residents, who are eager to move into their own homes.
Jackie Snape, Disability Action Yorkshire’s chief executive, said: “This will be a very significant occasion for the charity, on what will possibly be one of the most significant days in our 85-year history.
team will work with children with paediatric cerebral palsy to develop SqueezAble, as well as Imperial’s Güder Research Group, and an award-winning team of OTs, clinical specialists, and medical device engineers.
FUNDINGWINSTHERAPYUPPERHARROGATELIMBPRODUCTGRANT
Disability Action Yorkshire has partnered with Highstone Housing Association to create a £7.5m housing scheme in Harrogate, replacing an existing 20-bed facility and offering 36 disabled people energy-efficient homes.
“The project will incorporate usercentred design processes to develop and test SqueezAble with our target user group. As well as developing the new SqueezAble technology, over the next two years, we plan to create new bimanual games for training functional movement on GripAble’s software platform extending our current unimanual games.”
Dr Mike Mace, chief technology officer and co-founder of GripAble, said: “Children living with an arm disability must learn to independently complete bimanual activities of daily living, requiring them to use both hands simultaneously, to be able to complete everyday tasks like eating, writing, and washing. To support them with this, we have a vision of a next-gen sensor which seamlessly integrates with and complements current occupational therapy by incorporating novel soft-sensing technology that will enable training of bimanual hand function by digitising existing soft therapy tools such as stress balls and Theraputty, in combination with gamification and virtual tasks.
ERIC CONFERENCECONTINENCEPAEDIATRICCARE
NRS
We are proud to be partnering with the ERIC Paediatric Continence Care Conference. Taking place on 10 October at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole with an online option also available, this year’s conference theme is: “Equality and Inclusion: Making sure no child is left out or left Withbehind”.afocus on working with children with additional needs, the programme includes a comprehensive line-up of speakers and workshops including a talk delivered by occupational therapist and interoception expert Kelly Mahler, and a workshop entitled “Toilet training for children with complex ASD and/or intellectual disability” delivered by Annemarie Sims, clinical specialist OT based at the Evelina London Children’s ForHospital.more information and to book your place, visit: Conference2022ERIC.org.uk/
their career opportunities and in turn has improved our service offering to our service users.” Kirstie Donnelly MBE, chief executive of City & Guilds, said: “According to our Great Jobs research report published earlier this year, we know that 15,000 job openings are expected in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industry in the next five years. The Princess Royal Training Awards demonstrate how training and development can open up opportunities and attract new talent to industries with significant skills gaps, labour shortages and high demand for workers. Yet again, this year’s recipients have shown the range and depth of learning and development that is taking place in their own organisations to shape growth and positivity from the power of skills development to address these issues. We would like to congratulate this year’s recipients and look forward to celebrating with them later this year.” 9www. -magazine.co.uk accredited. It was one of 47 training programmes from across the UK to be recognised with the award. David Straughan, chief operative officer at NRS Healthcare, said: “Our employees work nationally and often remotely and in many different job roles. This new way of working has taken a few years of continual improvements but has been worth all the hard work, making our training packages easy to access, improved our overall employee engagement, NRS Healthcare has been recognised as part of HRH The Princess Royal’s training awards for excellence in health, safety and environment training - one of only eight companies within the healthcare industry to receive the Cityaward.&Guilds selected NRS Healthcare, recognising their Health, Safety and Environment training, which is Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents
forLookingan OTot-magazine.co.ukjob?/jobs
FORRECEIVEHEALTHCAREAWARDEXCELLENCE
geberit-aquaclean.co.uk/care GEBERIT AQUACLEAN MERA CARE THINKINGINNOVATIVE LIVINGINDEPENDENTFOR FIXED SEAT NO LID CONTROLFROMACTUATIONFLUSHREMOTEWATERANDFLOWCONTINUOUSHEATERSTORAGEHEATERAPP AVAILABLE FOR IOS ANDROIDAND DETECTIONVIAFLUSHINGAUTOMATICUSER PANELWALLTOUCHLESSCONTROL CHAIRSHOWERMODE
I have now been qualified for 35 years: I am still as passionate about my profession as I was when I started college in 1984, and for all that time I have been a member of our professional body. I have not always agreed with their strategy or some of their responses, but have always supported them as we need our professional body to be our voice at local, national, and international levels. We do, however, have to reflect on what part we should play in our professional body; is it just that one payment a month or year, or do we have a professional duty to engage and get involved? My personal belief is we have to get involved to be able to influence change and to be up-to-date on what is going on in our profession.
SITTING ON A SPECIALIST leadsomethingIt’sSITTINGinterventions.practicepublished.initiatives,thespecialistICOMMITTEESECTIONhaveinthepastandIamnowamemberofthehousingsection.Thishasgivenmetheopportunityoveryearstoinfluencenationalpolicy,beawareofnewandchangesinlegislationpriortothembeingThisknowledgehasimpactedmyclinicalandallowedmetoprovidethebestpossibleONCOUNCILnoteveryone’scupoftea,butwhynot?Weallhavetogive,andyoudon’tneedtobeaserviceoranacademictositoncouncil-practitionerscan provide valuable insight into the challenges of the day-today life of therapeutic interventions. The skills you gain can have a really positive impact on you personally, on your clinical practice and your employers will recognise the credit in your RESPONDINGappointment.
PractitionersCONSULTATIONSTOarethebackboneoftheprofession; we have the knowledge and skill in our chosen field of expertise that the College will not have internally, and we can feed that knowledge and the reality of practice back to the College. This could also lead to you getting involved in developing NICE guidance or representing the College in a clinical area on a national occupationaloffriendships,meetMyourthethebreakapreciousourknowsharesAlltheCollegearecognisedondevelopmentEachWRITINGyourtoleaveparticularthemTheCOMPLETINGcommittee.SURVEYSCollegeoftenputsoutshortsurveys,whichgivesasnapshotoftheprofessionalviewsinonearea.Thiscaninfluencedecisionmaking.AlwaysyournameattheendofthesurveyasthismayleadcompletingaprojectfortheCollegeanddevelopingexpertisefurther.andeveryoneofushasaprojectorservicewehavebeeninvolvedwith,orareflectionaparticularlydifficultcase,oryourservicebeingforanawardlocally.WritingforOTNewsisgreatwaytospreadtheknowledgeandprovidethewithavaluableinsightintowhatishappeningatgrassroots.oftheaboveaddstoyourprofessionaldevelopment,knowledgeandexpertiseandenablesRCOTtoitsmembers’viewsanduseourskillstopromoteprofession.Timeisalwaysaconcern,anditisacommodity,yetsomeoftheseoptionsarenotlong-termcommitment,butafewminutesinacoffeeorthreetofourhoursonceayear.Justthink,ifall40,000membersgavejustonehourayeartosupportCollege,thiswouldequateto5,000daystosupportprofessionalbody.challengetoyouistogetinvolved:notonlydoesityourHCPCstandards,butitcanalsoleadtolifelongcreateamazingmemories,andpushyououtyourcomfortzone,whichallowsyoutogrowasantherapist.
ENGAGEMENTPROFESSIONAL
Director, The OT Service
Kate Sheehan
Our requirements as a registrant of the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) are that we: “understand both the need to keep skills and knowledge up to date and the importance of career-long learning”, and in particular the standards of proficiency state: “you must keep your knowledge and skills up to date and relevant to your scope of practice through continuing professional development”. So how does this fit with our professional body? Engaging and being involved with the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) means we can meet the above HCPC standard, for example:
11-magazine.co.uk
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
NOTES
FIT NOTE?
Sometimes called a Statement of Fitness for Work or Med3, it’s a certificate that, before 1 July of this year, was issued by a GP to state that a patient is not able to return to or start work for reasons related to their health. They’re useful for people who have to take sickness leave from work (any absence over seven days requires a fit note) or people who wish to claim some benefits. Fit notes can also establish what needs to be done to help a person return to work - this could be a phased return to work, or lay out the workplace adaptions that are needed to ensure a person is able to return.
n 1 July 2022, a legislative change meant that a number of allied health professionals - including occupational therapists - could start certifying fit notes for patients. Before that date, only doctors could issue fit notes, and the change is something that a number of bodies representing these professional bodies, including the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, have been lobbying for. In fact, an RCOT study published in August 2020 by Nouri et al, which saw the researchers interview 12 health professionals to examine the role OTs and other allied health professionals could take in issuing fit notes, found that both patients and GPs were on board with OTs issuing fit notes, with GPs noting that appointments for fit notes were “a waste of their time and expertise” when OTs, who better understand workplaces, were better placed to complete the assessment. RCOT have celebrated the change, noting that it will have a “really positive impact on health services across the UK,” with patients now able to receive more bespoke advice using the myriad expertise of occupational therapists. What then could this new legislation mean for you, and what are the benefits of the
WHO CAN ISSUE FIT NOTES?
Changes to the law means that occupational therapists are now able to issue fit notes, but what does this mean, and how is it beneficial to patients?
Let’s get down to basics: what is a fit note?
WHATchange?ISA
FIT
IS THE FIT NOTE
ISSUED ON PAPER?
Before April 2022, this was absolutely the caseGPs had what was functionally a big notepad of fit notes that they had to sign manually, or had to print them out and sign it. In advance of the changes to legislation, the need for a handwritten signature was removed, so now a digital certification template has been created that’s present within the IT systems of all GPs that makes it really simple to access and issue. 12 www. -magazine.co.uk
O
The legislation changes mean that nurses, occupational therapists, pharmacists, and physiotherapists can now issue fit notes in addition to doctors, as was the case before the change in law. Per RCOT, the change covers all qualified occupational therapists at point of registration with the HCPC in Scotland, England and Wales, with the College noting that Northern Ireland “will be able to adopt the changes if wished.” Student OTs working within GP surgeries, for example, are not able to issue fit notes.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF THIS TheCHANGE?government’sown
guidance states that the change recognises the importance of the input that other healthcare professionals - nurses, OTs, physiotherapists and pharmacists - play in supporting patients in the delivery of healthcare. Multidisciplinary teams’ support of patients in healthcare settings includes people who may wish to return to work but require assessment, guidance and support, and that’s where the expertise of healthcare professionals like occupational therapists can shine. RCOT also believes that this change could see the strain being taken off of doctors, and may result in a reduction in demand and waiting time for GPs, which will help them focus on other medical matters.
