OT Magazine - November / December 17

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improving independence

19 ISSUE

ELebra CEL ting

NOV/DEC 2017

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Products

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RECRUITMENT

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COLUMNS

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MAGAZINE

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About us

The Team

Editor: Rosalind Tulloch Staff Writer: Colette Carr Designer: Stephen Flanagan Marketing: Sophie Scott Sales: Robin Wilson Contributors: Kate Sheehan, Dawn Blenkin, Paul Aitken, Steve Macdonald

This month’s issue...

F

ollowing nine months of blissful maternity leave I am delighted tto o be back at the helm of The OT Magazine and must take this opportunity to thank the team for taking care of it in my absence.

Get in touch

2A Publishing Ltd, Caledonia House, Evanton Dr, Thornliebank Industrial Estate, Glasgow, G46 8JT

What an issue to return on, as we celebrate 100 years of occupational therapy. This ever-evolving profession has a fascinating history and the strides that have been made into wide and varied fields, is simply proof that the next years will be sure to showcase even more exciting progression.

0141 465 2960 ot-magazine.co.uk The OT Magazine @ot_magazine

With OT Week occurring as this issue lands on your doorstep, it is the perfect chance to shout about your profession.

Why not set up a presentation at your place of work with your colleagues or share some information on what you do through your social media sites.

Occupational therapy remains an enigma to those who have not directly encountered it in their lives, so it is our job to educate as many people as we can and enlighten them to the invaluable work of an OT.

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 2017 © 2A Publishing Limited. All Rights Reserved. ISSN-2056-7146

This issue we have a focus on living with dementia, looking at how to create a dementia-friendly bathroom, exploring music therapy and ta ing a look at the success some groups are having with sport. We also delve into the world of adoption, speak with OTs who are profoundly deaf and use their personal experience to communicate

From

14 .99 a year

£

with and help young deaf people to achie e their goals and explore the role of occupational therapy in gambling. In addition, we have our regular columns, product features, news and events to keep you up to date with all that is going on in the industry.

I also wanted to bring your attention to the fact that The OT Magazine is now CPD certified and could contribute to ards your CPD as a registrant of HCPC. I would also like to highlight that the magazine is now on a subscription basis.

As much as we would like to continue to deliver it to every OT free of charge, unfortunately we can no longer support the demand for With OT Week the magazine. occurring as this issue However, what this will allow lands on your doorstep, us to do now is it is the perfect chance add even more to shout about your value to your membership. Turn profession. to page to disco er all the benefits of becoming a Pro member for only £45 per year or you can opt for the standard package at only £14.99 which will ensure you continue to receive the magazine straight to your door every issue to enjoy and include in your file. f you ha e any queries at all, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

The OT Magazine, Editor

Join our OT community Further your career and enhance your CPD by becoming part of our OT Community with the pro package

Find out more on page 83.

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What’s inside t e

Contents 07 What’s New? Bringing you up to speed with the latest news from the healthcare sector

13 Technology – Are

We Looking in the Right Place?

33

Kate Sheehan asks how well OTs are keeping up with advances in technology

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25 A Day in the

Life Of…

OT Heather Scott tells us about her day working with young people in the NHS

27 Remembering the

beautiful game

15 Professional Identity Steve Macdonald discusses the complex needs which O s fulfil in the health services

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

23 Powering Through

for The Prince’s Trust Katie Peers shares her experiences of her charity cycle challenge

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How Leyton Orient FC are reconnecting fans with the game

30 Creating a

Dementia-Friendly Bathroom

41

Tips for designing a bathroom ideal for people living with dementia

33 Hitting the

Right Notes Daniel Thomas explains how music can help patients with dementia

37 Product Focus More of the must-have latest products on the market

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Living Well

What’s Inside

64 Give Me a Sign ighlighting the importance of communicating ith deaf clients

45

69 Hot Topic he pros and cons of online learning

79 41 Everyone is on

64 Join the OT Community Page 83

Drugs

Paul Aitken challenges our view on drugs, both legal and illegal

45 Living Well he fi e factors to li ing well

48 100 Years of

Occupational Therapy We look back and celebrate years of occupational therapy

54 Facilitating Families Working with children in the care system

FROM £14.99

59 Kids’ Products roducts to help your younger clients

73 Take a Seat Kate Sheehan asks what should be considered when buying a seat for clients

79 A Roll of the Dice he issue of compulsi e gambling is as real as it is hidden

85 The Occupational

Therapy Show

elebrate years of O at he Occupational herapy Show

89 A Journey of

Self-Discovery tudent ad ice on selfa areness from a n Blenkin

91 Your Events pcoming e ents for a ampac ed

93 Why Become a

Case Manager?

