The OT Magazine – Nov / Dec 2022 by 2A Publishing

Adaptive Fashion

THE

Highlighting the brands that are designing clothes for disabled, chronically ill, and neurodiverse people

MAGAZINE Issue 49 | Nov/Dec 22

COLU M N S

PRO DUC T S

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About us

The Team

Editor: Rosalind Tulloch Assistant Editor: Katie Campbell Designer: Fionnlagh Ballantine Production: Donna Deakin Contributors: Kate Sheehan, Esther Dark, Melissa Chieza, Jo Jones, Gavin Neate, Lisa Strong, Maia Fergus-O’Grady, Helen Harrison,

This month’s issue...

Get in touch

ur favourite time of year is upon us again. That’s right, it’s time for The OT Show! A chance to meet so many of you, find out about the amazing work you have been doing, and to celebrate all things occupational therapy. These two days of the year are the highlight of our calendar because it offers such opportunity for learning and networking that you do not find anywhere else.

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

Disclaimer

The OT Magazine is published by 2A Publishing Limited. The views expressed in The OT Magazine are not necessarily the views of the editor or the publisher. Reproduction in part or in whole is strictly prohibited without the explicit written consent of the publisher. Copyright 2022 © 2A Publishing Limited. All Rights Reserved. ISSN-2056-7146

The show offers you a chance to immerse yourself in the profession, to learn about different areas of practice, to expand your knowledge base, network with your peers and spend two uninterrupted days talking about occupational therapy with like-minded individuals. We will be at stand D63 so please come and see us as we have lots going on – find out more on page 18. We have also highlighted some of the talks happening at The OT Show on page 60. This issue explores adaptive fashion and showcases some of the innovative organisations that are designing clothing specifically for disabled people. Discover the brands that are changing the face of fashion on page 27. Ever wondered how singing could be used in occupational therapy? Turn to page 32 to find out how OT Lisa Strong is using singing and drumming in a therapeutic way. I would also recommend you to read the article from Gavin Neate founder of WelcoMe, a system that allows disabled people to notify venues of their access needs prior to arrival. WelcoMe provides users with autonomy over their access needs and can have a hugely positive impact. We hope you enjoy this issue, if you would like to contribute an article on your work please email Ros@2APublishing.co.uk.

The OT Magazine, Editor

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

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

What’s inside 27

07 What’s New

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

11 The Reality of a Fall Kate Sheehan discusses the impact falls can have on a person and their loved ones

12 Life Hacks Esther Dark considers the value of life hacks for people living with eating disorders

15 Future Frontline The not-for-profit community interest group bringing AHPs together

18 Join us at The

OT Show!

Visit The OT Magazine team at The OT Show! 4

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

25 Day in the Life Jo Jones takes us through a day in her life as a case manager working with people living with brain injuries

27 A Fit That Fits Discover adaptive clothing options for your clients and patients

30 WelcoMe to Access Creator of WelcoMe Gavin Neate explains how the app transforms the lives of its users

52 41 Fred Mill Signature

Commode Chair

Meet the new commode on the block

45 Brilliant Bidets Bidets can make a huge difference in supporting someone’s toileting needs

48 Returning to Work

After Brain Injury

Helen Harrison explains how OTs can support people returning to work with a TBI

52 Festive Fun Christmas crafting ideas for those young and young at heart

Product

Focus 35

32 Singing for Health OT Lisa Strong shares her experience of using singing and drumming in a therapeutic way

35 Product Focus More of the latest must-have products

38 The OT Show Will you be attending the biggest event of the OT calendar?

57 Paediatric Products Innovative products for younger clients

60 CPD Opportunities Getting in your hours at The OT Show

63 Safe Spaces OT communities where you can find support and nurture

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

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Maximum security for peace of mind Keeping people safe is our top priority. Our ark Tamo™ has passed a 10-minute independent attack test, giving it Police Preferred status and making it the most secure push-button key safe, ever. It has a multi-push keypad meaning each button can be used up to 4 times, giving you 9.7m memorable code combinations.

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9.7 m secure code combinations

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

What’s new? SEATING MATTERS SHOWCASE NEW UPGRADES AT THE OT SHOW Seating Matters are following up the announcement of their Sydney GoFlat chair earlier this year with upgrades to their Phoenix and Sorrento chairs, which they will showcase at The OT Show at the end of November. “The Seating Matters Phoenix and Sorrento chairs are used in long term care facilities, hospitals and home-care environments all over the world,” said Seating Matters director Jonathon Tierney. “Patients and caregivers tell us every day that the chairs we make change their lives. Hearing such powerful feedback really drives

benefits there have been untold mental and emotional benefits for patients. Our very first patient was in an ICU unit in Australia and her occupational therapist thought the Sydney GoFlat was a game changer in her patient’s treatment,” said Tierney.

“Continuous improvement is at the heart of everything we do at Seating Matters. This ethos has allowed us to make exciting upgrades to the Phoenix and Sorrento models which we’re excited to unveil for the first time at the OT Show in November.”

“The Sydney chair allowed this patient to engage with friends and family, spend time outside and sit in a more upright position to eat a meal. The patient commented on numerous occasions that sitting in the chair was “life changing” and ‘the highlight of her year so far.’ She loved the fact that time spent in the chair gave meaning and purpose to her day and provided a structure and routine.’”

Response to the Sydney GoFlat chair, which they launched in June of this year, has been positive: “Feedback we have heard during the field testing phase of this exciting new chair is that in addition to the many significant physical and functional

Seating Matters can be found at stand F30 at The OT Show, and Martina Tierney, OT and clinical director, will also be presenting in theatre 3 at 1.15pm on Wednesday 23, and at 2.15pm on Thursday 24 November.

our business mantra of ‘Just Ask The Patient.’”

THE OT SHOW IS BACK The UK’s leading event for the occupational therapy community will return to the NEC Birmingham on 23 and 24 November, offering OTs the opportunity to network with over 3,500 of their colleagues from across the country. OTs will be able to choose from over 100 CPD-accredited interactive

lectures and practical workshops covering clinical areas including governance, mental health, paediatrics, housing, moving and handling, and more, and get handson with thousands of products from the over 270 healthcare providers exhibiting at the event. They’ll also be able to visit The OT Magazine

team, as we’re one of the official media partners for The OT Show, to sign up for a subscription and receive our coveted OT Magazine tote bag, visit stand D63. Registration for the event is free. For more information about the event, visit TheOTShow.com. www.

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BRIDGE LIT TO HONOUR OTS

Occupational therapists were celebrated across the world on October 27 in celebration of World Occupational Therapy Day, and OTs in Cheshire were honoured as the Mersey Gateway Bridge was lit up green in their honour. The 2km bridge was illuminated in the traditional bottle green that’s associated with the profession, and was organised by Bridgewater Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust as a way of saying thank you to their staff in

Halton for everything they’ve done in the past year. In a tweet, Jillian Wallis, assistant director for Halton community services at the Trust, said: “To all my fellow occupational therapists and their teams I want to say, happy World OT Day! You all do an amazing job and we value your contribution…we are lighting up Mersey Gateway Bridge for you all wherever you work in whatever role”. The theme of this year’s World Occupational Therapy Day was “opportunity + choice = justice”, and

NHS ESTABLISHES RAPID RESPONSE TEAM FOR FALLS NHS chief executive Amanda Pritchard has said that rapid response teams to help people who have fallen at home or in care homes will be expanded in advance of what they expect to be a “very challenging winter”. It’s hoped that expanding the service will prevent around 55,000 elderly people from needing to go to hospital as a result of falls, which they hope will help curb backlog and wait times for services. A quarter of all category three and four calls received in January of this year related to falls. Pritchard said: “Winter comes hot on the heels of an extremely busy

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summer – and with the combined impact of flu, COVID and record NHS staff vacancies – in many ways, we are facing more than the threat of a ‘twindemic’ this year. “So it is right that we prepare as much as possible –the NHS is going further than it ever has before in anticipation of a busy winter, and today we have set out further plans to step up these preparations – building on our existing plans to boost capacity set out in August this year. “Whether it be new services to support people who have fallen at home, hubs to treat respiratory infections, or system control centres

OTs from across the 107 national professional organisations that represent OT shared and reflected on what this theme meant to them. “Opportunities should be accessible to all no matter of your socioeconomic, cultural, gender, [or] background,” OT Nay told us on Instagram. “You should have choice in your occupations that you choose to engage in and the accessibility and reasonable adjustments to be able to engage in them, this equals justice for all.”

helping us to navigate pressures across the entire country, every one of these initiatives will make a real impact on the ground – helping to relieve pressure on frontline staff as well as seeing patients quickly and directing them to where they can receive the best possible care.”

SOMERSET GP PRACTICES INTRODUCE OTS

Five primary care networks across Somerset have introduced occupational therapists into their teams, with seven OTs employed by the Somerset NHS Foundation Trust taking roles in West Somerset, Taunton, Dean West, Taunton Central, West Mendip, North Sedgemoor, and the ChardLangport-Ilminster network. The move hopes to offer patients

RCOT CALLS FOR SCHOOLS TO HAVE OTS In an open letter to the Minister for Schools, Kelly Tolhurst, the Royal College of Occupational Therapists has called for every school across the country to have access to a children’s occupational therapist. The letter, which followed a recent survey regarding children’s services, also highlights the tremendous increase in demand for paediatric OTs’ services, with RCOT reporting that 85% of OTs stating that requests for their services has increased since July of 2021, and 65% saying that

early access to occupational therapy within Somerset, and hopes to see more OTs in GP surgeries across the area within the next two years. Speaking to the Somerset County Gazette, head of occupational therapy at the Trust Becky Keating said: “We are very pleased to be able to extend our OT service into GP practices, bringing our unique skills into the well-established teams who children are “presenting with more complex physical, learning, and mental health needs.” RCOT’s key recommendations in their letter to the new minister to correct the “unsustainable equation” that has arisen as the need for paediatric OTs has sharply increased include streamlining and investment in equipment and adaption services to reduce delays in provision, the inclusion of OTs in school mental health teams, strong OT leadership to ensure the effective use of their skills and workforce, and that children’s OT services receive resources that meet the needs of their local community and support their children and young people. The letter concluded with a request for Tolhurst to discuss these findings with the College, and noted: “We recognise there will be many pressing issues in your new ministerial inbox, however recent statements from senior leaders in the Government about the importance of children’s services highlights that urgent action is needed.”

know their local people. “Our OTs spend their time working within our primary care network multidisciplinary teams on a range of healthcare priorities, such as enhanced health in care homes, anticipatory care, responding to health inequalities, early cancer diagnosis, cardiovascular disease, and reviewing medications. “The service is proactive rather than reactive and uses the latest technology to help us reach out to those at risk of developing long-term conditions.” She added that the OTs will be working as part of the multidisciplinary team within the primary care networks to support patients with their specific needs and goals in patients while working closely with the community and developing the innovative service.