IS THERE TRAINING I CAN TAKE? Indeed there is! Hosted on E-Learning for Healthcare, a programme called The Fit Note has been created in collaboration with the Royal College of General Practitioners, the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, the Royal College of Nursing, and the Royal Pharmaceutical Society. It’ll support relevant healthcare professionals through a case study approach that will explore common potential scenarios that illustrate what might be seen in a GP surgery. The training has four sessions and a final assessment which provides information on the aims and importance of fit notes, legislation and guidance, making recommendations, and the application of fit notes. It should take between two and four hours to complete, and is available on e-lfh.org.uk 13www. -magazine.co.uk
Join us on any of our social media channels to connect with the OT community, share your voice, be the first to hear about CPD opportunities, enter exclusive opportunities and much more! FOLLOW@TheOTMagazine@TheOTMagazine@ot_magazine@TheOTMagazineUS Join us online at keep up-to-date with all things OT, discover new products and services, subscribe to the magazine, and read articles from your peers. SCAN THE QR CODE TO FOLLOW US
INTODEEPTHE
I have been practicing as a pediatric occupational therapist for the past 25 years primarily using sensory integration, play therapy and the Model of Human IOccupation.havenever taught swimming as a therapeutic activity but included it in many home programmes and discussions with parents. As an extracurricular activity, swimming tones muscles, supports the development of praxis, bilateral integration, body awareness, endurance and self-regulation. Apart from being an important life skill for survival, team swimming has the added benefit of facilitating socialisation and creating a sense of identity
15www. -magazine.co.uk
OT Caterina Pietrobon uses her own experience to explore the impact that open water and competitive swimming can have on mental health and wellbeing
and belonging. Water provides buoyancy which makes it easier to move than in air, making it ideal for children with additional needs. I have always been drawn to water, despite growing up in suburban Johannesburg, a landlocked city at high altitude. I learnt to swim on my own in the local municipal pool aged five, and immediately fell in love with it. At primary school, there was no pool, but high school provided a chance to join the swim team. The regular team swim practice that took place in the early mornings before school left me feeling invigorated and ready to learn. After leaving school and living and working in various cities, I discovered other recreational pursuits - running, hiking, scuba diving and yoga, but always kept up swimming laps as a fun and meaningful mind-body experience and stress reliever. My more recent personal journey however has led me to discover the incredible power of open water and competitive swimming. In 2018, I took a sabbatical to complete a master’s in counselling. My goal was to understand how trauma and resilience intersect, and how individuals can use meaningful and purposeful activities to self-regulate and heal from trauma. The internship for the practical hours for the master’s degree took me back to South Africa. When COVID-19 and total lockdown hit in March 2020, I was totally unprepared for the void left by the loss of structure, lack of occupation, social interaction and the freedom to leave the house. Gone were the daily meaningful leisure activities like walking the dogs, hiking up the hill or photographing the lagoon. As lockdown progressed, I noticed that my motivation to do diminished, and my mood was down. I used daily ADL rituals and routines as anchors for structuring my days and learnt new skills like Zoom and how to access online professional development courses. What followed was a journey through the grief cycle, which I watched both as a spectator and as a participant knowing full well that this journey was inevitable and had to be walked to be processed. Keeping a daily journal and doing yoga helped me cope, but I longed for the outdoors and the power of nature.
The whole experience has illustrated how our values, interests and personal story interact with our environment and shape our choice and execution of occupations in a dynamic and systemic way. It also reminded me of the power of occupation and how it heals, transforms and creates new roles, identities, endeavors and outcomes. We are privileged to be able to help our clients achieve their best quality of life through occupation and participation in purposeful and meaningful activities throughout the lifespan.
Masters Swimming Gala 2021 was cancelled due to COVID, but I participated in my first Masters swimming championship in March 2022. The pool competition was about team building and participating for team points not medals. We dressed up in carnival attire and had fun. The 1km open water swim was on a rainy day and the road there was muddy and many cars got stuck. We pushed through and did our swim, and the same feeling of achievement and joy emerged. The oldest participant who successfully completed the 1km challenge was on our team and was 80 years old. August 2022 presented the opportunity to participate in a charity one hour challenge swim and I managed to do 2.3km which was better than I ever dreamed.
In October 2020, when lockdown restrictions were partially lifted, months of reflection on what activities gave me meaning spurred me to explore swimming in the local area. I joined the closest gym that had a 25m pool and a team of like-minded Masters swimmers of all ages, some with visual impairments and some with physical impairments. Being in the group gave me courage to swim in the local fresh water lakes and rivers for the first time. Swimming in open water came with subtle fears: getting stuck in the reeds, not making it the whole way, fear of what lies in the dark depths (thanks Jaws for planting silly ideas), losing my sense of direction. Then I realised approaching open water swimming could be seen as a metaphor for life “embrace change”, “feel the fear but do it anyway”, and “nothing ventured nothing gained”. The sense of exhilaration and wellbeing at the end of my first open water swim was unique. Once I calmed my fears, I began to feel part of the water and revelled in the magic moments of feeling connected to nature. Each stroke became a meditative action and my breathing was rhythmical and smooth. I stopped to visually reorient myself periodically, but felt safe and like I belonged in the Myenvironment.sleepafter swimming was deep and restorative. Each subsequent swim was easier and I eventually committed to swimming four times a week as a fixed routine, developing new skills like butterfly stroke, perfecting tumble turns and working on performance components like streamlining and dolphin kick. My identity as an athlete was forming and I had a new role that I could carry long term.
16 www. -magazine.co.uk
23-24 NOV 2022 THE NEC BIRMINGHAM Only at the Occupational Therapy Show can you expect: BRINGING THE OT COMMUNITY Toge er. Register for FREE www.theotshow.com/otmagazineat: 100+ 1 UNMISSABLE SHOW WITH EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO HELP PEOPLE IMPROVE, REGAIN, AND DEVELOP THE SKILLS NEEDED FOR LIFE EXPERT OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY SPEAKERS CPD ACCREDITED CONFERENCE SESSIONS 270+ 6HEALTHCARE SUPPLIERS WITH THE MOST EFFECTIVE HEALTHCARE, DISABILITY & MOBILITY AIDS EDUCATIONAL THEATRES WITH COUNTLESS LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES 100+ Education Partners Organised byMedia PartnersShow Sponsor Event Partner
Every issue we bring you the latest products from across the market to help you improve the lives of your clients.
AAT’s S-Max Sella is a fast, multifunctional, safe solution for tackling stairs. The stair climber can power up and down the most challenging of stairways, lasting 300 steps from just one charge of the battery pack. It has an integral seat or can be attached to a wheelchair, and accessories are available for optimal support, safety and comfort. Folds away when not in use. Contact AAT for a free, no obligation AATgb.com/s-max-sellaassessment: | 01978 821875 3000+ configurations, the aptly-named Options Shower and Commode Chair from Care & Independence is the perfect answer to assisted bathroom needs. Suitable for 99% of users, it is fully adjustable, super supportive and available in attendant, self-propel, transit or static variants with a SWL of up to 190kg. 0330CareAndIndependence.com1280808 -magazine.co.uk
Product FOCUS
OPTIONS SHOWER CHAIR2 1 19www.
S-MAX SELLA1 With
Whether heading out and about or looking to stay warm and comfortable at home, the new autumn/winter collection from Cosyfeet delivers great choice and comfort for your patients with extra wide or professionals,rangecouldn’tfeet. RecommendingswollenCosyfeetbeeasierthankstoaoffreeresourcesforhealthsimplyvisit com/Professionals to find out Cosyfeet.com |more. 01458 447275
Medpage/Easylink UK have launched a new range of falls prevention and management products. The new sensor range offers improved sensitivity, interoperability, and connectivity options. The MPCSA11 is our new sensor controller alarm, which enables alarms to be held off when a patient transfers from bed to chair or vice versa. Choice of alarms include radio pagers, GSM/ Wi-Fi control hub, or direct nurse call EasylinkUK.co.ukconnection. | 01536 264869
Cosyfeet.
PROSTHETICULTRALIGHT COVER 5 3 5 20 www. -magazine.co.uk 4
FOOTWEAR FOR WIDE AND SWOLLEN FEET 3
FALLS PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT 4 Limb-Art are a company that provide amazing prosthetic covers in a wide range of styles, colours, patterns, and custom designs. They allow users to reflect their personalities through their prosthetic, and this ultralight option provides a stylish look with diamond-shaped cut outs, and it provides a natural leg shape under trousers, leggings and long boots. Limb-Art.com | 07771 973 982
YPush.com | 01481 253244
01543 670 077 VEYPR SUB46
| 01531 635 678 CLASSIC FOLDINGPROREACHER8 8 6
The perfect choice for reaching for everyday objects in and around the home. The great benefit of this product is that it can be folded up and neatly packed in a suitcase, carried in a bag, or placed in a walker bag for use at home or out and about. The ideal companion to help users avoid bending or straining to pick things up when dropped or are out of HHADLEssentials.co.ukreach.
The revolutionary YPush wheelchair is an attendant-controlled wheelchair that takes all the strain away from the carer. The touch of a button on the handle operates the power-assisted drive function and the powerassisted steering helps carers control the wheelchair easily, with minimum effort required. It is lightweight and folds away for storage and has a compact charging unit.
YPUSH7
The Veypr Sub4 by RGK has been heralded as the world’s first truly made-to-measure carbon fibre wheelchair. Utilising new pioneering technology, this ultra-lightweight wheelchair provides a smooth yet rigid ride, perfect for everyday activities, and it looks sleek and stylish too. Every customer will have over 30 measurements taken to ensure the fit is perfect and comfort is a RGKWheelchairs.com |priority.
Arming yourself with knowledge on grants and funding available that could help will go some way to alleviating concerns, and any tips on how to minimise energy costs can be passed on to clients to help them manage daily energy costs. We have put together some information and tips to help you offer your clients some useful energy saving ideas.
DRAUGHT PROOFING
The damaging effects of the rise in energy costs is hitting the nation hard, and it is about to get harder to heat homes, feed families, pay for necessary care needs, participate in activities and look after our mental health.
that when they wash their clothes to make sure that it is a full load, fuller loads mean using the washing machine less. Washing clothes at 30C will also save energy and is also better for the environment. If they have the means to dry clothes outside take advantage of this as much as possible. Tumble dryers are expensive to run so if it is possible to dry clothes on a drying rack or outside, recommend they take the opportunity. If dishwashers have an Eco setting, always opt for this as it will save energy too. 22 www.
The rising cost of living
The constant worry and stress that comes with struggling to pay bills or worrying about how to feed the family for a week will take its toll, and this is something that as occupational therapists you will no doubt encounter over the coming months.
AdviseWASHINGclientstoensure
-magazine.co.uk
T
he rising cost of living is having a devastating effect on many people across the UK, with disabled people and those in low income households feeling the effects most acutely.
If your clients live in an old or draughty house, heat will be escaping rapidly when the heating on. If it is not double glazed already, it is worth looking into grants to help with this. Alternatively, they can also invest in secondary glazing which is sheets of clear Perspex that attach to the window frame, insulating the home at a more affordable cost. Recommend buying draught excluders for the bottom of doors to ensure they are keeping as much heat as possible in and make sure curtains are closed at night to keep out the cold.
In these challenging times it is important to arm yourself with knowledge and resources to help anyone who is struggling to keep up with the increasing cost of living
We have put together some information and tips to help you offer your clients some useful energy saving ideas.
There is debate about how much energy is lost when appliances are left on standby when plugged in, and by all accounts it is very little with modern appliances. However, in these times we don’t want to waste even a penny, so recommending to clients that they switch everything off at the plug socket when not in use to be on the safe side is advised. Light bulbs should be switched to LED bulbs, these are more expensive initially to buy, but they last a long time and are far more efficient to run. Remember to turn all the lights off is something that can be easily forgotten, this is where voice-activated devices like Alexa can come in handy by setting reminders to go off at certain times during the day.
ForKETTLEteaandcoffee
PLUGScosts.