Looking for an OT job?

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Chairs, engineered for care

S E AT

IGN U P

ADED

G SYST E

Sydney GoFlat

Phoenix

Sorrento

Enables safe and efficient transfer of critical care patients from lying in bed to fully seated.

For highly dependent patients with complex postural and seating needs.

For low mobility patients and patients with extended stays in bed.

seatingmatters.com

23-24 Nov 2022 The NEC Birmingham Stand F30

Kate Sheehan Director, The OT Service

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

THE REALITY OF A FALL T here is a wealth of evidence about the impact of a fall on an older person, much of which I have read over the years whilst working in social care and the independent sector. However, the reality of it and the personal impact on a member of your family makes you reflect on our role, the equipment we prescribe, and the post fall support we provide. We recently took my mother-in-law Gerry over to the Isle of Wight to see her daughter and extended family. She hadn’t seen them for over three years due to the pandemic and failing health of her husband, so she was really looking forward to the visit and especially meeting her new greatgranddaughter. Gerry is 80 years old; she lives with dementia and mobility impairments, she still maintains some insight but walks slowly without equipment as she is unable to work out how to sequence walking using a stick or frame. She spent a day with the extended family celebrating the new arrival and catching up with her daughter, and on picking her up she walked towards us holding a cup of coffee, tripped over a child’s scooter and fell, slumped into the doorway to the garden. Professional mode kicked in and I checked for any obvious injuries and with help supported her into a sitting position. We knew that we would not be able to assist her to stand due to her weight and poor mobility, so the emergency services were called. The ambulance arrived extremely quickly and following an assessment of any potential injuries, they wanted to get

Gerry up and onto a trolley. Off they went and brought back the Mangar Elk, they carefully supported her to move side to side to get the cushion into position under her bottom and lifted her one segment at a time, making sure she felt safe and secure. Once up to the top, they could put the trolley alongside her in the room and she was assisted to complete a sliding transfer onto the trolley, the paramedics kicked the Elk out of the way and proceeded with checking vital signs again. A quick visit to A&E, nothing broken, and back to the hotel with the most amazing bruising appearing within hours. The situation really made me reflect, both personally and professionally, on what happened; the return to her residential care home, the impact on us as family, and the long-term impact for my mother-in-law. The professional reflections have been really useful for my ongoing clinical practice: 1 Falls rarely happen in the middle of a room. 2 Falls that involve ‘slumping’ tend to happen in awkward places, in doorways, in front of the chair or by the side of a toilet.

3 Knowing the weight of someone is critical to equipment use - my mother-in-law is 25.5 stone and therefore above some equipment weight limits. 4 Prescribing equipment that allows ease of use in confined spaces is essential to support someone up and off the floor. 5 Equipment should enable use even when the fallen person is

not in an anatomically perfect prone position.

6 The ability to complete a side transfer from lifting equipment is key to non-ambulant transfers Kit that can be kicked out of the way without impacting the use of that equipment in the future to concentrate on the patient is critical.

7 The ease of assembly is important, however what is more important is the disassembly as the carer/paramedic needs to concentrate on the fallen person, not on how to get the equipment back in its carrying bag. 8 Following the initial intervention of getting someone up and off the floor, what are we doing to support that person going forward to rebuild strength and confidence? As professionals, we really need to critique the equipment we prescribe, its features and benefits, where and how it can be used. Getting someone off the floor is only one part of the intervention; we should be providing rehab following the fall to improve function, confidence and well-being.

...The situation really made me reflect, both personally and professionally -magazine.co.uk

LIFE HACK FOR EATING DISORDER RECOVERY As RCOT encouraged OTs to share their life hacks over OT week, PhD student and OT working in CAMHS Esther Dark considers this theme in relation to people in eating disorder recovery

he demand for healthcare services, particularly for eating disorders, is high. Data shows that despite treatment time standards for children and young people’s specialist eating disorder services, a considerable number still experience significant delays (NHS England, 2022). These delays can result in individuals becoming more unwell and impede recovery (Hamilton et al., 2022). Even with specialist treatment, evidence-based treatments do not yield consistently good outcomes (Byrne et al., 2017). 12

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Occupational therapists support individuals with performance and participation difficulties. In eating disorder settings, they focus on an individual’s strengths and promote choice and independence, so individuals become their own occupational therapists (Cowan and Sørlie, 2021). They offer a unique lens in the treatment of eating disorders, focusing on practical support in the here and now, and fostering occupations and activities which are meaningful and contribute to long-term

recovery (Gardiner and Brown, 2010; Biddiscombe et al., 2018). Occupational therapy seeks to implement individualised strategies and support so that change is meaningful, and implemented into an individual’s day-to-day routines. Therefore, in a climate of high referrals and need, with calls for novel and creative approaches, (Touyz and Hay, 2022) occupational therapy can be key in supporting recovery in the long term. Occupational Therapy Week is a national annual event which seeks to promote occupational therapy. This year’s theme is ‘Lift Up Your Everyday’. Although occupational therapy is an essential part of the multidisciplinary team in the field of eating disorders, they are often overlooked in favour of more

established therapies. However, individuals in treatment often seek support to address the practical nature of recovery, such as preparing a meal, or supporting role development and establishing new occupations, which occupational therapists are skilled at supporting (Lock and Pepin, 2019). Recovery is more than physical restoration. It includes psychosocial domains, fostering hope and social connection (Clark and Nayar, 2012). These are goals that occupational therapy also strives towards.

When I attempted to create a life hack for eating disorder recovery and reflected upon this, my efforts seemed superficial and incompatible with the realities of recovery. Often, recovery from an eating disorder is gradual, and requires hard work; it is messy and complex and is definitely not always easy. Recovery is also determined by individuals themselves, outside of medical markers such as weight and eating disorder behaviours, but on finding hope, connection, and engagement in new activities and occupations.

For this year’s OT week, the Royal College of Occupational Therapists asked its members to create ‘OT Life Hacks’. These are referred to as small actions that someone can do to overcome challenges which prevent them from doing the things they need and want to do. These life hacks are designed to provide high impact for a low effort, have evidence, and be fun, easy, and accessible.

Occupational therapists acknowledge this and take a holistic approach. They work alongside, collaboratively supporting individuals to gain insight into why they do what they do (Orchard, 2003). Client-centred practice is not so much about occupational therapists enabling occupations which are considered ‘healthy’ or right, but rather it is respecting an individual’s own knowledge and experience of

recovery (Whalley-Hammell, 2015). Therefore, my life hack for eating disorder recovery is mindful ‘stock taking’. It is not a promise that things will be stress-free, but it offers the opportunity to step back, to reevaluate and to focus on what is in front of you, and through this, ‘lift up your everyday’. In a few simple words, this is my life hack: “Feeling concerned with tomorrow? Anxious about yesterday? Overwhelmed by what is around you right now? Take a breath. Focus on the present moment, and what is in front of you. Stop trying, stop doing, just be.” Life hacks are designed to shorten time and make daily activities more efficient. This particular example may not eliminate or shortcut the pain of eating disorder recovery, but it can create meaning, acknowledge one’s inner strengths, and refocus priorities. Follow Esther on Twitter at @EstherDark3.

Feeling concerned with tomorrow? Anxious about yesterday? Overwhelmed by what is around you right now? Take a breath. Focus on the present moment, and what is in front of you.

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FUTURE FRONTLINE Discover more about the multidisciplinary learnings offered through this not-forprofit community interest company that is bringing allied health professionals together

uture Frontline was founded in August 2020, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, by two medical students Natasha Binnie and Nikki Kerdegari. Future Frontline is a not-for-profit community interest company supported by the Healthcare Leadership Academy with the aim of inspiring and supporting today’s and tomorrow’s NHS workers. After only two years, Future Frontline has over 7,000 followers across a variety

of social media platforms including Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook and its work supports thousands of students and professionals.

Presently, Future Frontline is composed of 35 healthcare students and professionals across the United Kingdom; consisting of students from nineteen universities as well as professionals from over six different NHS Trusts. The professions represented include occupational therapy, nursing, medicine, dental hygiene and therapy, physician associates, podiatry, nursing, paramedicine, dietetics and speech and language therapy. The organisation looks forward to representing more professions in the future. Future Frontline aims to raise awareness of the multitude of healthcare roles within the NHS, widen the participation of people in healthcare degrees and professions,

support current healthcare students and qualified professionals, and provide career advice for those in or pursuing healthcare roles. To achieve these aims, Future Frontline runs a variety of free initiatives including multidisciplinary casebased webinars, work experience webinars, interprofessional webinars to support students and professionals, and publishes informative social media content and website articles. On 25 September, Future Frontline hosted our latest virtual multidisciplinary webinar on Motor Neurone Disease (MND). MND is an uncommon condition that affects the brain and nerves, causing weakness, slurred speech, swallowing difficulties, weakened grip and muscle cramps and twitches, as well as weight loss and behavioural changes. MND primarily affects individuals in their 60s and

Future Frontline runs a variety of free initiatives including multidisciplinary casebased webinars, work experience webinars, interprofessional webinars www.