ThereANDFUNDINGSUPPORTissomegovernmentsupport
AND BULBS
If an oxygen concentrator is used in the home they are entitled to a rebate for the electricity it uses. This rebate comes from the company who supplies the device, so be sure that they are claiming this.
1 2 4 3
Anyone receiving benefits, including: universal credit, income-based jobseekers allowance, incomerelated employment and support allowance, income support, working tax credit, child tax credit, pension credit are entitled to a cost-of-living payment of £650. This being delivered in two payments, the first payment of £326 should have already been paid in July and the date for the second payment is still being determined.
looking into the winter fuel payment, cold weather payment and the warm home discount. These funds are there to help people afford to heat their homes through the winter weather, so make sure they are not missing out.
in place already: Every household will receive a £400 discount on the energy bills. This will be delivered in the form of six monthly payment discounts beginning in October 2022. For those who pay by direct debit this discount will come off the monthly payment, and for those on a prepaid meter this will be delivered via a voucher or a cheque in the post. Any household in council tax band A-D should have already received a one-off payment of £150 to help with energy bills.
All households that receive the winter fuel payment and have at least one pensioner living there will receive a payment of £300 in November or MostDecember.energysuppliers have hardship funds in place to help those who need it most. If your client is struggling to keep up with energy bills ensure they do not just stop paying them, ask them to speak to their supplier to work out a payment plan as this will mean they are legally Recommendprotected.
drinkers, it is worth recommending them to try to be conscious of how far they fill the kettle. Overfilling the kettle to more than you need wastes energy every time you turn it on to heat all that water, if just one cup of tea is needed just heat that amount of water, or make a pot of tea and pop a tea cosy over it to keep it warm so many cups of tea can be enjoyed over the
23www.
Martin Lewis runs the well-known website MoneySavingExpert.com and this is a great resource of information and advice on saving money in all aspects of life, so it is worth pointing your clients in that direction for further research. These next few months will take their toll on many people. The stress and anxiety from constant money worries will adversely affect people’s mental wellbeing, it is important to be aware of your client’s mental health in these times and to take any appropriate measures to help them through this. -magazine.co.uk
BargainSHOPPINGmorning.huntingisagreat way to save money. The art of yellow sticker buying has never been more needed. Seeking out reduction aisles in the local supermarket can be a great way to reduce shopping costs and buying items from there that can be frozen is a great way of stocking up the freezer for future meals. Planning meals for the week to a budget will also help clients to reduce their
Easy, nutritious and friendlyWiltshire Farm Foods delivers. Have peace of mind that individuals are eating well at home with delicious dishes to suit most tastes and DELICIOUSdiets. AND NUTRITIOUS MEALS No contract or commitment Energy-dense smaller portions Over 340 delicious dishes Free delivery by regular drivers Quick and easy to cook in oven or microwave To order brochures or go online www.wiltshirefarmfoods.com Call 0800 524 4207 Delivered straight to the freezer Wiltshire Farm Foods is part of the apetito family, providers of award-winning meals to hospitals. apetito.co.uk
What is the best thing about your role?
For example, we have a gentleman who is diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome. We learned from his family that he hadn’t been outside for at least three years. He was stuck in bed and had appeared to have entirely lost his He’dmotivation.beena farm worker used to building barns and our initial aim was to get him up and out of bed.
MikeTurney
Mike is an occupational therapist working with patients who have progressive or acquired neurological conditions through specialist neurological care provider PJ Care. 25
I’m an occupational therapist covering three care centres which are home to people with a range of progressive neurological conditions and acquired brain injuries. I’ve worked with PJ Care since qualifying in 2020. I already had experience of neurological care, having worked for several years as a healthcare assistant in homes caring for people with spinal injuries, dementia and challenging behaviours.
The relationships we build with the residents are the best and the hardest thing! They can be with us for a number of years. Some of them pass and others get to a point where they can go home. Either way, saying goodbye is never easy.
Describe a typical day... My day starts with a handover meeting with the multi-disciplinary therapy team. I get an update on any significant changes in the residents, hospital admissions and so on. I have a working case load, and while we have a number of residents who are with us for rehabilitation, the majority of my work is with permanent Iresidents.createa framework of personcentred, therapeutic activities that are put into practice by our therapy technicians. Input into these frameworks can come from anyone – from the housekeeper to a member of the board. We’re a familyrun business, everyone knows the residents and notices things about them that can be hugely important in improving their wellbeing. I’m on the floor for the majority of the day. I might have a one-toone session with a resident or be overseeing a group session. Having an in-house therapy team is so beneficial - we can do joint sessions with the physiotherapist, for example, and because we’re both seeing the resident at the same time, we can develop a holistic care plan. Every Thursday we have a full MDT meeting. This can involve me, our technicians, speech therapist, equipmentdiaryadmin,residents.myIresidents. thinkjoin.breakawaynursesconsultant clinical neuropsychologist,physiotherapist,–wecanevencreatesessionsforfamiliestoIt’sanincrediblyusefultimeandIitmakesforabetteroutcomeformanagemyowndaysoIworkbreaksaroundtheneedsoftheTheendofthedayisforincludingacommunicationsostaffknowofanychangesorthat’sbeenarranged.
I organised a bespoke wheelchair system to make the transition easier and the physiotherapist, the therapy technicians and I worked on getting him walking with support.
Turney
He’s now able to get outside and has become an avid member of our gardening club because it gets him out in the fresh air. We’ve reignited his motivation. He smiles now, and as well as improving his quality of life, we’ve transformed things for his family, too.
I also love the scope I have at PJ Care to put ideas into practice. There’s very little bureaucracy and that makes for a very creative and open working environment. If you’re motivated, the sky’s the limit!
a atooccupationaldifferenttherapistseewhatatypicaldayisforthemandexplainlittlemoreabouttheirrole
What is the hardest thing about your role?
Seeing the transformation in residents, however small. People often come to us after five or six failed placements because other homes don’t have the time or skills to meet their needs.
A day in the life of... we talk to
What is your current role and how long have you worked in it?
Each month...
Mike
26 www. -magazine.co.uk THE ESSENCE OF OT
Kate Beauchamp shares her OT journey as part of the Macmillan therapy team at Churchill Hospital in Oxford working with patients living with cancer I have been an OT within the Macmillan therapy team for nearly four years since the service started, and (now) I love my role! We are a small team of therapists, comprising one full time equivalent band 6 OT and one full time band 7 Our team was initially funded for two years by the cancer charity Macmillan as part of a scoping project to consider the unmet needs of patient’s passing through cancer services within the acute sector. Initially, we only accepted referrals from patients with a diagnosis of a primary brain tumour or metastatic prostate cancer. This was purely due to stakeholder buy-in from these teams. During this period, we received guidance from our Macmillan partnership manager and completed periodic service reviews. A steering group was also formed comprising stakeholders from the Oncology and Haematology directorate and wider Oxford Universities Hospitals NHS Trust to help guide the service and to obtain on-going NHS trust funding.
I feel very privileged to be in such a position and love that I can practice in such a holistic way to really promote the essence of OT We pride ourselves on being able to offer a personalised service that recognises how a person’s priorities and needs can change over time
in on my core OT skills in a way that is perhaps less restrictive than in my previous roles. I appreciate that I am lucky to be able to spend time with my patient’s, really getting to know them and helping recognise and realise their priorities, often revisiting what is important to them away from the medicalised world that they are often immersed in during their cancer journey.
Following a period of negotiations and presentation of relevant data, our service was successful in achieving this funding and we are now employed by the NHS, whilst keeping our identity as Macmillan professionals, meaning we still represent and have on-going support from the Althoughcharity.
my colleagues and I had experience working in acute oncology and haematology, and a passion for working in this area, finding our feet at the beginning was a real challenge. From feeling confident and competent in acute ward work, we found ourselves with a new freedom to mould the service to best suit should be directing our input and reassuring each other that we were going in the right direction. The team is now fully up and running with clear goals and objectives, and receives regular referrals for patients with any type of cancer, based on identified needs rather than diagnosis. We work flexibly to best meet our patient’s needs, seeing them either as in-patients, out-patients or in their own homes, and base ourselves either onsite in the hospital or working from home accordingly. We can offer specialist OT or physiotherapy to our patient’s at any stage, from diagnosis to recovery, or planning for end of life care. We pride ourselves on being able to offer a personalised service that recognises how a person’s priorities and needs can change over time and adapt our input accordingly. We were also able to adapt our practice during the pandemic to meet our patient’s needs in a more creative manner, using video calls, or simply meeting outside.
I feel very privileged to be in such a position and love that I can practice in such a holistic way to really 27www. -magazine.co.uk
Automatic Pill Dispensers and RemindersMedication Our products are widely used by Health and Social Care professionals for vulnerable older people and those with learning difficulties who need to be reminded of essential daily tasks such as taking their medication. Find out more today: pivotell.co.uk RECOMMENDING COSYFEET TO YOUR PATIENTS IS EASY WITH OUR RANGE OF FREE RESOURCES FOR HEALTH PROFESSIONALS INCLUDING: VISIT cosyfeet.com/prof OR CALL 01458 447275 FOR MORE INFORMATION for extra wide or swollen feet Copies of our catalogue and catalogue holders Information leaflets Samples of our footwear, socks and hosiery for display or demonstration purposes NEWSTYLESSEASON & COLOURS
Earlier this year, an OT was selected to appear in Netflix’s hit show, The Crown, in what could be an unparalleled opportunity to showcase the profession in a dramatic session by an actual OT I n early August, the Royal College of Occupational Therapists announced that casting agency Extra People were looking for a qualified occupational therapist to appear as a supporting character in a scene in the upcoming fourth series of The Crown. In case you’re not up on your Netflix shows, The Crown is one of the streaming platform’s most successful and critically lauded series, dramatising the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, and the incredible events that she has overseen in her 70 years as the head of state. This news was really exciting for two reasons: the first is that there’s going to be an occupational therapist featured in one of Netflix’s highest-rated, most watched, and best-reviewed series of all time, which is a phenomenal opportunity for promoting occupational therapy in the media, and increasing awareness of the profession. The second is that the representation will be accurate - a trained, highly competent and professional occupational therapist will be playing the role of a trained, highly competent and professional OT on the Occupationalshow. therapy doesn’t get the chance to shine much in the media, and sometimes when it does, portrayals can be a bit of a letdown. Late in 2018, RCOT had to issue a statement regarding the number of occupational therapists who had contacted them to share their frustration about the portrayal of occupational therapy in the BBC drama Care, which sought to highlight both the difficulties that some people face in trying to find the right support for their family and the difficulties healthcare professionals face on a daily basis. Unfortunately, as RCOT said in both their tweets on the matter and their statement, the portrayal left much to be desired, showcasing an instance of “bad practice and mismanagement”, per the College. Knowing the difference that occupational therapy can make to people’s lives, it’s difficult to see one of the very few opportunities the profession was given to be showcased to the wider public being such a negative one.
TheTakesCrown
OT
29www. -magazine.co.uk
Somewhere out there is the lucky occupational therapist who has been cast into this role, and they may feel the weight of the profession on their shoulders Promoting occupational therapy is an important aspect of the profession, and it’s completely understandable why. Occupational therapists are already fantastic at using social media to amplify the voices of their profession and raise their own profiles within the community, make lasting professional relationships, and networking. Social media has been a phenomenal tool for breaking down the barriers that made connecting with other people within the occupational therapy community more difficult. Now, you’re able to follow the professional developments of an occupational therapist hundreds of miles away from the simple push of a button on your phone, and it truly is incredible. This has done wonders for linking up the community of occupational therapists, but contributions from outside forces - the media, as a prime example - are sometimes needed to open the world of occupational therapy up to people who are not intimately familiar with its Openingworkings.up the wonderful workings of occupational therapists to people who exist outwith professions who rub shoulders with them and are lucky enough to know them, or service users who allow OTs to cement the importance and professionalism carried alongside their work helps people to get to know (maybe not exactly) what it is an occupational therapist does and can help attract young people who may be drawn to the creative, empathetic, problem-solving nature of the profession. What more perfect way is there to stumble across the wonderful work that an occupational therapist does than to encounter it in your favourite TV show, seeing them perform important work with some of the most important people in the world - or, to be precise, the people acting as them - and to see it being portrayed as it actually is, by someone who understands the role Somewhereintimately?outthere is the lucky occupational therapist who has been cast into this role, and they may feel the weight of the profession on their shoulders as they, a highly competent and professional OT, take up the mantle of playing one on our televisions. But what that one OT can do in terms of bringing a profession of talented, creative and wonderful people into the spotlight with the utmost accuracy is almost unparalleled. If Helen of Troy is remembered (somewhat unfairly) as the face that launched a thousand ships, hopefully, this lucky individual can be the OT that launched a thousand careers as The Crown’s viewership of 73 million households sees an occupational therapist accurately performing their work in a dramatic setting forperhaps - the first time. 30 www. -magazine.co.uk
Theconfiguration.optionseither
There is an innovative, quick way to at least manage risk for clients needing adaptations, that also often eliminates the need for- and resulting delay of- means testing.
The only question is: why are YOU not making the most of this option?
or intrusive fixed alternatives (stairlift, through-floor lift). Unlike fixed alternatives, the stairclimber can also enable someone to overcome steps out into their garden, or the street, optimising their health & wellbeing. With thousands already purchased by local authorities nationwide, chances are there is one in Equipment Stores, which can be re-issued for less than £1000!
AAT GB- aka the stairclimber people- offers a range to suit almost every preference, client, operator and stair include an integral seat, or can be quickly and easily attached to a wheelchair. A range of accessories ensure each user is perfectly secure and supported. The latest- the Universal Back- is infinitely adjustable to provide the support and security in transit for anyone- young, old, large or small. Thus, anyone with reduced mobility can be safely transferred between floors, with no need for disruptive
Our promise to you is that one of our nationwide assessment managers will do their utmost to be with you/your client with 10 working days. A new stairclimber can be delivered within 3 working days of receipt of order.
A STAIRCLIMBER
Easy steps to address delay and minimise risk
Book your free no obligation assessment here: https://www.aatgb.com/s-max/ e: sales@aatgb.com t: 01978 821875 31www. -magazine.co.uk
Additionally, JCBS involve a group of adults with learning disabilities from a local NHS adult care centre in their everyday farming activities.
While JCBS has created many different avenues to benefit the mental and physical wellbeing of their local community, they also provide placement opportunities for occupational therapy students on their role emerging placement. The students get a unique opportunity to develop several clinical skills and at the same time, the JCBS staff learn about the role of occupational therapy, and they receive thought-provoking suggestions. For example, during my time at JCBS, accessibility to certain areas of the farm was improved by using the “Adaptations toolkit NI”, a document which streamlines the terminology of housing adaptations for people and contractors.
32 www. -magazine.co.uk
OT Johanna Rohde highlights how farming and occupational therapy can come together in a unique way to benefit a range of communities
Social farming can be adapted for a range of client groups according to their individual goals and abilities. It is also very compatible with occupational therapy because the activities promote mental wellbeing and increase physical activity at the same time. I would like to share a little about a farming project that I got to know more about on my role-emerging placement in
I
Benefit Society (JCBS), based in Northern Ireland, contributes to the wellbeing of the local community by involving various groups of people and bringing them closer to nature and local produce.
The individuals enjoy attending farming sessions, especially looking after the animals. Their carers report back that the visits at JCBS improve physical activity and social interaction of the attendees. Vegetables grown and meat produced from the farm are sold to the local community, which helps to improve nutrition and the farm-to-fork relationship.
n recent years evidence has emerged showing how beneficial spending time outdoors can be for physical and mental health by reducing stress and anxiety and increasing physical activity. As a result, more and more NHS trusts and charity organisations include therapeutic activities involving nature in their programmes. Gardening and forest bathing may be the most famous ones that come to mind. Another great example, that particularly aligns with the core concepts of occupational therapy, is social farming. Through participation in ordinary farming activities individuals experience social connection, meaningful activity, and the restorative power of nature.
Jubileeuniversity.Community
SOCIAL FARMING
People of all ages are welcome to attend weekly volunteering days to participate in tasks on the farm. This may involve weeding vegetable beds, changing goat bedding or cutting hedges. Volunteers return regularly because of feeling useful, refreshed, and energised after helping. A group of asylum seekers from various backgrounds also regularly visit the farm during those volunteering days. These visits are a great opportunity to improve language skills, integration, and collaboration.
Recommendations included: creating a start and end activity with the group, a routine, adaptation of tools and other equipment, as well as adapting the pacing of activities where necessary. We also discussed how to best communicate new and important information and instructions, for example, by using simple sentences or picture flash cards where possible. It was a great collaboration, bringing together research, occupational therapy values and the experience and opinions of the JCBS Anotherstaff.student was able to create and conduct a survey with the attendees of the social farming sessions, their carers, and adult centre staff to assess how the farming sessions impact the service users in their everyday life. She concluded that all individuals enjoyed attending the farming sessions and that these increased their levels of physical activity and verbal interaction with carers and family. The student was also able to put together a report for the NHS adult centre, describing her findings and highlighting the positive outcome. Working with such a unique organisation has highlighted the adaptability of occupational therapy. Its ideas and concepts can be translated to a variety of contexts and activities outside the ordinary OT setting. At the same time, working at the JCBS farm and spending time outdoors highlighted the importance of looking after the health and wellbeing of the environment and the need for finding sustainable ways to deliver OT services. JCBS staff welcomed the input and recommendations made by OT students on their placement and gave an idea of how their work can diversify and add to the multiple ways of how they benefit their local community and Forbeyond.more information please visit Jubilee.coop, or email
33www. -magazine.co.uk
Additionally, I put together content for a workshop to evaluate the social farming sessions and how those can be adapted to meet the needs of every individual.
JohannaRohde@mail.co.uk
Say hello to ark Tamo™ The world’s most secure push-button key safe Extra high visibility with illuminated buttons and internal vault 9.7m secure combinationscode Large, easy to use buttons for effortless access securityUnparalleledinitsclass Be one of the first to see the all new ark TamoTM. Visit the Key Safe stand K60 at the OT show, NEC Birmingham, on 23-24 November. www.keysafe.co.uk | 0330 363 0303 BUDGET •••••thecompetitorandpeopleoffersTheFROMBATHTUBFRIENDLYSOLUTIONROPOXheightadjustableBathtubfromRopoxasuperbcost-effectivesolutionforthatareunabletouseashowerisalmost50%cheaperthanitsnearestwithanRRPofunder£5000forbath,mixertapandshowerrose.Heightadjustablefrom61-91cm.Availableinthreesizes(160x50cm.,170x75cm.and180x80cm.)Maxuserweight250kg.CanalsobeusedasashowerbedEasytooperateandmaintain For more information on the full range of Ropox equipment or to book an assessment Please call 07444 577609, visit www.ropox.co.uk or e-mail ms@ropox.com.
Product 35 FOCUS
Every issue we bring you the latest products from across the market to help you improve the lives of your clients
WHITE ROSE COLLECTION JESSICA SWIMWEAR 1
Designed with ostomates in mind, this swimming costume has an inner pouch across its entire width, which helps to contain and support a stoma bag while the wearer is in the water. The gathered material over the front of the costume helps draw less attention to the stoma bag. Available in three 0345WhiteRoseCollection.comcolourways.4601910
A safer solution to helping people after they have fallen, the IndeeLift slides into position underneath the fallen person and gently moves them from the floor into a standing position, helping to maintain dignity, and without the need to manoeuvre a conventional hoist or sling system into AATgb.complace. | 01978 82 18 75 -magazine.co.uk
INDEELIFT2 1 www.
SONIC DIGITALALERTCLOCK4
Small and lightweight, this mirror therapy box can be packed away when not in use, and can easily be transported to wherever it needs to be used. The mirror is protected by the material of the box when folded down, preventing it from getting damaged, and the box features a rear observation 0161ReflexPainManagement.companel.4084455 www. -magazine.co.uk
HEY!
36
4 5
This extra-loud digital alarm clock is ideal for people living with hearing loss, and its robust “bed shaker” produces a physical response that can help wake clients up. The Sonic Alert clock rings at 113dB, compared to traditional alarm clocks which ring at a volume of 80dB. It plugs into the mains, but has a battery back up in case of power failure. HomeLoft.uk | 02081 038999
FOLDING MIRROR THERAPY BOX 3
Featuring two-way communications, night vision, and live video streaming, this fancy doorbell helps you to feel more confident about who you’re opening your door to. When a visitor calls, a notification will be sent to a connected smartphone, allowing you to answer even when you can’t reach the HeyImHome.co.ukdoor. | 01925 358 072 SMART DOORBELL5
Lightly coconut scented, these rinsefree antibacterial wipes are helpful for removing body odour and are extra wet for full-body cleansing. They’re safe to use anywhere on the body (except the eyes), have a large surface area, and are biodegradable and plastic-free. Also available with a grapefruit FreshWipes.co.ukscent. | 01323 724258 FRESHWIPES BODY WIPES7 Ideal for people living with Parkinson’s disease or with a disrupted walking pattern, this rollator has a laser line which prompts the user to begin movement, using a metronome and vibration within the handles to provide cues. The walking rhythm can be adjusted via the module on the device, or through the Rollz app. Rollz.com | (+31) 20 362 2010 ROLLZ MOTION RHYTHM8 Adaptable for a host of sports, this sports wheelchair features a toe guard included as standard, making it ideal for rugby, basketball, and GAA. Made of hardy materials to combat the contact nature of sports, it comes in an assortment of colours which reflect its size. Lap, foot, and leg straps are JohnPreston.co.ukincluded.|028 9267 7077 JOHN MULTISPORTSPRESTONWHEELCHAIR6 37 8 7 6 www. -magazine.co.uk
This year, Malnutrition Awareness Week runs from the 10 - 17 October; it being a time to highlight the preventability of the condition and recognise the importance of correct management. As OTs, it’s useful to understand the signs of malnutrition, as well as being able to signpost individuals to helpful resources. This could help to manage malnourishment early and minimise the need for more intensive interventions. Not only will this potentially help you, through improving the patient’s ability to carry out tasks as they move throughout the day, but also reduce the financial pressure that malnutrition puts on the NHS and other patient services.