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70s, but may impact adults of any age, according to the National Health Service (2021). The multidisciplinary event was attended by over 50 participants. In this webinar, the Future Frontline team, in partnership with guest speakers, highlighted the lived experiences of those with MND. In addition, through presentations by a number of healthcare students and professionals, this webinar identified how interprofessional teamwork can support patients with MND and their caregivers to manage the condition to ensure quality of life is maintained throughout its progression. Seven different teams provided insight into their role in supporting people with MND, including: dieticians, doctors, dental workers, nurses, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and speech and language therapists. Through their involvement in this webinar, the Future Frontline occupational therapy professionals and students emphasised the important role of occupational therapy in the care of individuals with MND. The presentation emphasised the value of occupational therapists in the maintenance of enjoyable social and leisure activities, home environment

modification, fatigue and posture management, specialist seating, the provision of adaptive equipment, as well as psychological support strategies. One of the most unique roles of occupational therapists in MND care is fatigue management and energy conservation techniques. People with MND typically experience an increased level of fatigue which may result in reduced quality of life. This fatigue is not often cured by rest and this can cause decreased functional

ability, diminished motivation and psychological symptoms as well. One participant commented: “[it is] fantastic to see the variety of areas [in which occupational therapists work] as I did not know that OTs [held such diverse roles]… [acquiring] general knowledge on how they function as a profession and what they bring to the wider healthcare team was really useful”. The webinar also increased average confidence ratings by two points on a five-point Likert scale.

MULTIDISCIPLINARY SUPPORT Similarly, multidisciplinary health professionals also presented their role in the care of patients with MND. Through multidisciplinary teams, occupational therapists work collaboratively to support patients with MND in coping with their condition.

are provided with handson experiences to learn that multidisciplinary teams enable practitioners and other health and social care professionals to collaborate successfully in order to support and advocate for patient health and wellbeing.

This is true for most clinical conditions experienced by patients and individuals. Through multidisciplinary workshops, Future Frontline helps healthcare students and professionals identify how they can work together to better support patients with a variety of lived experiences and medical conditions. Attendees

This webinar and other multidisciplinary webinars hosted by Future Frontline are also incredible learning opportunities for the speakers and team members involved. For students, these webinars are an opportunity to learn about the power and contribution of occupational therapy to multidisciplinary discussions and allow students to gain confidence engaging in diverse environments. For professionals at the beginning of their occupational therapy career, these webinars provide opportunities to learn about occupational therapy in diverse settings and provide a mentorship opportunity as well. Future Frontline is always searching for new occupational therapists to share their experiences in such multidisciplinary webinars and urge anyone who may be interested in dispensing their knowledge to reach out today. This article was authored by Future Frontline OT Officers Melissa Chieza and Shir Grunebaum, and CEOs of Future Frontline Natasha Binnie and Nikki Kerdegari. Find out more at: FutureFrontline.co.uk Instagram: @future_frontline Twitter: @futurefrontline

Join us on Stand D63 at The OT Show We are so excited to be partnering with The OT Show again for 2022 to celebrate the 10th year this incredible event has been running.

e can’t wait to spend two days on stand D63 meeting and talking to OTs from all different areas of practice. We have some great plans for the show and we hope you will join us on the stand to have some fun, take some selfies, get your I Love OT tote bag and share your thoughts on the profession with us!

THE OT MAGAZINE 50TH ISSUE! Our Jan/Feb 2023 issue will be the 50th issue of The OT Magazine, and we want to celebrate this with you. The 50th issue will be celebrating the profession, and recognising the incredible work that OTs across the UK are doing every day, so we want to hear from you at the show. Join us on the stand to tell us about your role, what you love about occupational therapy and why you became an OT so we can share your inspiration with other OTs. If you would like to get in touch to contribute to our 50th issue please email Ros@2APublishing.co.uk. 18

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GET YOUR I LOVE OT TOTE BAG! As always, we will have the coveted I Love OT tote bags to give away to anyone who signs up for a subscription at the show! These bags are in high demand so make sure you get your hands on one before they are all gone! It only costs £9.99 for a one-year subscription or £17.99 for two years, and the magazine is CPDaccredited. You can subscribe at: ot-magazine.co.uk/subscribe.

TAKE A SELFIE AND WIN! If you are feeling lucky, you should swing by our stand to take a quick selfie with your OT friends in our selfie frame to be in with the chance of winning a £50 Amazon voucher! All we need you to do to enter is to take a selfie, post it to Instagram, tag @TheOTMagazine and follow us! The winner will be picked on Mon 28 November 2022!

FOLLOW US If you want to keep up to date with all the action in the run-up to The OT Show, enter exclusive competitions, learn from your fellow OTs and connect with your peers, don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. We can’t wait to see you at The OT Show on 23-24 November at the NEC, Birmingham!

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

ACTICHECK WRISTBAND

This simple to use, life-saving wristband offers uninterrupted protection. It is waterproof with a one-year battery life, making it a reliable safety measure all year long. A squeeze of the wristband calls for help and it also monitors for severe falls so even if the wearer is unable to raise an alert, help is at hand. 0345 257 509 | Acticheck.com 2

AAT’S UNIVERSAL BACK

This Universal Back fits onto AAT’s stairclimber to enable safe, precise postural correction and support for any user. It is simple to adapt to the client’s needs and means that this one combination will address a myriad of scenarios, offering best value and fast, safe risk management for stair transfer. Find out more, and book your free, no obligation assessment at AATGB. com/s-max/#section-785-78. 01978 821875 | AATGB.com

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3 Visit stand C40 at The OT Show

RISE AND FALL SHOWER TROLLEY

Care and Independence’s Rise and Fall Shower Trolley makes for easier washing and changing. Top sideways-tilt function provides superb positioning and the padded dropdown sides add additional safety. Plus, with powered functionality and 10 size options, this is a great bathing solution for those less able. 033 012 80808 CareAndIndependence.com

EPILEPSY SEIZURE MOVEMENT DETECTION

Discover the range of Medpage’s top selling alarms. With 30 years of experience manufacturing in their UK factory, the MP5-UT model, with superior movement detection sensor, is equipped with simplistic sensor sensitivity adjustment and a movement delay algorithm to reduce false positives. There is no better solution for detecting Tonic/ Clonic seizure movement and is priced at £170.00 + VAT.

Visit stand H62 at The OT Show

EasylinkUK.co.uk 5

ROPOX HEIGHTADJUSTABLE BATHTUB

The height-adjustable bathtub from Ropox offers a superb cost-effective bathing solution for people that are unable to shower. Available in three sizes; 160x50cm, 170x75cm and 180x80cm with a depth of 40cm, the bathtub is made of white fibre reinforced acrylic, has a maximum user weight of 250kg and is suitable for all ages. Ropox.co.uk

Visit stand J60 at The OT Show

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ELECTRIC HEATED PONCHO

This toasty heated poncho could be the perfect companion as the cold weather sets in. If you have clients who feel the cold acutely and struggle to keep warm, this poncho will make light work of keeping them snug. The soft flannel fleece has fasteners to keep it in place and it has nine heat settings and nine time settings.

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BAMBOO BATH TRAY

This natural bamboo bath tray is a great addition to a soak in the tub for bathers looking to relax. It will sit right across the bath and safely house everything they could possibly need while relaxing in the tub. Designed with holding sections for a tablet, phone, book, candle and even a glass of wine. Amazon.co.uk 8

HIGH VISION TABLE LAMP

This flexible, table top lamp uses daylight bulbs to create optimal, natural light for reading. It is particularly useful for anyone living with a visual impairment as the natural light helps to reduce the risk of headaches and eye strain. The flexible arm allows it to be moved and angled in any direction needed to ensure reading is comfortable.

0345 121 8111 | HealthcarePro.co.uk

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AKW Rise & Fall Bidet The clinical features and beneﬁts of the AKW Rise & Fall Bidet help to promote dignity and independence for clients with a range of requirements.

Scan this QR code to see a video of Kate Sheehan, Director of The OT Service, expertly demonstrate the use of the AKW Rise & Fall Bidet.

If you would like to discuss this product with your local AKW representative call 01905 823298, email marketing@akw-ltd.co.uk or visit www.akw-ltd.co.uk/contact

n i y a d A . es n o J o J rking en wo

be er 15 es has n o for ov J r e Jo g a se an try Ca ase m n c u a o c s t a es in with W pecialising years s t n with a geme living s t n Mana clie . g with injury workin brain

What is your role and how long have you been in it? I am a BABICM advanced case manager and have worked with Westcountry Case Management (WCM) since 2005. My primary specialism is brain injury; I have experience of working with individuals with visual impairment, maxillo facial injuries, complex orthopaedic injuries, amputation and psychological trauma. I also mentor other case managers at WCM.

Describe a typical day... I start by 7.30am so I can catch up on admin without fear of being interrupted. I usually have an agenda for the day which may involve client-related visits, Zoom or telephone calls with clients or relatives, or multi-disciplinary meetings. I am constantly re-prioritising my workload and plans for the day often need to change at short notice in response to more pressing demands. Sometimes the only way to cope is to put my phone on silent in order to respond to emails or write reports, otherwise a report can take several weeks to complete! I may be required to attend meetings or case conferences with the client’s litigation team to provide an update

. f o e f i l e th

Each month ..

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

s e n o J o J

regarding the client’s progress and case management plan. This can sometimes be akin to giving evidence in court and can be a bit daunting, but I try to remember that I know the client as well as any professional working with them. I try to finish my day by walking my dog so that I have cleared my head before collecting my daughter from the school bus. I often need to finish off notes or emails and gather my thoughts for the next working day before powering off for the evening.

What is the hardest thing about your role? Safeguarding our clients can be the biggest challenge for a case manager along with risk management. We have a duty to protect some of the most vulnerable members of our society whilst acknowledging an individual’s rights to exercise their own choices and at times, allow them to make “unwise decisions”. It can be a minefield. As the case manager, you are ultimately responsible for the support and rehabilitation you have put in place. Lawyers and medical experts frequently scrutinise our records and may challenge our decisions and question our clinical judgement. We have to evidence that our clinical

skills are beyond reproach and that our clinical reasoning is sound. Demands can be unrealistic at times and the “to do” list is never-ending. It is of utmost importance to have the back-up and support of a strong cohesive team, which is exactly what we have at WCM.

What is the most enjoyable thing about your role? I love the flexibility my work gives me and allows me to be creative, reactive and dynamic. Every day is different and I am never bored! I am rarely constrained by unreasonable budgets and bureaucracy, and I feel privileged to be part of an individual’s recovery and am proud to have worked with some of my clients for over 13 years. Find out more about case manager roles at WestCountryCaseManagement.co.uk.