HOW OTS CAN SUPPORT SERVICE USERS WITH MALNUTRITION
M
38 www. -magazine.co.uk
Maia Fergus-O’Grady, registered dietitian with Wiltshire Farm Foods, explores the importance of being able to recognise the signs of malnutrition
alnutrition is a common problem that is likely to affect a significant number of patients on a healthcare professional’s caseload. Despite its prevalence, it is commonly overlooked and undertreated. Older adults (aged 65+) are more likely to develop nutritional deficiencies, with over one in 10 individuals in this age group being at risk of malnourishment.
given to those with malnutrition can be conflicting to those living with diabetes; for example, adding jam or honey to porridge, or incorporating more desserts into their diet. There is a fine balance between managing their diabetes correctly, and ensuring the individual stays nourished and at a healthy weight.
PLANT-BASED DIETS
With OTs working together with their multidisciplinary team and being able to signpost individuals to useful resources in the early stages of malnutrition, it can not only improve the quality of life of the service user, but also potentially reduce pressure on fellow healthcare professionals and the NHS.
Malnutrition is a complex condition, and can present itself in many ways. Aside from a clear drop in weight, other signs of malnutrition include: Jewellery becoming looser or slipping off Looser, ill-fitting dentures Catching bugs and colds more frequently, developing infections more regularly
Clear change in the ability to complete everyday tasks
As an OT, it may be helpful to know the local meal delivery services available to service users, particularly those using ‘Traffic Light’ labelling, which enables the customer to easily identify which meal options are low, medium, or high in fat, saturated fat, salt and sugar. It may also prove beneficial to have an awareness of where service users can find more information on managing their dietary intake if they’re not yet at the point of needing a dietetic Diabetesreferral: UK is the leading charity providing information to those with diabetes; one of their many useful resources includes a guide called ‘Older people and diabetes’. Several journals, such as Practical Diabetes, provide more in-depth advice on ‘Nutrition in older adults living with DysphagiaDYSPHAGIAdiabetes’.(swallowingdifficulties) can occur for a variety of reasons, and means that individuals can no longer move their food from the mouth to their stomach in a safe, effective way. Texture-modified meals are key in its management, however, research indicates that those with dysphagia are more likely to be at risk of malnutrition than the general population.
Marie Curie has a web page dedicated to providing information on those who have difficulty swallowing.
As OTs, you do not need to have an in-depth understanding of ways to boost the nutritional content of meals, but it may be useful to have an idea of resources you can point people to, which Vegetarianinclude: for Life is a charity working alongside older adults who follow a plant-based diet, and they have a publication called ‘Nutrition for older vegetarians and vegans’.
The latest episode from Wiltshire Farm Foods’ Dietitian Diaries podcast focuses on sustainable eating. To listen, download from wherever you source your podcasts from.
39www. -magazine.co.uk
There are several reasons why someone may follow a plant-based diet; it may link to ethics or sustainability, but it can also be associated with cost and health implications. Often, the advice given to those needing to increase their dietary intake is to fortify meals with dairy products such as butter, cream, or cheese. They may also be advised to further improve their intake by consuming high energy snacks such as sausage rolls, quiches, and yoghurts, as well as being encouraged to make up nourishing milk-based drinks. Whilst there are now more plant-based options than ever before, for many, suitable options available to them may be limited, thereby increasing their malnutrition risk.
Having to tighten belts with extra notches, clothes becoming looser Difficulties chewing and swallowing Empty cupboards, food rotting in fridge Changes in mood, lethargy, feeling down more patient groups that might need more support in maintaining or improving their dietary intake. Below, three of these groups have been highlighted, with further advice provided and several useful organisations signposted.DIABETESOnoccasion,theadvice
Many go undiagnosed, particularly in a community setting. Whilst some service users may choose to blend their meals at home from scratch, for others, this may not be a feasible, or safe solution and they may instead require that texture-modified meals are delivered to their home.
For OTs, understanding the common signs and symptoms of dysphagia would be valuable, as well as how the management of dysphagia can impact the practical aspects of day-to-day life, with useful resources Malnutritionincluding:Pathway is an organisation that helps to manage adult nutrition, providing several useful resources, one of which is named, ‘Dysphagia: a healthcare professional fact sheet’.
1 2 4 6 7 3 5 8
Thereregularlyarecertain
The British Dietetic Association (BDA) have also produced a food fact sheet called ‘Plant-based diets’.
Car adaptedinsuranceforyou If your vehicle has been adapted or modified to cater for your disability, or you’re a carer who needs bespoke cover, experienced insurance experts at Adrian Flux can talk you through our tailor made policies. Call Adrian Flux today to make even bigger savings with our newly reduced rates. Policy benefits can include: M New for old cover on adaptations M Breakdown cover M Any driver cover available M And many more... Call our UK team on 0800 587 5288 Ask us about our new for old cover on adaptations Authorisedadrianflux.co.uk®ulatedbytheFinancialConduct Authority Trustpilot rating checked on 17th May 2022 MT Push MT evo PRICES FROM £3995 * 0% Finance Available MT5 * 3 Year Warranty * Choice of any colour THE ALL TERRAIN WHEELCHAIR eTrike MANUAL OR ELECTRIC... Find Your WWW.MOUNTAINTRIKE.COMT:+44(0)1270Freedom842616 Explore the outdoors! FriendshipIndependenceFamily * UK Hire Available Adventure eTrike £7195 ePush * Kids Adaptations
MOTIONROLLZdisease RHYTHM
Discover the life-changing capacity of a rollator designed to support the symptoms of Parkinson’s
As hoped, the three key elements of the Rollz Motion Rhythm had a dramatic impact on Vincent’s mobility due to its unique features:
A trial of the Rollz Motion Rhythm was recommended through the OT assessment as a method of increasing confidence and consequently engagement of meaningful activities. The rollator has been designed specifically to support the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, particularly for gait freezing by using sensory feedback through a laser line, vibration and tones promoting continuous placing of steps.
LASER LINE
The line projected onto the floor surface provided a visual prompt to support longer stride length and reduced feedback from the thresh.
Both Vincent and his son felt that it was “life-changing”, as the use of the new walking aid has facilitated a more independent and active Uselifestyle.ofRollz’s Parkinson’s rollator has broken the fall cycle, which occurs from anxiety, leading to inactivity and increased risk, due to the psychological and physical reassurance it provided. This increase in activity and confidence has had a profound impact on Vincent’s overall health, wellbeing, and projected outcomes.
TRIAL ROLLATORPARKINSON’SROLLZ’SOF
The OT Service recently conducted an occupational therapy assessment and within this assessment they trialed the Rollz Motion Rhythm rollator as a measure to help with Vincent’s mobility. The case study noted that Vincent was presenting with symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, including; a stooped posture, masked expression, slow motor coordination. In addition, Vincent was also presenting with a shuffling gait and freezing while mobilising, particularly at threshes where there were changes in colour or texture under foot.
As well as the impact on gait and balance, Vincent’s posture immediately became more upright, further impacting on step length increase and stepping became more Vincent’sfluent.
Vincent also stated that he would prefer the vibration when in public, as only he would know it was happening.
V
TheSOUNDmetronomicbeep appeared to regulate step frequency, which created a rhythmical, uninterrupted stride TheVIBRATIONpattern.paceofthevibration delivered through the handles, appeared to reinforce the rhythm created by sound, but delivered through an alternative sensory experience.
You can find out more about the OT Service’s case study by scanning the QR code below. For info about Rollz’s Parkinson’s rollator you can email info@rollz.com
incent is a 79-year-old widower who has a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. He has recently moved home to be closer to his son and daughter-in-law who are helping with his care, and now lives in a detached bungalow on his own.
son stated that he had not seen his dad “stand like that for about 10 years” and mobilised throughout his property without any need for supervision or support, which his son had needed to provide since the most recent fall.
Tackling the stigma that of
42 www. -magazine.co.uk
surrounds the use
mobility aids in later life EMBRACING CHANGE
Take Queen Elizabeth II as an example: she is 96 years old but refuses to be seen using a wheelchair, while rumours speculate that she does use a wheelchair behind closed doors to navigate her expansive home. Is this because she is afraid of how she would be perceived using a mobility aid? As occupational therapists, you will most likely have experienced a patient or client who is unsure or unwilling to accept the assistance of a mobility aid, and it can be challenging to translate the incredible benefits that many devices can make to a person’s life. Social stigma is the main contributing factor to people’s resistance around using mobility aids and it is embedded in our society. Concerns around discrimination, or being seen as inferior or weak plagues the minds of many older people, who worry that as they age they will be treated differently or written off completely by society or even those close to them.
MaintainingAUTONOMYlife.autonomyintoolder age plays an important role in a person’s emotional health and wellbeing. Feeling they have control over decisions on their future, how to manage their health and the things they want to participate in, can have a positive impact on their overall wellbeing. Research has also shown that older adults who maintain autonomy in their life can help with the prevention of depression and cognitive deterioration. This is something that as an OT you will already be mindful of, and the ability to recognise the importance of a person self-governing is
The truth is that mobility aids and assistive devices are empowering, and occupational therapists are in the perfect position to help guide older people towards their use
of mobility devices will always be embedded in the practice of occupational therapy. These aids can transform user’s lives at home and out in public spaces. The introduction of mobility aids can increase social contact, keep users active, increase emotional wellbeing and ensure users can maintain routines, attend regular activities and undertake tasks like grocery shopping or using public Assistivetransport.devices in the home can provide cues to remind people to perform daily tasks including, taking medication, drinking water, attending appointments and more. Daily living aids can help with practical things like opening jars, kettle tippers can increase safety around making cups of tea or coffee, and grab rails can help with support and stability around the home.
EMPOWERINGthem.
LIFE-CHANGINGparamount.Advocatingfortheappropriateintroduction
43www. -magazine.co.uk
The range of mobility aids, assistive technology and daily living products available on the market today is astounding. The advancement in technology over the last decade has enabled product designers and manufacturers to create products that not only empower people to live their life as independently as possible, but the appearance of these products has also been Goneconsidered.arethedays of clinical looking devices that only serve a functional purpose, nowadays we are treated to a range of walking aids, wheelchairs, crutches and rollators that look stylish, come in a range of colours and have increased functionality to suit the user. This recognition across the industry that mobility devices should be more aesthetically appealing, has helped to lift the stigma that surrounds ageing and the use of mobility products. Recognising that anyone who requires the use of a mobility device in their life should at least have the choice of choosing a product that suits their style and taste helps to make people feel a bit of autonomy over their
Conversations around decreasing mobility and independence can be delicate and must be approached with sensitivity and understanding. Taking the time to listen to a person’s concerns and helping to alleviate any fears they may have around using new devices or products and quelling any worries around social stigma, will be important prior to the introduction of any assistive Onceproducts.aperson is informed on the difference that the correct product can make to their daily life, they will hopefully be far more open to introducing mobility aids into their daily routine and be able to achieve everything they want to in their later years.
DEVICES
The truth is that mobility aids and assistive devices are empowering, and occupational therapists are in the perfect position to help guide older people towards their use and educate them on the life-changing benefits offered by
G rowing older is inevitable and it comes with many changes and challenges that are unique to everyone. Health and mobility can deteriorate and require more management as we age, and this can be overwhelming for many people. Some may welcome mobility aids and devices that help them to take on everyday tasks or offer support to get them around the house, but others may resist the use of mobility aids, especially in public spaces.
ACCESS IN THE HOME
Keeping clients in their homes for longer Sweet Home
As we grow older our spatial awareness decreases in accuracy, mobility issues become more prevalent and wheelchairs or walkers are more likely to be used. If your patient lives in a property with an upstairs, it is worth discussing the prospect of creating a bedroom downstairs and also ensuring there is a that can be used for toileting and bathing or showering. If this is not a possibility and access is needed to the upstairs of the property then you can discuss the options of either a stairlift or a through floor Youlift. will find a wide range of stairlift options that can be fitted to almost any staircase now, without affecting the interior of the house. Whether you are looking at a straight staircase, a curved staircase or even considering an outdoor staircase, there will be an option available. If your patient cannot safely use a stairlift, a through floor domestic lift could be the answer. Despite what you may think, these lifts can be easily installed with minimal disruption or building work to a house; they simply need a space to travel from a room downstairs to one upstairs. They don’t require structural upheaval and can be installed so discreetly that no one would even notice they are there. Access to the garden must also be considered as this can be a sanctuary in the summer months, whiling away time in your very own garden can contribute to a person’s emotional wellbeing and for any keen gardeners this can provide physical activity and feelings of achievement and satisfaction through growing plants and flowers. 44 www. -magazine.co.uk
HOMEdownstairsbathroom
F or most patients you support as occupational therapists, remaining at home will be high on their priority list as they approach their later years or as their health deteriorates. No-one wants to leave their home; it is the place they feel safe, it has familiarity, it may hold special memories and they have privacy and comfort there. The mere thought of moving into a care facility or even into a family members home can be very distressing for some people, which can ultimately have a detrimental effect on their emotional wellbeing. The goal is always to keep patients comfortably and safely in their homes for as long as possible, until an alternative has to be looked at. Nowadays, there are many devices and adaptations that can be utilised to increase safety and accessibility in the home, and telecare options that can provide peace of mind to family members and loved ones too.
often where the family gathers or friends talk for hours over a glass of wine, the kitchen provides a hub of chatter and sustenance. Standard kitchen worktops heights and cupboard heights are inaccessible to anyone using a wheelchair, this can prevent a person from completing many daily living activities, including tasks like making a cup of tea or a piece of toast. Worktops can be lowered to allow access here, but if everyone in the house requires a different height to prepare meals in the kitchen then it would be worth considering rise and fall worktops. These cleverly designed worktops can be adjusted with the simple touch of a button that lower and raise the worktops to a suitable height for the user. Cupboards equipped with shelving that lowers out of the cupboard when opened are also a great option. Kitchen accessories to aid accessibility are widely available too. From kettle tippers and electric can openers, to liquid level indicators for anyone living with a visual impairment.
EnsuringBATHROOMclient.dignity,safetyandindependence in the bathroom is of the utmost importance. Most people, understandably, want to be able to use their bathroom in private for toileting and bathing or showering. Wet rooms are a great option for most people, using walk-in showers is not only a practical option, but a stylish one. Including a shower seat and supportive hand rails around the shower area and bathroom also no longer have to look clinical as you can find ones in chrome now, or you can use handrails that double up as towel rails so no-one even recognises them as handrails. Bathrooms are notoriously slippery places, so choosing a flooring that is non-slip would certainly reduce the risk of falls and Thereinjuries.arearange of toilets and accessories available that can help people live in their own homes for longer, using raised seats and stands to help with lowering and rising, toilets that have a wash and dry system, automatic flush and more. The Wash Seat is a very economical option that makes no permanent changes to the bathroom but works very well, should be considered where appropriate.
45www. -magazine.co.uk
TheKITCHENheartofthehome,
TheBEDROOMbedroomshouldbea room of relaxation and comfort, a place that ensures peace and rest at any time of the day. A good night’s sleep is vitally important for both physical health and emotional wellbeing, and this all starts with the bed. Ensuring your client has the right mattress and discussing the options of adjustable beds is very important. If you are working with someone who spends a lot of time in their bed, it is worth considering an adjustable bed that can change position with an easy to use remote control. Adjustable beds come all different configurations and sizes, couples can even have a double bed that uses two single mattresses to allow for individual adjustment on either side. Adjustable beds can also be a great support in helping users to get in and out of bed independently. The ability to operate everything from your bed seems rather luxurious, but it is a great way to ensure the safety of your client. Using voice-activated or remotecontrolled devices to operate blinds, lamps and switches in the bedroom can help avoid accidents and ensure the comfort of your
These doorbells offer a very safe and convenient way of answering the door whether your client is in the house or out on an errand. The camera in the doorbell will allow them to see who is at the door and talk to them too. This offers a level of safety that allows them to choose who they open the door to, if it is an unsolicited call it can be avoided, if it is a delivery they can ask them to leave it at the door or in a safe place for collection at a more convenient time. If they are unwell, they don’t need to expend energy on getting up and answering the door, they can simply talk to them through an app on their
KeysKEYphone.SAFESareoftenmisplaced and this can be distressing for many. Installing a key safe can be an excellent way to ensure that your client does not get locked out. Having a secure safe to keep a set of keys for their home in can put everyone’s minds at ease. This not only avoids the experience of getting locked out but it also allows family members or friends quick access to the home in the case of an accident or emergency. 46 www. -magazine.co.uk ...it also allows family members or friends quick access to the home in the case of an accident or emergency
The Amazon Echo Show is essentially an Amazon Echo with a screen and camera. The Show and Tell feature is part of this device and it is very helpful for the visually impaired community. Using the camera embedded in the device Alexa will identify items you are holding in your hand, a hugely helpful tool when looking for items and ingredients in your cupboard that are hard to distinguish between. This function increases accessibility for blind and visually impaired people in their own home.
Voice-activatedDEVICESVOICE-ACTIVATEDdevices,liketheAmazonEcho and Google Home, can be utilised in so many different ways. Everything from lighting to heating can be controlled by these devices, so as long as you have the compatible thermostat system, lightbulbs and plugs, you can simply ask Alexa or Siri to adjust the temperature, or to turn off the lights. They can also be used to set alarms and reminders for taking medication, remembering appointments, creating shopping lists and if they have more than one device around the house they can communicate with whoever is in the other room.
AMAZON ECHO SHOW
VIDEO DOORBELLS
exhibition commented on the bathtub being extremely easy to operate and maintain, along with it being superb value for money, and that their clients find it extremely Forcomfortable.moreinformation on the full range of Ropox equipment,or to book an assessment, call 07444577609 visit Ropox.co.uk or email MS@Ropox.com
www.easylinkuk.co.uk BedtimeSeizureMovementAlarms ModelMP5-UT Tonic/Clonicseizure detection Careralerttopager Under-mattresssensor FallPreventionBedandChairExitAlarms Newcordlessrangeof bedandchairsensors withdirectalarm signallingtocarer pager/s Telecare-AssistiveTechnology-Child&SeniorCare Creatorsofthe Memorypromptingdaily calendaralarmclockfor peoplelivingwith dementia Wanderdetection alarms Falldetecting pendantalarms GPSlocation trackers MedpageLimitedT/AEasylinkUKT:01536264869
BUDGET-FRIENDLY
AJM Healthcare is a long established provider of Wheelchair and Community Equipment Services to the NHS and Private Sector with over 35 years’ experience 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. Our current locations are Portsmouth, Plymouth, Derby, Rainham North East London, Park Royal North West London, Waltham Forest, London, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, Milton Keynes, Lincolnshire,
SomersetWhatwe offer
Working partnershipin We are recruiting compassiondignityRespect,and Our wemakepeopleuswhoare Promotingdevelopmentlearning,&innovation
he height-adjustable bathtub from Ropox offers a superb cost-effective solution for people who are unable to use a shower and is almost 50% cheaper than its nearest competitor with an RRP under £5000 for the bath, mixer tap and shower rose. The bathtub can also be used as a shower bed with the addition of a shower bed cover, which is made of soft material for comfort and features integrated drainage holes. It is once again much more cost-effective than its competitors at just £900. Unlike other brands, should the shower bed cover become damaged, it simply unzips and unclips from the frame of the bath, and a replacement can be easily installed as opposed to having to replace the entire shower bed cover and frame, which can be the case with other brands. The height of the bathtub can be adjusted from 61cm to 91cm using an electrical control which enables the user to be comfortably transferred from the bath to a changing bench, also reducing the need for manual handling. Available in three sizes, 160x50cm, 170x75cm and 180x80cm, all of which have a depth of 40cm, the bathtub is made of white fibre reinforced acrylic, has a maximum user weight of 250kg, and is suitable for children and adults. Many OTs at the recent Naidex
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. For more information on our vacancies, please visit our careers page morecareers@ajmhealthcare.vacancies/www.ajmhealthcare.com/jobs/currentatorsendaemailtoorgtorequestinformation.
BATHTUB SOLUTION FROM ROPOX T
Read on to find out SECTIONmore... All the latest from the world of paediatrics
Paediatrics
58 51 49www. -magazine.co.uk 55
link, and you’ve missed it: summer is almost over, and with that, our younger clients will be returning to school, where they’ll be back to learning, having fun, and seeing their friends. Something we’ve been thinking about is how classrooms can offer such a wonderful, supportive environment, and often allow us to see things about the children in a learning environment which can point to them needing additional support to allow them to thrive. With that in mind, we explored how girls may experience ADHD on page 51, and how they may go undiagnosed due to B masking and other societal aspects. Alongside that, we explore the fabulous world of fun and fitness that is offered by Gympanzees on page 58. The Bristol-based charity is running a campaign to open a permanent facility in the city that would offer the 66,000 disabled children and young people living an hour from the city an incredible and accessible space to play, exercise and socialise - a worthy cause! As ever, if there’s anything you would like to see included in The OT Magazine, please don’t hesitate to email us at Ros@2APublishing. co.uk - we’d love to hear from you!
DM Orthotics team of experienced Clinicians can assess, prescribe and measure any product within the DMO® Custom range. These tailormade dynamic movement orthoses® have biomechanical panelling and strategic reinforcements that: • Improve postural alignment • Increase proprioception • Stimulate the neurosensory system The DMO® Custom range is effective for a variety of conditions including Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes, Stroke, Ataxia and Dystonia. Designed and constructed in the UK +44admin@dmorthotics.comwww.dmorthotics.com(0)1209219205 We can put you in touch with our clinical team to see if our orthoses could help in managing your condition. orthosesBespoke to aid posture and stability
WHAT IS ADHD?