We have a duty to protect some of the most vulnerable members of our society 25

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A FIT THAT FITS Finding clothes that are accessible and suit a person’s style can be difficult, but as the fashion industry begins to acknowledge disabled, chronically ill and neurodiverse people, it’s beginning to look like this might improve of fashion and lifestyle items to underrepresented groups by 2025. The collection sees them introduce clothing for people living with a wide range of impairments, including limited mobility, limited dexterity, and sensory sensitivity; there are items designed for wheelchair users, items that accommodate prosthetics and bandages, and sensory-friendly fabrics. They have also designed clothing for disabled children’s caregivers, showing just how extensive the research they undertook to understand the needs of disabled customers before launching the collections. Alongside this, they’ve begun stocking Tommy Hilfiger Adaptive, one of the first luxury designer brands to create an adaptive clothing range - although it must be said, in a time where disabled people are some of the hardest hit by the cost of living crisis, this may not be as accessible as it needs to be. Adaptive fashion should be just that - adaptive and fashionable, but it should also be available to all who need it. Here’s some adaptive brands you might be able to recommend to clients or patients who need them:

HEWINSON

inding clothes that suit your needs and your style can be difficult, but for disabled, chronically ill, and neurodiverse people it can be almost impossible. Finding clothing which sits at the intersection of form and function can be extremely hard, especially when so few large brands or retailers create - let alone carry - clothing that fits the needs of, for example, someone who experiences sensory sensitivity with certain fabrics, or a

wheelchair user who needs their trousers to fit in a very specific way. In October, fashion and lifestyle platform Zalando launched an adaptive fashion collection across its brands in some of their European markets, which include Zign, Pier One, Anna Field, Yourturn and Even&Odd. The collection consisted of over 140 styles for men and women, including footwear, in an effort to reach its goal of offering an inclusive experience and assortment

This UK-based clothing company produces jeans and jogging bottoms that are designed with the specific needs of wheelchair users in mind. Available in an assortment of washes and sizes, the jeans feature high backs, elasticated waists, pockets designed so that they don’t lose their contents when the wearer sits down, reinforced belt loops that allow them to be pulled on with ease, flat seams to reduce the chance of sores, and an extra-long zip. The jeans are £65, while their trackies are £52. Hewinson.com

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OPTIVUS

MODIBODY

Optivus challenges the idea that accessible clothes need to pick style over function; this streetwearinspired brand creates fashionable clothing with accessibility in mind, offering wardrobe staples that wouldn’t be out of place on ASOS. Their statement flannels are available with velcro or snap fasteners, and their OG jeans are designed for wheelchair users, sporting a design that makes toileting and changing easier and is catheter friendly without compromising on style.

This Australian brand creates leakproof underwear that reduces the need to use disposable pads, liners and tampons during the wearer’s period. Their adaptive Boyleg range are perfect for wearing overnight, and is suitable for a heavy flow or light to moderate bladder leaks. The underwear can be put on without having to pull it up from the feet thanks to the hook and loop fastenings on both sides at the hips, which makes them ideal for people living with limited mobility.

Optivus.com

Modibodi.co.uk

WHITE ROSE White Rose has been creating ostomate-friendly clothing for over 30 years with the help and feedback of their loyal customers. They offer swimwear and underwear for men and women, and have created a line of fashionable skinny jeans and leggings that are super fashionable as well as functional. All of their clothing features an internal pocket that supports the wearer’s stoma bag while preventing it from sitting on the skin and causing irritation or discomfort.

UNHIDDEN Unhidden make clothes for every body, and their website allows customers to make specific alterations to each item they buy, further emphasising that claim. Their clothing is perfect for work or semi-formal wear, designed to be put on with ease, and allowing space for bloating and sitting down, offering invisible zips and concealed openings. As each piece is individually designed based on the wearer’s needs, they’re also happy to make any size of clothing needed, making it even more accessible. UnhiddenClothing.com

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WhiteRoseCollection.com

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WelcoMe to Access

Discover WelcoMe, a system that allows disabled people to notify venues of their access needs prior to their arrival, ensuring that their specific accessibility needs are catered for in a timely manner, reducing anxiety and increasing the confidence of the user. Gavin Neate is the creator of WelcoMe and he explains how this app can transform the lives of users

ike walked through the door back out onto the street, paused and turned back to me: “Gavin, could you do me a favour please?” I took a step forward and he leaned into me, obviously wishing to keep what he was going to say confidential. “Could you pop back in and find out the name of the person I was talking to, lad? I’m pretty sure they wear a name badge but if you could find out who they are it would be really helpful.” Mike instructed his guide dog to sit, rested the harness handle on its back and continued: “It’s just that I’ve been coming here for five years, and they know who I am and know I’m blind, but always presume I know who I’m speaking to. I’m now too embarrassed to ask.” I headed back into the Post Office, introduce myself to Derek, who was wearing a name badge, and explained that I am just going over some new routes with Mike and his new guide dog. I returned to Mike, let him know Derek’s name and we went on our way. Mike’s experience is by no means unique and is the tip of the iceberg when it comes to how staff members interact with disabled people in general.

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Not introducing yourself to a blind person, being unaware of a bright light behind you when talking to a person who lip reads, or talking to the person standing next to the wheelchair user instead of the person themselves are all mistakes which can easily be avoided, but seldom are.

monumental level of information retention and its recall, impossible to achieve with even the very best training environments. Add to this that the vast majority of disabled people are living with “hidden” conditions and it is unreasonable to expect staff members to “get it right” every time.

As a mobility instructor my job was to support my clients through these challenges, but this experience and others like it led me to think more about the disability awareness training staff members received, whether it was as effective as it needed to be and ultimately whether it could be improved.

As a mobility instructor working for Guide Dogs for the Blind I would address this at the moment of, or after an interaction, and where possible I would do my best to meet with staff ahead of a visit and carry out awareness training. I was very aware that this was far from efficient or considering a high turnover of staff in many businesses, far from

Traditional staff training relies on a

Its use in health services, government, hospitality, retail, transport, leisure and tourism is fundamentally changing the relationship between service teams and their disabled visitors. It is empowering disabled people

a long-term solution, but what if I could automate this process, how much better could I make it? What if instead of providing the training myself I was able to empower my clients to do this themselves? It wasn’t until 2018 that my company launched WelcoMe, but the answer had initially presented itself in 2006 when one of my clients had pulled out a mobile phone and, through their use of Apple’s Voice Over, interacted with it. If I could connect each disabled person’s mobile phone to the venue they were visiting, a pre-populated disability profile could trigger training prior to a visit and empower the disabled person to take control of the level of service they required. In addition, I could provide the tool for use by other professionals who could introduce the service to their clients or even set up profiles on their behalf and use the tool to enable them to take a step back from any interaction. Now, in 2022 WelcoMe is growing and available in an increasing number of venues across the UK and the Republic of Ireland. Its use in health services, government, hospitality, retail, transport, leisure and tourism is fundamentally changing the relationship between service teams and their disabled visitors. It is empowering disabled people to actively take control of each interaction and creating an environment where disability professionals can focus on increasing the independence and confidence of their clients.

HOW CAN OTS ASSIST?

We would encourage OTs and other professionals to incorporate WelcoMe into their mobility training and associated services, however we are also looking to develop the platform to be used in proxy where a client is unable to access technology themselves. If you would like to be involved in this development or learn more about WelcoMe please check out wel-co. me and get in touch with Gavin at wel-co.me/gavin.

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SINGING FOR HEALTH OT Lisa Strong shares her experience of using singing and drumming in a therapeutic way

am a senior OT working in the NHS within the community rehab team where I live in Essex on the Sunshine Coast. I love the dynamic, problem-solving aspect of my work and I have always enjoyed working with people, and getting to know, real people’s stories finding out what is important to them. I’ve dipped into two role-emerging jobs since qualifying; one on a social farm called Wellies-On CIC in Abberton, and another as an OT in Clacton Leisure Centre with Sports 32

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for Confidence. I love variety and jobs that push the boundaries of our profession. I had many other jobs before I found OT. I never had a clue what I wanted to do at school; I had many interests and never wanted to commit to just one of those. It seemed impossible to choose from all the exciting roles on the list, so I travelled a bit, had my family, worked in pubs, as a cleaner, in shops and then started working in care. I loved it, but I wanted more and found

myself trying to engage the older people I cared for with music and meaningful activity - despite there not being much time for that within a carer’s role. Then, one day someone mentioned OT, and as they described it I instantly knew that was what I was! I eventually got my place at Essex University and began studying as a mature student with four young children. It was very challenging, but it was all worth it as I feel so much job satisfaction now. Singing is another passion of mine, which has been with me since I was young. As a teen, I struggled with fitting in and I had a stammer which didn’t help. I found that

when I sang the stammer was gone and I felt free, so I pursued music and became a singer. I still sing professionally and love it. When I qualified as an OT I decided to link my two passions and started a community choir. I formed The Walton Feel Good Choir in 2018 as a non-profit group that enables and includes everyone through singing. It’s a joy to stand in front of my choir family and hear them figure out a challenging harmony or step up to sing a solo when they’ve been hiding at the back for a month. I’m now pursuing my Master’s in Vocal Pedagogy through the Voice Study Centre, specialising in singing for health. My main focus throughout my Master’s has been to bring OT to the forefront of the singing for health movement because I have experienced how OT can bridge arts and health so seamlessly. Currently, I am working on a framework using Wilcocks seminal Occupational Perspective of Health as a template to pin the growing evidence base for singing for health. I am hoping this will help health professionals to understand and use community singing more within practice. I have enjoyed delving deep into occupational science and hope to be able to provide some interactive training for OT students to embed this practice one day. I never saw myself as an academic, but have now spoken at a conference and was recently invited on the Singing for Health Network’s new podcast series. I’ll be talking all about OT and how its unique aspect is ideally placed to link singing and health and also demonstrate a fun warm-up I like to use with my choir.

DRUM ROLL PLEASE The success of the choir has motivated me to branch out and I am now the director of Feel Good Drumming CIC. This group has the same ethos of inclusivity and health promotion and uses rhythm to build community and improve health. I received funding from Active Essex to buy the drums in 2019, which was

a first for them because drumming is not a sport! I evidenced the physical benefits of drumming within my bid and recently have been back to present a session with the funders, they agreed that you don’t have to wear a tracksuit to get active. Throughout COVID, the choir and drumming had to move outdoors. My family helped me to drag all my drums to the beach and this

started our summer of drumming. This summer we had a really successful six sessions of beach drumming, playing to the backdrop of the ocean, seagull sounds, and holidaymakers wondering what we were up to. Singing and drumming both seem to remove the barriers of disability, especially with an OT leading and making subtle adjustments and adaptations so that everyone can participate. When we sing and drum together everyone is equal, we support each other, we laugh, we feel like we belong and everyone comes away feeling good.

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Taking stock of “quick fix” stair adaptations to manage risk Stairs - client inability to execute this basic ADL is a major factor in limiting their ability to be discharged from hospital, to continue living safely and independently at home. Thanks to a range of strategies put in place by AAT the stairclimber people, the risk can be overcome within a matter of days and potentially without any need for time-consuming DFG funding! The team has been increased by 50%, meaning a trained assessment manager can be with you and your client to review the most appropriate solution within 10-15 days. Investment in stockholding means that the stairclimber itself can be delivered to your client within three working days of receipt of

order. Furthermore, with the thousands of machines already sold over the past 15 years, there may even be one to hand in stores, enabling faster provision for less than £1000. “Dealing with stairs is one of the four most common requirements for adaptations and causes for delay in hospital discharge,” says AAT technical director Gareth Brown. “Utilisation of a stairclimber minimises that risk, without any of the disruption to the household of moving beds downstairs, impeding stair access for others etc, thereby giving clients a safe, easy-to-use option to access all levels of their home, and beyond into the garden or wider community, in almost all stair scenarios.”

Automatic Pill Dispensers and Medication Reminders 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:

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Find out more, and book your free, no obligation assessment: aatgb.com/mobility-stairclimbers or call 01978 821875, email sales@aatgb.com.

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

MIMI BOOT

Mimi is specially designed for swollen feet and ankles, this clever boot not only delivers on style but on practicality and comfort too. Simply adjust the laces to the desired fit then slip them on and off with ease using the twin zip fastenings on either side. Visit Cosyfeet.com/Mimi to find out more. 01458 447275 | Cosyfeet.com 2

ROLLZ MOTION RHYTHM ROLLATOR

Discover the Parkinson’s rollator that helps with staying active and independent. The Rollz Motion Rhythm rollator has been developed for people with a disrupted gait pattern or who suffer from freezing episodes. It encourages the start of a rhythmic gait pattern with the help of laser, sound and vibration cues. 0333 207 2080 | RollzMobility.co.uk

Visit stand F10 at The OT Show

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THE ARK TAMO™ KEY SAFE

The ark Tamo™ is the world’s most secure push-button key safe. With large, easy-press buttons and patented illumination module lighting on both the keypad and the internal vault, homecare can continue day and night. The multipush keypad means each button can be used up to four times creating 9.7 million code combinations. We’ve created our best key safe, ever.

0330 363 0303 | KeySafe.co.uk 4

PERSONALISED WALKING STICKS

Cool Crutches is a creative and innovative company that specialises in producing walking aids with a touch of flare. The walking sticks are available in a range of colours and patterns, but they also offer a personalisation service where they can customise walking aids to the user’s own personal taste. 01451 870 884 | CoolCrutches.com 5

ERGO LITE 2

The Ergo Lite 2 is an ultralight and sturdy wheelchair that is designed to be easily lifted and transported, reducing the risk of carers injuring themselves when lifting. The rear wheels and footrests are detachable reducing the weight to just 6kg. The S-Ergo Seating system promotes pressure relief and the wheelchair folds easily for storage and transportation.

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KarmaMobility.co.uk

5 Visit stand C32 at The OT Show

JELLY DROPS

These award-winning hydration sweets are made of 95% water, they are sugar free, vegan-friendly and they have added electrolytes in them too. Ideal for patients living with dementia who are struggling to keep hydrated, these sweets offer an alternative way to encourage hydration through a tasty snack. JellyDrops.com 7

HEWINSON JEANS

These jeans are designed specifically for wheelchair users, taking into consideration comfort, function and style. They have easy-fastening zips, high rise backs for a seated position, no rear pockets, flat seams, reinforced belt loops for easy pullon, and elasticated waists for true comfort. They are the perfect pair for any wheelchair user.

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GLIDEBOARD

This ultra-lightweight transfer board has a unique design to increase stability for wheelchair users transferring from or to their chair. The sliding seat panel glides easily along the board easily allowing users a smooth transition with less friction. It is strong and durable and comes in a range of colours to choose from too. Shop.DisabilityHorizons.com

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THE OT SHOW Will you be attending the biggest OT event of the year?

he OT Show returns on 23 - 24 November and it looks like it will be one of the best yet. However, before what will be the 10th event since it’s conception, it’s important to look back on what makes The OT Show so important in the professional calendar, and why this year will be such a success. In 2012, the idea to develop an event that was free for occupational therapists to attend, whilst delivering high quality CPD was born. This led to the inaugural event in 2013 and the rest is history!

...designed and delivered by occupational therapists, for occupational therapists 38

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Over the 10 events the structure has remained the same, but the content on offer has developed to meet the needs of therapists. Clinical streams such as Neurology, Mental Health and Housing have been a constant, though the initial Children, Young People and Families section has become Paediatrics, and the Physical and Innovation sections have been removed completely and replaced with Contemporary Practice, Moving and Handling and Affinity Groups, to reflect what the profession needs at any given time.

CONFERENCE PROGRAMME The conference programme is indeed designed and delivered by occupational therapists, for occupational therapists. A great example of this is the introduction of Contemporary Practice. We felt there should be an expectation that all sessions in the programme were innovative, giving delegates at least one take away message or practical experience to reflect on and

positively impact their service delivery, and attributing a stream to innovation created a perception that other sessions were less so. Instead, and as a result of the rapidly changing health and social care landscape, Contemporary Practice provides the opportunity to cover new areas of work and application of unique skills for occupational therapists, with or without the protected title. The programme this year therefore includes sessions on delivery of occupational therapy led occupational health services, strategic management, breaking down barriers, working in the police force, and working with Microsoft to design adapted controllers for games consoles. Although a very important part of The OT Show, the conference programme is not the only reason to attend. It is the dedication of the exhibitors and their commitment to occupational therapists and their clients’ outcomes, that allow the event to be free to attend, and provides a unique opportunity to engage in dynamic, collaborative problem solving or relationship building on-site. Many of these exhibitors now use The OT Show to showcase newly developed products or services, such is the reach that the event now has. Keeping up to date with what’s available on the market is vital to ensure that clinical recommendations are evidence-based, and to maximise the potential and health and wellbeing of clients.

WHY ATTEND? The last big reason for you to attend The OT Show, and this year in particular, is that it gives therapists the opportunities to network, reconnect with each other and share experiences, both positive and challenging. We are all acutely aware of the challenges over the last two years, many of which still remain both on a personal level and professionally; but at a time when many organisations continue to offer and plan virtual events or conferences it’s important to acknowledge the desire for contact with one another. Occupational therapists in particular are social, creative, and dynamic individuals, who have missed being able to engage in their own meaningful activities, which often includes physical events such as The OT Show. After the success of last years’ first physical event following 2020’s online event, 2022 looks set to be another great success. Great CPD delivered by truly expert clinicians, networking, collaboration, and innovation all with the joint aim of improving outcomes for clients; it doesn’t get much better than that! Register now for your free ticket at TheOTShow.com.

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F OR MOR E I N F OR M AT ION

FRED MILL SIGNATURE COMMODE CHAIR Discover the new commode on the block, embracing style with function

he recommendation of adaptations and equipment for people’s homes can be a necessary but delicate subject. Getting older naturally brings many different challenges for people, and as OTs it is your place to advise on the best adaptations to ensure the home remains as accessible as possible or to recommend products that will help maintain mobility and confidence in a safe environment. However, there can be resistance to these products and changes. For many, the discussion of adding equipment to their home conjures up images of clinical looking items cluttering up their cosy living room, or their bedroom turning into a hospital room. It can be daunting and isolating, and it can have a

detrimental effect on a person’s health when they don’t feel comfortable in their home. The stigma around mobility products is well documented, but it is a stigma being tackled by some organisations out there. Fred Mill is one of those organisations.

The Signature Commode Chair is made from solid oak wood and features an engineered leather cushion that is waterproof and easily wiped clean. It is available in different sizes to accommodate different transfer heights, and it also comes in a variety of different colours. The smooth lines of the chair are expertly designed and the chair is built to last, it would easily complement most living rooms or bedrooms as it is attractive and discreet. Having a chair like this on display allows users to still have guests around without feeling self-conscious and it maintains the sanctuary of the home for all who live there. The impact that a simple consideration like this can have on a person’s wellbeing and mental health is invaluable. Kate Sheehan, director of The OT Service, worked closely with the team at Fred Mill throughout the design process, and she shared her thoughts on the commode: “I am always inspired and willing to work with people who want to challenge the design of existing disability products. Fred and his team developed their commode to look like a beautiful piece of Italian furniture, a piece that most of us would be willing to have in our home and yet also meet the functional needs of an individual. We need a design revolution and Fred is at the forefront of doing and achieving this goal.” To find out more visit: FredMill.com.

Recognising the resistance that many people have to the medical appearance of many of the products on the market, Fred Mill began a mission to create products that are both functional and stylish. They have just launched the Signature Commode Chair and it is unlike any commode that you will have come across before. They have worked closely with occupational therapists throughout the design process to ensure that all aspects of the commode chair’s function were considered, so you can be assured that this is not a case of style over substance.