Much of the research regarding ADHD focuses on children, and the NHS notes that defining symptoms of ADHD in adults is more difficult due to a lack of research focused on adults, but changes are starting to be made, such as changes to the DSM-V which include diagnostic criteria for adults, which is helpful to professionals. www. -magazine.co.uk
51
Thediagnoses.NHScategorises
GIRLS ANDADHD
inattentiveness - or difficulty maintaining concentration and focus - by a number of signs, including: having a short attention span, marking careless mistakes, being forgetful, finding it difficult to stick to tasks that are tedious or time consuming, having difficulty listening or carrying out instructions, constantly changing activities or tasks, and finding organising tasks difficult. They categorise hyperactivity and impulsiveness with the following behaviours: finding sitting still difficult (especially in calm surroundings), constant fidgeting, finding concentrating on tasks difficult, excessive movement, excessive talking, finding it difficult to wait their turn, acting without thinking, interrupting during conversations, and having little or no sense of Childrendanger.living with ADHD may also live with other conditions alongside their ADHD. The most common co-morbitities of ADHD per the NHS are anxiety disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, depression, autism, sleep problems, dyspraxia, epilepsy, Tourette’s syndrome, and learning difficulties like dyslexia. Adults living with ADHD may also live with personality disorders, bipolar disorder, or obsessive compulsive disorder, and may also experience difficulties with social interaction or relationships.
Stereotypes of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder conjure images of “naughty” schoolboys. Looking past this is the key to ensuring girls living with ADHD are recognised and taken seriously
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a condition that is relatively maligned in the wider world. According to the NHS, it can be categorised by two types of behavioural issue: inattentiveness, or hyperactivity and impulsiveness. Some people living with ADHD will experience both of these issues, but others will not. They note that the symptoms of ADHD are well-known in children and teenagers, and usually can be picked up on before the individual turns six, with noted behaviours being displayed in more than one location, for example, both at home and in school.
The Royal College of Psychiatrists note that between three and six in every 100 school-aged children are living with ADHD. They also note explicitly that in children, boys are more likely to receive a diagnosis than girls, but clinics see equal numbers of adult men and women regarding
WHY ARE GIRLS MISSING OUT ON DIAGNOSES?
ADHD is pretty common - thought to be equally common in boys and girls. However, girls can experience missed or mixed diagnoses. In 1997, psychologist Stephen Hinshaw of the University of California, Berkley and his team began a study looking specifically at girls living with ADHD, and following them into adulthood, where they found that girls and boys had a similar experience of ADHD, but worked more to mask or internalise their experience. The NHS notes that girls are more likely to experience only inattentiveness, and are less likely to show “disruptive behaviour that makes ADHD symptoms more obvious”, resulting in diagnoses being missed. In 2020, Young et al noted that girls living with ADHD face the hurdle of gender bias on the path to diagnosis: “There is a strong public perception that ADHD is a behavioural disorder that primarily affects males. Hence the challenge is to raise awareness and provide training on the presence and presentation of ADHD in females to agencies that regularly interface with children, young people, and adults.” The stereotype of ADHD, as referenced by Psychiatry UK, is that of “naughty disruptive schoolboys bouncing off the walls,” but as they also note, ADHD is not gender biased. With this in mind, ADDitude Magazine lists a number of experience girls may have, knowing which could help more effectively recognise girls who are living with ADHD. These are: daydreaming in class, feelings of sadness or anxiety, exhibiting silliness, being shy or inattentive, difficulties maintaining friendships, picking at the cuticles or skin, and perfectionism. This is absolutely not to say that there is a separate ADHD for girls and for boys, or that girls will not experience any of the symptoms that are considered “traditional”, but that knowing these additional behaviours may help to recognise girls living with ADHD, and offer them the support that will encourage them to thrive. 52 www. -magazine.co.uk
Join us on any of our social media channels to connect with the OT community, share your voice, be the first to hear about CPD opportunities, enter exclusive opportunities and much more! FOLLOW@TheOTMagazine@TheOTMagazine@ot_magazine@TheOTMagazineUS Join us online at keep up-to-date with all things OT, discover new products and services, subscribe to the magazine, and read articles from your peers. SCAN THE QR CODE TO FOLLOW US
MANCHESTER CENTRAL, MANCHESTER, M2 3GX www.kidzexhibitions.co.uk Fun & features CPD seminars TUESDAY 1ST NOVEMBER 2022 9.30AM – 4.30PM KIDZ TO ADULTZ NORTH A free exhibition for children and young people with disabilities and additional needs, and the people and professionals who support them 180+ exhibitors WecatertoallsizesfromPaediatrictoBariatric. 50-degreelateral�ltforpressurerelief,comfort, andpersonalcare. Independentkneebrakesdesignedforthe DuchenneCommunity. AutoboxforAutoma�cnight-�me pressurereliefandcostsaving. Madetomeasure-MadeintheUK CentrobedUnique TurningBeds www.centrobed.com Sunken Trampolines are the experts in providing trampoline solutions for schools, care institutions and families across the UK. For a free consultation and site survey please contact us and we would be more than happy to help. m: 07801 573278 or 07765 256537 e: sales@sunkentrampolines.co.uk w: www.sunkentrampolines.co.uk
2 3 1
The Joeyy is a special prosthetic designed specifically for children under three years old who are living with an upper limb impairment. This sleeve is custom made to fit the child and comes with a handle bar tool at the end to support the child to hold handle bars on bikes, scooters and other movement toys. They come is a wide range of animal designs. 07501 866 959 | YourKoalaa.com JOEYY PROSTHETIC3
55-magazine.co.uk FOCUSProduct Every issue we bring you the latest products from across the market to help you improve the lives of your younger clients
Sunken trampolines produce the only UK-made in ground Rebound Therapy trampoline. Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, it can be made to a size that suits your client as well as be made in a range of colours, and can be implemented in a variety of different locations. 07765 256537 | SunkenTrampolines.co.uk GROUND REBOUND THERAPY TRAMPOLINES1
THE
IN
The Scotia cot is designed to stop parents stooping when tending to their little ones. It is ideal for wheelchair users as it ensures a much easier reach allowing parents or carers to pick up their little ones safely and comfortably. The Scotia also provides a safe space to play in using its high low included back rest and optional knee brake and tilt. 01233 635353 | Centrobed.com SCOTIA COT2
Kids
This portable pegboard is designed to be used for anyone working on increasing hand eye coordination. It incorporates 15 different games that will keep little ones interested and it provides audio and visual feedback to keep kids motivated and enjoying the games. LED lights help indicate where the peg goes alongside audio prompts Baffin.co.uktoo.
Encourage little ones to play and climb on this colourful jungle gym. It can be set up in the garden or indoors and offers kids a great way to explore their climbing abilities, develop their gross motor skills and have hours of fun. The framework is durable and stable and with 236 parts to choose from you can create any climbing shapes to keep the kids happy and QuadroPlay.co.ukactive.
The Baffin 1 Car Seat has been designed to offer children as much support and adjustment as possible to ensure they can achieve the optimum postural support and positioning when traveling in a car. It features a rotating platform for ease of getting in and out of the car and it boasts fully adjustable footrests, backrest and it has side supports too. 01788 892 056 | Baffin.co.uk
QUADRO CLIMBING PYRAMID5
56 -magazine.co.uk
SPECIALIST CAR SEAT6 5 6 4
SMART PEGBOARD4
57-magazine.co.uk These durable tubes can be tilted and turned allowing kids to focus on the mesmerising and soothing motion of the contents of each unique tube. Ideal for the home or in a therapy session or classroom, these tubes promote a calming and soothing environment and children will love watching the glittery or colourful contents move along. 01553 762 LearningResources.co.uk276 SENSORY FIDGET TUBES7 These three coloured wooden posts come with lids and discs or straws to post. Ideal for younger children who are exploring filling and emptying items, and great for older kids learning to colour matching and identifying shapes. Good for gross motor skills, little ones will enjoy playing with these durable toys as 0800well. 138 1370 | TTS-Group.co.uk COLOUR MATCHING POSTS8 7 8
I magine a world where children’s play areas and parks are accessible and inclusive for kids of all abilities. What a beautiful world that would be, allowing children of every age and ability to join in, have fun and socialise with other kids. In 2022, it’s difficult to believe just how hard it is for families with disabled children to find accessible play opportunities.
The Project Home Appeal is raising funds to build the first-ever Gympanzees centre, and is supported by the many families living in the South West who have experienced the benefits of Gympanzees.
house when you have a disabled child is almost like a military operation. You have to get ready, you have to think ahead, you have to do the research, about accessibility, about changing places.”
Gympanzees is an inclusive and accessible space that welcomes children of all ages and abilities to enjoy fun activities and playtime, in a welcoming and safe environment with their family, friends and carers. It is based in Bristol and currently runs pop-up spaces during school holiday periods, allowing families with disabled children access to the rare opportunity of accessible play, exercise and social interaction.
have had over 10,000 visits to their pop-up facilities over the 70 days they’ve run, proving just how in-demand their service is.
Emma from North Somerset said: “As a parent of a child with disabilities accessing fun and days out has been a challenge. Isabella was invited to her best friend’s birthday party.
A world of fun and fitness for all disabled children
Gympanzees is running a campaign to open a permanent facility in Bristol to offer the 66,000 disabled children and young people who live within an hour of Bristol access to an amazing, accessible experience
Gympanzees
Gympanzees research has shown that 77% of the 66,000 disabled children living within an hour of Bristol cannot access regular leisure facilities and are twice as likely to be lonely compared to their non-disabled peers. Gympanzees provide play, exercise, and social opportunities to disabled children and their families to improve health and help end this isolation. The charity was recently presented with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise: Innovation, for their inclusive leisure facilities.
Emma, mum to nine-year-old Isabella, said: “To have a permanent Gympanzees centre in Bristol would be life-changing for our family. It would give us a sense of belonging. We could come along with other families like us, Isabella could have her birthday party at Gympanzees, and it’s all accessible to her and her friends as Gympanzeeswell.”
Owen, a parent from Bristol, said: “The pop-ups are brilliant, but they only pop up during the holidays and can become oversubscribed – a permanent centre would change that.”
58 www. -magazine.co.uk
have been running pop-up play and exercise centres during the Easter and summer holidays as they fundraise for a permanent home. The charity takes over a school and fills it with different themed rooms and specialist kit designed for all abilities. They have seen incredible results, such as a five-year-old who slept through the night for the first time after her session and a three-year-old boy who had their first-ever laugh.
The research also highlighted that 72% of parents with a disabled child suffer mental health issues because of isolation. Leila, a parent from Bristol, said: “Leaving the
“It was a swimming pool party. And unfortunately, because Isabella is a full-time wheelchair- user, we were unable to go to the party because I couldn’t physically get her into the swimming pool. It was heartbreaking to say to your eight-year-old child, I’m sorry, you can’t go to the Gympanzeesparty.”
Gympanzees is a charity dedicated to changing this.
ThisGYMgymwill feature adult and child-sized gym equipment, as well as disability specific items including the Innowalk and MOTOmed. In addition you will find a snowboarding machine, activity walls, dance machine, active arcade games and a mechanical QUIEThorse.
TRAMPOLINEinclude: ROOM
Three in-ground trampolines will feature with hoists positioned above all trampolines. These will also be used for rebound AMUSICtherapy.ROOMfullysound-proofedmusicroom
59www. -magazine.co.uk
HOME
This will feature an interactive sandpit, multiple interactive screens and an interactive floor mat, allowing the children to change the feel of the whole room.
Sitting in the centre of the facility this playground will include wheelchair accessible slides, swings and roundabouts. It will also feature basket swings, bucket swings and regular swings, monkey bars, spinning equipment and ramps for ride-on scooters and trikes.