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A Positive Hospital to Home Transition This Festive Season Maia Fergus-O’Grady, registered dietitian at Wiltshire Farm Foods, explores the importance of meal preparation and nutrition for those returning home from hospital

he hospital to home journey can be a daunting process for many – individuals are often still on the road to recovery, potentially having to take various 42

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medications or complete certain exercises. This transition may be more overwhelming for those living alone; moving from loud hospital wards surrounded by healthcare

professionals and returning to a quiet home with sole responsibility for their own rehabilitation. Some may have returned with a new requirement of carers, which, for those that were previously independent, can be tough to process and accept. An individual’s mental health can be substantially impacted during this period, which can then significantly affect their

overall recovery. For those returning home during the festive period with a newly diagnosed swallowing difficulty (also known as dysphagia), this process becomes all the more challenging. Individuals may not be familiar with making meals in alignment with International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) guidelines, or the methods of testing them to ensure they are safe for consumption. For many, this season is a time to come together with loved ones, with celebrations typically revolving around eating, drinking, and socialising with friends and family. Meals during this time are often plentiful, beautifully presented, and tastier than ever, with many of us overindulging on the various delicacies available. The festive season can, however, be segregating for those with swallowing difficulties – individuals may be more prone to isolate themselves from social occasions, due to feelings of embarrassment or grief when it comes to eating. This can, in turn, have a massive impact on both their dietary intake and quality of life. Some service users may try blending

foods at home, but attempting to create meals that are tasty, visually appealing, as well as safe and nutritious, can be a real technical challenge, often requiring pieces of specialist equipment such as blenders and piping bags. Dysphagia is often the consequence of another illness, such as throat cancers, Parkinson’s, or dementia; these service users must effectively manage their primary health condition, but also adjust to the complexities of requiring a texturemodified (TM) diet. In many cases, the ideal solution to mealtimes during this season is a readily prepared TM dish. These meals are commonly moulded to resemble their respective food components, helping service users identify the dish in front of them, whilst enhancing their visual appeal – this in turn can increase consumption. Meals are likely to be assessed by a dietitian to ensure each dish is as nutritious as possible and developed with specialist equipment to align with IDDSI guidance. These factors, in combination, bring the dignity back into dining, and help to create a more positive mealtime experience – something that, during the winter holidays, is perhaps even

more vital. Readily prepared TM meals can also encourage social eating; individuals may be more open to socialising and visiting family if they can bring an appetising prepared meal with them, or have it delivered straight to their hosts. Instead of the guest or host needing to spend hours blending down various meal components to the correct texture, a meal with all the trimmings can simply be popped in the oven or the microwave. Food is such an important aspect of the hospital to home transition. It links into nutrition: a key, but occasionally overlooked aspect of the recovery process, but it also ties into dignity, socialising, nostalgia, joy, and comfort. By OTs having an awareness of the complexities and solutions to mealtimes over the festive season, they can be well-equipped to then ensure those individuals with dysphagia on their caseload understand the various ways they can enjoy a nutritious, safe, and delicious meal over the holidays. To find out more about the range of texture modified meals visit the Softer Foods section of wiltshirefarmfoods.com.

To listen to Maia host the latest podcast episode on eating well with dysphagia this festive season, download Dietitian Diaries from wherever you source your podcasts.

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BRILLIANT BIDETS

Bidets are an uncommon sight in UK bathrooms, but they can be a great help in improving or maintaining toileting for people who may experience difficulties

et’s talk toilets. It’s a subject that some people can find embarrassing to discuss, but our toiletry habits can have a profound effect on our life and the ability to maintain our dignity. It can be embarrassing for people to discuss the need for assistance or aids when using the toilet, but in some situations, the intervention of an occupational therapist can provide ways for people to continue using the bathroom in a way that is comfortable to their emotional and health needs. Bidets are quite a rare sight in the UK, but venture to Europe and you’ll find that the mighty bidet

makes its presence known around the continent; in fact, in Italy and Portugal, it’s been the law that bathrooms need to have a bidet since 1975. In Finland and Greece, you’ll likely find a bidet shower in the bathroom. In Japan, you will find brilliantly elaborate super toilets (seriously, they’re called super toilets) that can feature heated seats, botty blow driers, and massage options, among other hi-tech additions. While this might sound a little out there to those of us not well acquainted with the bidet, so many countries across the world see the bidet as a standard addition to the bathroom or washroom,

although they’re not usually as technically advanced as the ones found in Japan and other parts of Asia. There is much speculation as to why Britain hasn’t taken a shine to the bidet, and a 2007 New Yorker article suggests that it might well be a result of the association the British made between French aristocrats and their hedonism; the same article suggests this is why Americans also did not fall in love with the bidet, coming to associate it with brothels after encountering them there on the continent during World War II. Regardless, for some people, the addition of a bidet in their toilet can make a huge difference to

...it’s a complex activity that requires a range of motor and cognitive skills to perform effectively

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achieving their goals when it comes to toileting needs. Occupational therapists will be well aware that while “nipping to the loo” feels like a very simple thing to say, in actuality, it’s a complex activity that requires a range of motor and cognitive skills to perform effectively, as well as an understanding of the environment. Bidets might be considered for people who experience issues with their mobility; people who might find it difficult to reach where they need to wipe due to arthritis, for example, or people who have experienced an injury which has resulted in decreased sensation to their genital areas. Perhaps most pertinent is that the user may be able to operate the bidet without assistance, which is ideal if their privacy when toileting is a concern for them. Bidets are also more sustainable than using toilet roll, as they don’t require the use of paper, which is better for the environment. Occasionally, it’s noted that using bidets can have health benefits, but the scientific data supporting this is limited. The Washington Post quoted UC Berkley professor John Swartzberg as saying in 2021 that “there have been clear anecdotal reports of people with haemorrhoids where the bidet helps,” but there’s little science to support that, or that bidets help stave off urinary tract infections. There are a host of different options for whom a bidet could help them achieve their toileting goals, and they range from inexpensive to high-end products, so meeting requirements for installation and personal goals has become easier as modern bidets become more compact while gaining more features. There are three types of bidet, so to speak: the bidet shower, the standalone bidet, and the addon bidet. Bidet showers are exactly what it says on the tin: a hand-held shower nozzle found beside the toilet that helps clean by spraying water. A standalone bidet requires the user to straddle it (“bidet” is from the French for “pony” for a reason) and it either cleans via a jet of water, or acts as a basin which can be filled up. Add-on bidets attach to the toilet itself, and can be integrated

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or bought separately and attached; these devices produce a jet of water which cleans the anus and genitals, and can have additional features that can further improve the toileting experience, like air dryers which can remove the need for the user to manually dry themselves after

toileting. Bidets can provide an excellent solution to ensure that people can meet their toileting needs and goals, and vitally, can help people maintain their privacy and hygiene in an effective and unobtrusive way.

There are three types of bidet, so to speak: the bidet shower, the standalone bidet, and the add-on bidet

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RETURNING TO WORK AFTER BRAIN INJURY Specialist neuro OT Helen Harrison explores how small OT measures can make a big difference for clients returning to work with a TBI

common assumption made by employers is that people who have suffered traumatic brain injury (TBI) are no longer able to do their jobs. Sometimes this may be the case, particularly if the head injury is severe. But many TBI survivors can thrive in the workplace and be just as productive as their colleagues if the right support is offered. Helen Harrison, a specialist neuro-occupational therapist with LSOT, has seen impressive results in her patients’ rehabilitation when simple tweaks have been made to the work environment. Brain injury can have a devastating impact on a person’s life. Whether sustained through an accident, illness or other health condition, the symptoms are usually the same, ranging from exhaustion, irritability and mood swings to trouble solving problems and memory difficulties. The condition creates havoc and can lead to physical disability, relationship breakdown and depression. This need not be the outcome however. As neuro occupational therapists, LSOT combines training in neurological conditions and OT to provide specialist support that helps TBI survivors learn to live as close to a normal life as possible following their injury. We have seen firsthand just how big a role vocational rehabilitation plays in this.

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TBI AWARENESS AMONG EMPLOYERS While there are supportive employers out there, they are not commonplace. Too often, we encounter unhelpful and rigid behaviour which is usually explained by a lack of knowledge and understanding of brain injury. Managers assume that making reasonable adjustments to a workplace will involve disruption

and cost, yet it is often the smallest change that can have the biggest difference. A person’s occupation doesn’t just give them an ability to earn money and pay the rent, but a sense of identity and agency that boost selfesteem which TBI often destroys. Patients also suffer reduced insight and self-awareness which land them in situations that reinforce their low confidence. In the workplace, they struggle to predict their strengths and weaknesses and are unable to anticipate what they will find difficult.

We have seen first-hand just how big a role vocational rehabilitation plays

BRAIN-FRIENDLY WORK PATTERNS To help people get back to work after a brain injury, we follow a two-pronged approach. The first is to ensure they are aware of their symptoms and limitations and know strategies for self-managing these. Next, we turn to the employer. One recent client returned to work thinking he was fully recovered from the head trauma he’d sustained ten months earlier in a car accident. However, he found that while individually he could manage each task, he was unable to cope with distractions. His fatigue increased which worsened his cognitive abilities and led to him becoming overwhelmed. He eventually signed off work for six weeks. During this period we did twiceweekly sessions with him to unpick what the problems were. It was not a big company, but the managers wanted to help so we discussed with them and human resources the kind of support that would be sustainable for the business. We suggested a new place for his desk at the back of the office away from where customers were. This helped improve his concentration

by minimising distractions, as well as allowing him to take regular, short breaks instead of one long one. He grouped his tasks together to do in one sitting which helped conserve his brain energy. Jumping from one thing to another and multi-tasking was proving a guaranteed way to drain it. After the client had dealt with emails solidly for a set period of time, he then did the same with phone calls. His employer supported him throughout which greatly assisted his recovery. Not long after he returned to work following his sick leave, he was promoted. Another client, whose TBI was also caused by a car crash, found that if he got too tired at work his speech became slightly slurred and eye contact with customers was poor which was giving the impression he was bored when he was not. To tackle this, we brought in a speech and language therapist who helped him find ways to manage his fatigue and speech problems and worked with him to improve his non-verbal communication skills. None of this would have been possible without an empathetic workplace.

BRAIN ENERGY AND MOBILE PHONE BATTERIES By understanding fatigue, both clients were able to monitor it like the energy levels in a mobile phone battery. If they allowed themselves to get to 30%, they’d quickly run out and problems would start. These small measures helped them work effectively. Neuro OT is about doing things differently and helping the individual, as opposed to trying to get them to fit the norm. Perhaps in the post-COVID world of hybrid and flexible work, our clients may find more employment opportunities that suit their needs. But the first step is to create awareness of TBI among businesses of all sizes to try and prevent people with brain injury becoming a disenfranchised group of people exiting the workforce. To find out more about LSOT visit: Neuro-Occuaptional-Therapist. co.uk

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Paediatrics All the latest from the world of paediatrics

SECTION he days are drawing in much faster now; we’re getting to that time of year where everyone feels like they start work or school in the dark and arrive home in the evening having missed out on all the daylight hours. The looming promise of Christmas seems to make things go a little easier, the days can be a little gloomy at this point in the year. Christmas-related activities bring a little brightness to many people’s lives, so on page 52 you’ll

find a host of festive activities that can be done with younger people, combining the season with the power of OT. Alongside this, you’ll find a host of products that might be helpful for your younger clients on page 57, and as ever, if you have something you think should be featured in our paediatrics section, don’t hesitate to drop us an email to Ros@2APublishing.co.uk. Merry Christmas to all of our readers who celebrate when it finally comes!

Read on to find out more...

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FESTIVE FUN Get your younger clients into the festive spirit by theming some popular therapy activities with a Christmas twist

ith the festive season just around the corner, we take a look at how you can transform the occupational therapy activities you conduct with your younger clients. From winter-themed sensory sensations, to Christmas baking and biscuit decorating, it’s time to harness the magic of Christmas and combine it with the power of OT.

PLAYDOUGH SNOWMEN You may have some readymade white playdough in your OT toolkit already, but if you need to whip up a batch of your own, it couldn’t be easier. You just need flour, salt, water and oil, with the optional addition of glitter if you want to make your snow look twinkly. There are many recipes for making playdough online to give you the correct quantities depending on much you need, you can also colour it with food colouring to make a whole rainbow of colours. Once you have your playdough, it’s time to set to work on those snowmen. Kids will enjoy making the body and head for the snowman by rolling the playdough in their hands to make circles, working on their hand strength and coordination. They can then work on their fine motor skills by making the eyes and carrot nose, and using buttons to decorate. The end result will look great and you can create a whole family of snowmen of all different shapes and sizes.

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CHRISTMAS BAKING Find a simple biscuit recipe to prepare (BBCGoodFood.com is always a good place to look for this), look out some Christmas cookie cutters and set out an array of sprinkles for kids to work with. Rustle up some icing by using icing sugar and a little water, adding to make the right consistency for letting kids spread over the biscuits. Using a range of Christmas biscuit shapes, from trees and baubles to bells and presents, you can encourage little ones to get creative and try some intricate details by picking up silver balls individually to place on or use small tongs to pick up larger sprinkles and edible decorations. The best thing about this activity is that you all have a tasty treat to enjoy at the end.

MEMORY TRAY

CREATE A SENSORY SCENTED BOX

The memory tray game is a great way to work on children’s memory skills, recall, attention and focus. You can make this a festive themed game by ensuring all of the items you put on the tray link to Christmas or winter. Use items like baubles, chocolate Santas, tinsel, stars, candles, ribbon and anything else you find in your toolkit. Give children a minute to observe everything on the tray and then take it away and ask them to list all the items they remember from it. You could also remove the tray and take one item off before returning it and asking the children to figure out which item is missing.

Sensory boxes are a fantastic tool to allow kids to explore their senses. Christmas-themed boxes can indulge the senses with a mixture of scents, textures and sounds. A great option to fill out your box with is dyed, scented rice and pasta, simply add dry rice and pasta to a bag with a splash of vinegar, some red or green food colouring and some peppermint essence for that wonderful candy cane smell. Lie the rice and pasta on a tray overnight to dry out then pop it in the box and find some fun items to add in for kids to play with. Mini baubles and tinkly bells are great additions, as are fluffy pom poms, foam shapes and toy stars. Introduce cupcake cases and little spoons to allow kids to scoop and fill the cases until their heart’s content.

MAKE SNOW It is very unlikely we will have a white Christmas this year so we will have to make do with making our own snow! Making snow can be a great sensory activity to get children involved in, and it can be used for making pictures or creating snowy winter scenes. Mix equal parts of cornflour and bicarbonate of soda, then add a very small amount of water gradually until the mixture comes together and crumbles creating a snow like consistency that can be sprinkled around.

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MAKING SNOWFLAKES Paper snowflakes are a wonderful activity to allow children to practice fine motor skills using scissors. This simple activity only requires some scissors and some paper, but it can be wonderfully creative and fun, while also developing fine motor skills, grasp and focus. Encourage your kids to experiment with cutting different shapes out of the folded paper to see the different snowflakes they can make. You can then also go on to colour these in or add some glitter to make them sparkly and festive.

CHRISTMAS CARDS

MARSHMALLOW SNOWMEN These tasty treats are perfect for kids to create and eat straight away or add to a hot chocolate on a frosty day. All you need is marshmallows, chocolate chips for the eyes and buttons, fizzy laces for a scarf, an orange gummy sweet for the nose, a chocolate (maybe a Rolo) for the hat and pretzels for the arms. Simply melt a little chocolate in a bowl, add three marshmallows onto a wooden skewer stick and use the melted chocolate like glue to start decorating. Make hot chocolates and let the kids start melting their marshmallow snowmen in them for a tasty treat.

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Getting crafty and Christmassy can produce some wonderful and personal cards that can showcase children’s talents and develop their skills. This messy activity will get the creative juices flowing, and using a large array of craft items, glitter glue, pasta shapes and Christmas-themed confetti can create some beautiful cards from your younger clients. It allows them to express their creative side and they can choose someone special to make their cards for. You know these are going to bring a smile to someone special when they are made. For some amazing OT-led winter activities check out TheOTToolbox. com.

Includes on booklet e s u to how s the card

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Making Sense of

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

Kids

BEARHUGZZZ SPACESAVER BED

This soft and strong bed is ideal for children and adults, and can help keep people who wake during the night safe thanks to its high walls and durable nature. Sides on the bed can be made as high as needed, and the bed comes with a mattress, safety base sheet, and can be attached to three walls and two doors for additional security. 01978 820 714 | Kinderkey.co.uk 2

SENSORY BALL HOUSE

Suitable for use with projectors and UV resources, this pop-up sensory ball tent provides a safe and soothing space for children to enjoy. The tent comes with a carry bag, meaning it can be transported with ease, and its structure allows it to be erected quickly and simply. The balls are sold separately, and glow when exposed to a light or UV light source. 03330 160 000 CompleteCareShop.co.uk 3

PEA POD

Designed to create a calming, deeppressure environment for people to relax in, the pod provides the user with proprioceptive pressure, and creates clear spatial boundaries in which to relax. It’s made from vinyl, which is durable and strong, and can be inflated and packed away with ease when not needed. 01270 766 660 | RhinoUK.com

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EDZ KIDZ EAR DEFENDERS

Lightweight but strong, these ear defenders help reduce sound in noisy environments, ideal for children and young people who experience sensitivity to noise or busy environments. The ear defenders fold away when not in use, making them simple to store and carry, and are available in a wide assortment of colours. Amazon.co.uk 5

UNDERCOVER TAPE

Labels can irritate children, especially those with sensory sensitivities, and cutting the labels off can sometimes make the problem worse. Undercover Tape is a hypoallergenic, latex-free, self-adhesive tape that smooths over itchy or irritating clothing tags. Usable on delicate fabrics, it can last up to five wash and dry cycles on clothing. 02380 971 002 | SensorySmart.co.uk 6

ANTI-TOPPLE GRIPPY CUP

Ergonomically designed, the wide base on this cup makes it more difficult to knock over. It’s got a soft but grippy exterior coating, and can be used for hot drinks as well as cold, making it an ideal mug for hot chocolate season. Its interior is made of tritan, which the makers claim is indestructible, and is dishwasherand microwave-safe. TumTumTots.com

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7 7

COLLIS CURVE TOOTHBRUSH

This toothbrush is designed to clean the whole tooth and gum using only forward and backwards motions. Its unique bristle style ensures that the areas where the tooth meets the gums are cleaned effectively, helping to ensure healthy gums, and making it quite useful for children who need additional help with oral hygiene. 02893 382 554 | GrowingSmiles.co.uk 8

BUNDLE BEAN WHEELCHAIR COSY

Ideal for the cold weather, this fleece-lined cosy also sports a waterproof shell, so it’s ideal for keeping young people warm and dry during wintertime. Available in 12 fun styles, the covers are easy to fit and can be stowed away in seconds into its stuff-sac. The cover fits all manual and powered wheelchairs.

BundleBean.com 9

CARIBBEAN BED

The Caribbean bed from Centrobed is a multi-positional turning bed that gives you the ability to turn whilst remaining in a seated position, reducing the risk of pressure ulcers and paraesthesia. It is height-adjustable, reducing strain on carers when assisting, and can be automatically controlled by adding an auto box that can be programmed to turn throughout the day or night, relieving pressure and reducing pain. 01233 635 353 | Centrobed.com

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CPD OPPORTUNITIES With The OT Show looming, and offering so many opportunities for learning, networking and CPD, it can all be a little overwhelming. The show is vast, busy and has a multitude of talks, workshops and demonstrations happening across the floor over two days. The best way to attack this show and ensure you get everything you want out of it is to make a plan of action factoring in the talks you want to attend, the workshops you want to participate in, and leaving time to explore the exhibition floor, get a well-earned coffee, and network with your peers.

ith this in mind we showcase some of the amazing talks taking place to help you pick out the most relevant ones for you to attend.

WED 23 NOV Theatre 2: 16:00 - 16:45 Speaker: Samantha Tavender, Lecturer In Occupational Therapy -

University of Huddersfield Title: The impact of the costof-living crisis on occupational participation and performance Currently within the UK, individuals are finding themselves increasingly unable to meet their health and wellbeing needs due to the current cost and price of necessities and everyday items without seeing an increase in their income (paid employment, benefits, pension), this is referred to as a cost-ofliving crisis. This presentation will explore the impact that this has had on individuals’ participation and performance of their meaningful occupations. Lastly, this presentation will offer the opportunity to showcase some examples of ways in which occupational therapists can support individuals during this challenging and uncertain time. Keynote Theatre: 11:15 - 11:45

Currently within the UK, individuals are finding themselves increasingly unable to meet their health and wellbeing needs due to the current cost and price of necessities 60

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Speaker: Samantha Shann, President, World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT) Title: Occupational therapy and sustainability - design matters Developing from the World OT Day message of ‘Opportunity + choice = justice’, Samantha will use this session to explore how recommendations can both influence, and be influenced by, social responsibility. Samantha will consider the values of occupational therapy, both domestically and internationally, to reflect on how the application of these values can have a lasting impact on the environment and social justice.