SWING ROOM
SENSORY
complete with high tech equipment, musical floor mat, music beams and musical walls. A fully immersive sensory experience.
ACTIVE SENSORY ROOM
Full of visual and tactile items to explore, the room will be dark with fibreoptic lights, vibrating beds and dark dens. You will also find a bubble machine and projector.
INDOOR PLAYGROUND
SOFT PLAY
GYMPANZEES
The Project Home Appeal is aiming to raise funds to allow the charity to open a permanent facility in Bristol, and the home of Gympanzees will house an incredible array of opportunities for young disabled people. The centre will
A three-floor multi-ability soft play will offer fun for everyone, with a wheelchair accessible level and built to a height that allows parents to get involved. They are also planning a sit on zip wire in this area.
For adrenaline seekers, this room will include swings hanging from the ceiling, platform swings, hug swing, bolster swing and more. You will also find hammocks for lounging, spinning chairs and rockers, plus a bouldering wall too. To find out more visit Gympanzees.org
email: help@aamail.org NEW Dry A new generation of absorbing underwear for women with incontinence, bringing total con dence with no compromise on femininity. 10h FRESHupto WEIGHT8XATABSORBSBARRIERSANTI-LEAKDOUBLELEASTITSOWN Available at id-direct.com and a wide selection of online retailers Call our freephone number for advice,orders and special promotions 0800 3896 185
1 2 3 4
criteria:willWithinContemporaryRehabilitationNeuroGovernanceModificationHousingPaediatricsMovinghealth&Handling&EnvironmentalPracticeeachcategory,theabstractsbereviewedusingthefollowingThepositiveimpactoftheproject/innovationonoccupationaltherapypracticeand/orpatientcare-supported 61www. -magazine.co.uk by qualitative or quantitative evidence or published literature. The quality of the innovation and/or research within occupational therapy practice. The potential application of the project/innovation to other areas or Thesettings.extent the project enhances the occupational therapy role and/or collaboration across the Acceptedsectors.posters will be displayed over the two days of The Occupational Therapy Show in The Poster Zone located on the exhibition floor. There will be four sessions in 2022 with work displayed in each session: Wednesday 13:00 – 14:30 Thursday 13:00 – 14:30 Dedicated viewing times are for 90 minutes, however each poster will have the opportunity to be displayed for the whole day of presentation. Presenters are asked to be present for the duration of the 90 minute session for which they are selected. Posters should be designed in portrait format for display purposes and you will find guidance and a sample template for designing your poster on The OT Show website: TheOTShow.com/PosterZone emailthedownloadToYOURSUBMITTINGENTRYsubmityourentryyoumusttheentryformfromwebsite,completethisandyourentryto CloserStillMedia.comOTShow@ the deadline of 14 October 2022.
POSTER ZONE AT THE OT SHOW
before
Will you be showcasing your work at this year’s OT Show? F
ollowing on from the success of the Poster Zone at The Occupational Therapy Show last year, entries are now open for OTs looking to share their work with their peers at this year’s show on 23-24 November at the NEC, TheBirmingham.PosterZone offers individuals and teams within the OT profession the opportunity to showcase some of the amazing work they are doing. It allows occupational therapists to share best practice amongst peers, to shout about their successes and highlight interventions and projects that have had a positive impact on the lives of the people they work Posterwith. entries are open to all sectors of OT irrespective of career level or place of work, submissions are welcomed from OT professionals from NHS Trusts, private health care, local authorities, prisons, care homes and many more. They will also welcome a limited number of industry colleague applications. Posters can also showcase work that is completed or on-going. You can submit your poster into one of the following categories: Mental
Events
PLAN, PLAN, PLAN
62 www. -magazine.co.uk
ttending exhibitions and events is a fantastic way to expand your professional knowledge, discover new products and services, network with fellow OTs and gain vital CPD for your portfolio. However, large exhibitions can be overwhelming and you can run the risk of coming away from an event like this without actually achieving the CPD goals you wanted to.
Navigating
It is of the utmost importance that you do your research before you attend any event. Most events and exhibitions have a comprehensive website outlining the conference programme or seminar line-up, and keynote speakers will be highlighted as well as workshops and demonstration opportunities. Familiarise yourself with the seminars that are taking place to help you narrow down the ones of most interest to you. It is a good idea to print off the schedule so you can circle the talks you most want to attend. In some circumstances there may be a clash of seminars that you want to see, so prioritise the ones that are most important for you and look into whether you can catch up on the other ones via an
It’s important to make the most of the events you attend to ensure you are getting as much as you can from them
A
It is important to make the most of these events, especially if you have financially invested in attending or had to take some precious time off work. There is no point in wasting your time there, so we have come up with a guide on how to make the most of exhibitions and events you are attending this year.
The problem is, if you have only a small handbag then you have nowhere to store it all, making your leisurely wander around the exhibition a bit of an ordeal as you try to precariously balance everything in your arms without dropping it all. A pull along suitcase or shopping trolley bag is the ideal solution for storing everything in, allowing you to comfortably tread the halls with one hand free for a coffee – which you will most likely need at some point. Doing this will also make using public transport much easier or even making the long trek back to the car park easier for you. You can relax, knowing everything is kept neatly tucked away for your reading pleasure when you get back to the office or when you are looking for some light bedtime reading.
63www.
MeetingEXHIBITORStoo.productexpertson their stands at an exhibition can be a great opportunity to find out more about a product or service, and to ask any of those burning questions you have, but have not had the time to sit on hold on the phone for a prolonged period of time waiting to get through to a human to discuss specifications. Getting face-to-face time with the experts is so valuable as it allows you to ask specific questions relating to a client or patient you are working with and it will allow you to assess whether the product is right for them. If it turns out that it isn’t what you’re looking for, you know that you are now armed with the knowledge for a future potential client. Seek out the exhibitor list for the event and highlight the companies you want to visit to speak to someone or see a demonstration of a product and make sure you take down their stand number so you can easily find them on the day. Be sure to factor in some free time to allow you to simply wander around the event taking in all the different products and services on offer, it’s amazing what you can discover when you are not looking for anything in particular.
BE COMFORTABLE
This may seem like an obvious one, but some people don’t realise just how far you end up walking around exhibitions – your step counter will be off the chart!
online recording – this is something more and more events are doing nowadays to enable them to reach a wider audience and offer more value to attendees. Once you have decided on the seminars and workshops you want to attend, write down the times and theatres or areas they are taking place in, so you can set out your running order for the day. This will allow you to plan some time in for exploring the exhibition, for coffee breaks, and lunch
Put on your comfiest shoes and clothes for pacing the exhibition floor, it’s one less thing to worry about. The other vital item you should consider is a small pull along suitcase or shopping trolley bag – trust us when we say you can end up laden with information. Every stand will have leaflets, catalogues, magazines, booklets and free gifts like pens, stationery, toys, measuring tapes and more to give away, and you will want to take it all.
Don’t forget to carry a bottle of water with you too, and maybe even pack a snack or a lunch to enjoy when you find a seat, exhibition centres have notoriously high prices for food and drinks, so if you can be prepared and avoid these extra costs you will be a much happier attendee. -magazine.co.uk have come up with a guide on how to make the most of exhibitions and events you are attending this year
...we
Looking for an OTot-magazine.co.ukjob?/jobs ERIC 10ConferenceContinencePaediatricCareth October 2022, Hilton Birmingham Metropole (online option also available) Our 2022 conference “Equality and Inclusion: Making sure no child is left out or left behind” is aimed at all professionals who are supporting children to achieve good bowel and bladder health and those with a continence condition. The focus will be on children with a learning disability. For more information, please visit www.eric.org.uk/conference2022 OTAC 2023 Confirmed dates An event hosted by Integrity, Trust, Respect Follow us on social media: Occupational Therapy Adaptation Conference @ukotacuk_otac #OTAC OTAC Llandrindod Wells The Metropole Hotel Wednesday 22nd March 2023 OTAC Leeds Weetwood Hall Estate Wednesday 19th April 2023 OTAC Belfast The Malone Hotel Wednesday 10th May 2023 OTAC Cambridge Bar Hill Hotel by Best Western Wednesday 14th June 2023 Visit an OTAC near you for expert seminars and exhibitors specialising in home adaptations and equipment. OTAC Glasgow Golden Jubilee Hotel Wednesday 25th January 2023 OTAC Dublin Hilton Dublin Airport Wednesday 1st February 2023 OTAC Bristol Aztec Hotel & Spa Wednesday 15th March 2023 OTAC Chester The Queen by Best Western Wednesday 13th September 2023 OTAC Kent The Spa Hotel, Tunbridge Wells Wednesday 8th November 2023 OTAC London/Watford Hilton Watford Wednesday 29th November 2023 OTAC Cardiff Vale Resort Wednesday 13th December 2023 Visit our website www.otac.org.uk to register your FREE ticket
Scotland – 8 Sept, Royal Highland Centre, NorthEdinburgh–1 Nov, Manchester Central Free exhibitions 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 10
ERICOCTPaediatric
The 2022 conference, Equality and Inclusion: Making sure no child is left out or left behind, is aimed at all professionals who are supporting children to achieve good bowel and bladder health and those with a continence condition. The focus will be on children with a learning disability. eric.org.uk/conference2022
Chester – 7 Sept, The Queen Hotel, Chester Reading - 9 Nov, Hilton Hotel, Reading Cardiff – 7 Dec, Copthorne Hotel, Cardiff
Heading hereEvents2022
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 rest of the year. 65www. -magazine.co.uk
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
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
Kidz to Adultz Events
23-24 NOV
Continence Care Conference Hilton Birmingham Metropole (online option also available)
OTAC Events
I would like to subscribe to The OT Magazine for: 1 Year (£9.99) 2 years (£17.99) Payment Method: Cheque (enclosed) Card (Details below) Card Type: Visa Mastercard Switch Solo Card Number: Valid From: Expires:CVV:PaymentYour details Please make all cheques payable to ‘The OT Magazine’ AddressName Postcode DateEmailTel:of birth: (DD/MM/YYYY) What area of OT do you specialise in?: I would like The OT Magazine to contactTheme OT Magazine, 2A Publishing, 20-23 Woodside Place, Glasgow, G3 7QL Issue: 48 SEND FORMTHISTOCall Online0141 465 2960 ot-magazinecouk/subscribe onlyfromSubscribe£9.99
Level 4 Award EDGE services 01904 edgeservices.co.ukenquiries@edgeservices.co.uk677853 Moving KeyHandling&Trainer’sCertificateCoursesavailableacrosstheUK @EDGEhandling/EdgeServicesFollow us on: EDGE services • 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. Exceptional Training with a Personal Touch 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.
Supporting Your Clients In... Utilising downstairs living spaces UK Manufactured and Customisable With A Range Of Adjustments To Suit Most Needs Reducing falls Increasing mobilisation Encouraging independence Reducing patient handling Multi-purpose solutions Rental Options Available 5 Year Guarantee Installation Included Comfortcompromise...without Laybrook Care offer free CPD training sessions on: To book training or joint visits please contact us: Prevention of client deconditioning Utilising downstairs living spaces Mobilisation of plus-sized patients 0808 274 7738 michaelh@mobility-furniture.co.ukwww.laybrook.com