Keynote Theatre: 13:00 - 13:45

Theatre 2: 09:45 - 10:15

Speakers: Dr Rebecca Twinley, senior lecturer, University of Brighton

Speaker: Karen Powell, clinical director, Maximum Potential Title: A marked increase in demand for Sensory Integration services in the UK - how the needs of the paediatric population are changing

Deborah Murphy, specialist OT in personality disorder, NHS/National probation service Hollie Berrigan, lived experience lead, Beam Consultancy Keir Harding, clinical lead, Beam Consultancy Title: A light in the darkness: Illuminating the dark side of occupation The dark side of occupation is a concept that identifies how OTs have been traditionally concerned with activities that bring obvious health benefits. The difficulty is that no one is ever detained in prison or hospital due to their inability to shop or cook. This session includes academic, clinical and lived experience and provides examples of how OTs might enhance their expertise in areas such as suicide and violence, as well making a case that this is an essential part of our work Showcase Theatre: 13:20 - 13:50 Speaker: Lucy Leonard, clinical director, The OT Service Title: The impact of language resilience et al This session provides a reflection on the use of common and clinical or therapeutic language, delving into connotations, relationships and psychological or social impacts. Words such as ‘resilience’ and ‘bariatric’ feature as part of the discussion to stimulate further reflection.

Keynote Theatre: 10:30 - 11:15 Speaker: Odeth Richardson, Chair of Council, RCOT Title: My Leadership Journey reflections and insights A discussion around the new strategy and how this will help us address the diversity gap within the profession. Can the new strategy deliver on its aspirations? How do we address the current challenges?

THU 24 NOV Keynote Theatre: 13:15 - 14:00 Speaker: Sam Pywell, co-founder of AbleOTUK, social prescribing unit coordinator - AbleOTUK Natalie Hicks, student OT and founding member - AbleOTUK Georgia Vine, graduate teaching assistant in occupational therapy and founding member - AbleOTUK Rachel Booth-Gardiner, OT and founding member - AbleOTUK Title: AbleOTUK – Allyship: It’s Time to Make It a Meaningful Occupation The presentation will highlight ableism within in occupational therapy practice and why AbleOTUK is needed as an affinity group. Yet, on contrary to this we all have to be a part of the change. Therefore, AbleOTUK will be talking about allyship and how we as occupational therapist can make this an integral part of our practice.

The demand for Sensory Integration therapy in the UK is reaching unprecedented levels, with private practices barely able to keep up with demand. Why is there such a need for services, especially since re-integration into society post lockdown? How are children, or the demands placed on them, changing? Occupational therapists are being approached daily by parents looking for help who are then met with long waiting lists and little immediate relief. What can we do to change this? How should society as a whole, adapt too? Theatre 2: 13:45 - 14:15 Speaker: Kezia Edridge, OT, Avon and Wiltshire mental health partnership, NHS Title: Occupational Therapy, Human Trafficking and Modern-day Slavery – emerging role Human Trafficking and modern-day slavery are complex, harmful and largely hidden crimes, with human trafficking being the second fasted growing enterprise in the world. Human trafficking is a violation of an individual’s human rights and social and political issue of occupational injustice, with a significant negative impact on health, wellbeing and prolonged instability. Occupational Therapy is not established in this sector and is an emerging role. Visit TheOTShow.com/ Programme-2022 for the full conference programme.

Learning Points: 1 To critically explore the affects of ableism within occupational therapy practice. 2 To critically explore how to be an ally to the disabled community 3 To critically explore the importance of lived experience in the profession.

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OTAC 2023 Confirmed dates Visit an OTAC near you for expert seminars and exhibitors specialising in home adaptations and equipment. An event hosted by

OTAC Glasgow

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OTAC Llandrindod Wells

OTAC Leeds

OTAC Belfast

OTAC Cambridge

Wednesday 22nd March 2023

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Wednesday 10th May 2023

Wednesday 14th June 2023

OTAC Chester

OTAC Kent

OTAC London/Watford

OTAC Cardiff

Wednesday 13th September 2023

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SAFE SPACES Occupational therapy is for everyone

ver the last few years three affinity groups have been created to support underrepresented communities within the occupational therapy profession. 2020 saw the founding of BAMEOTUK, and this inspired the formation of LGBTQIA+OTUK and ABLEOTUK in 2021. These groups represent and support their communities by offering safe spaces to openly discuss concerns, receive mentorship from other members, network with peers and knowledge share through seminars or discussion groups. The groups are open to practising OTs, students, and educators, and they have been providing vital support to members, as well as raising awareness of the inequalities and discrimination that still exist in the profession. If you identify with any of these groups, please do seek them out on Twitter or visit AffinOT.co.uk to find out more. We have included a brief overview of each of the groups below.

BAMEOTUK NETWORK BAMEOTUK is the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnicities Occupational Therapy Practitioners, Students and Educators Network. The network was created in June 2020 following the death of George Floyd in America and the historic protests that followed, raising awareness of the racism and discrimination that still exist in our society, and within the OT profession. This network aims to create change through establishing a space of discussion, support, activism, teaching and learning, outreach education, mentorship and partnership working. They act in the pursuit of equal opportunities, equity, justice, diversity and belonging. Regular network meetings are run monthly over Zoom, taking place on the third Wednesday or Thursday of

each month. Meetings cycle three themes: 1 CPD session 2 Catch-up, support and general discussion 3 Healing session To join any of the meetings, simply visit BAMEOT.uk and fill in the form on the homepage. Follow @BAMEOTUK

LGBTQIA+OTUK Officially formed in June 2021, the LGBTQIA+OTUK group exists to allow members to connect, share, learn, and celebrate all things LGBTQIA+. The group has been crucial in increasing representation within the profession and is open to all OTs, OT students, OT assistants and OT educators, and allies of the community. In representing their community, this group has offered a safe space for individuals in the profession to be their full authentic selves, and it continues to drive the profession forward in this arena.

ABLEOTUK

AbleOTUK is a network and advocacy group that exists to represent UK-based occupational therapists living with disabilities and long-term health conditions. The group was officially launched in July 2021 founded by a group of OTs with lived experience of disability. AbleOTUK aims to tackle ableism within the profession and educate others on the impact of this. They are developing resources on a range of topics including disclosure of a disability or health condition, and supporting OT colleagues who identify as disabled, as well as collaborating with RCOT to progress an anti-discriminatory culture within the profession. You will find monthly Zoom sessions arranged as a closed safe space for members to share and gain peer support to process experiences and challenges. They take place on the third Thursday of every month. Find out more at AffinOT.co.uk/ AbleOTUK. Follow @AbleOTUK

They host a monthly online event called Connect, which is a closed peer connection space for UK-based LGBTQIA+ OTs. This event is held over Zoom on the last Monday of every month at 7pm, you can email lgbtqiaplusot@gmail.com or visit AffinOT.co.uk/LGBTQIAOTUK to sign up to the mailing list. Follow @LGBTQIAOTUK

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Yourevents

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

We take a look at the remaining events for 2022 and the packed calendar of events and exhibitions that are lined up for OTs in 2023! Get your CPD lined up for the year and plan the events you want to attend this year.

Kidz to Adultz Events 23-24 NOV 2022

MIDDLE – 16 MAR

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

OTAC Events

Farnborough International

SOUTH – 16 MAY

Exhibition and Conference Centre WALES & WEST – 21 SEPT NORTH – NOV

ICC Newport, Wales

dates and venue TBC

Free exhibition dedicated to children and young adults with disabilities and additional needs, their families, carers and all the professionals who support them, the events are packed with exhibitors and boast a great CPD seminar programme. KidzExhibitions.co.uk 22-23 MAR 2023

2022 Hilton Hotel, Reading

READING – 9 NOV

Vale Resort, Cardiff

CARDIFF – 7 DEC

2023 Golden Jubilee Hotel

GLASGOW – 25 JAN

Hilton Dublin Airport

DUBLIN – 1 FEB

BRISTOL – 15 MAR

Aztec Hotel & Spa

LLANDRINDOD WELLS – 22 MAR

Metropole Hotel and Spa Weetwood Hall Estate

LEEDS – 19 APR

BELFAST – 10 MAY

The Malone Hotel

CAMBRIDGE – 14 JUN

Bar Hill Hotel by Best Western CHESTER – 13 SEP KENT – 8 NOV

The Queen by Best Western

The Spa Hotel

WATFORD – 29 NOV CARDIFF – 13 DEC

Hilton Watford Vale Resort

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

CBS Arena, Coventry

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Naidex NEC, Birmingham Naidex returns in 2023 to celebrate its 50th anniversary. Boasting a dedicated CPD seminar programme, a wide range of innovative exhibitors, interactive demonstrations and expert speakers, this year’s event promises to be unmissable. Nadiex.co.uk

2022/23 Calendar 22-23 MAR 2023

European Neuro Convention NEC, Birmingham Europe’s only trade event for brain and spine experts. Two days packed with workshops and expert industry speakers, the chance to gain free CPD, meet with suppliers and network with likeminded people that can share their knowledge and solutions to improve patient outcomes in the neurological sector. NeuroConvention.com 22-23 MAR 2023

UK Care Week NEC, Birmingham This event showcases the technology, products and content that will not only enable care homes to implement high-quality, person-centred care models, but also inspire business growth as a result. CareHomeExpo.co.uk

14-15 JUN 2023

RCOT Annual Conference virtual event RCOT’s Annual Conference is now held as a virtual event to allow more OTs to access the content and opportunities available over the two days. It is packed with interactive sessions, opportunities for informative meetings, sociable and networking sessions, exhibitor/sponsor skills exchanges and demonstrations, and much more, inspiring discussion and involvement. RCOT.co.uk 10-12 JULY

26-27 APR 2023

Residential and Home Care Show ExCel, London This show is part of Health Plus Care, and the show will focus on how you can improve the quality of care you offer, workforce recruitment and retention challenges, and how social care can better integrate with the NHS, as well as covering personalised care, safeguarding, dementia, CQC inspections, employment laws and new technologies. HealthPlusCare.co.uk/Residential

PMG Conference The International Centre, Telford PMG’s annual conference provides an educational, industry exhibition and networking events for professionals working in the field on posture and wheeled mobility. PMGuk.co.uk 12 JULY 2023

COTS 2023 Westpoint Arena, Exeter The Care and Occupational Therapy Show is the only trade show dedicated to care home professionals and occupational therapists in the south west of England. Discover products and services on the exhibition floor, attend a variety of panel discussions and listen to keynote speakers who are internationally renowned experts in the field of healthcare. CareExhibition.co.uk

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