ILS discuss what it takes to become a case manager

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

What’s new?

Sensory workshops familiarise disabled children with medical process T Findings he Lightyear Foundation – a charity which aims to ensure that all children can have access to a good quality science education – has announced the second in its series of Sensory Science workshops with the specific aim of demystifying the medical process for disabled children and reducing the number of ‘failed’ NHS appointments.

The workshops use sensory equipment and drama techniques to help disabled children develop mechanisms to cope with the number and nature of the medical procedures they must attend. This in turn will reduce the cost to the NHS when appointments are not able to go ahead due to the distress caused to the child and their parents/ carers.

This doesn’t just make medical procedures much more difficult for children and their parents, it also puts significant pressure on the already overburdened NHS. Key pressure points identified included, waiting, noisy or crowded areas, unfamiliar people, staying still and not understanding what is happening.

Children and parents identified the most challenging procedures as blood tests, cannula insertion, electroencephalogram (EEG), MRI scans and general anaesthesia.

In order to familiarise children with these procedures, the workshops use a variety of techniques. The myriad wires of an EEG machine are re-purposed into an EEG maypole.

Children can create art with (safe!) syringes or have fun mixing plasma, red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets to create a healthy blood potion. Child-friendly human body kits give children an insight into which of their organs are being checked, and why.

For more information about the foundation please visit www.lightyearfoundation.org

Research undertaken by Lightyear Foundation earlier this year showed that:

68%

of disabled children find medical appointments difficult

55%

found medical procedures challenging

34%

medical professionals surveyed estimated that 34% of medical procedures for disabled children had to be repeated because the first or pre ious attempts ere not successful

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What’s

new?

Facts

Making eye care accessible for all

A

new partnership, launched on World Sight Day (12 October), saw national charity SeeAbility and Derby-based Ophthalmic wholesaler Mid-Optic working together to make eye care accessible for people with learning disabilities and autism.

Adults and children with learning disabilities and autism are more likely to have serious sight problems than other people and yet are much less likely to get the eye care they need.

Working closely with Mid-Optic, SeeAbility hopes to change this by

Posture and Mobility Group Call for Papers PMG are reaching out to healthcare professionals to present at their conference in July 2018.

The 2018 Posture & Mobility Group conference will take place from 23 to 25 July 2018 at Manchester Central, and focuses on posture and mobility for wheelchair users, attracting a multidisciplinary audience of professionals.

The conference committee are particularly interested in receiving research-based presentations and case studies; subjects could include postural management, pressure care, electronic assistive technology, powered and manual mobility solutions, outcome measures, paediatrics, stability, plus size equipment solutions and transportation. They welcome abstracts from professionals working in all sectors, however they must be evidence-based and fully referenced.

Deadline 22 January 2018, submit at pmguk.co.uk

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increasing awareness of the problem within the optical sector and providing the specialist information and support they need to make their practice more accessible.

The charity is calling on eye care professionals across the UK to do one thing to improve the situation download its new practical guide and make the changes needed to support people with learning disabilities and autism through an eye test.

The practical guide can be downloaded at seeability.org/accessible-practice.

10x

Adults with learning disabilities are 10 times more likely to have serious sight problems than others, yet less than half have not had a sight test in the last two years.

28x

Children with learning disabilities are 28 times more likely to have serious sight problems than other children but fewer than 7% have accessed a community optician for a routine sight test.

Funding success for farm-based mental health charity

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rowing Well managed to secure £145,000 of contributions towards its running costs for the next three years. The charity, which is in its 14th year spans six acres of land near Kendal and offers one-toone occupational therapy support to participants on the organic farm.

The funding, which came from The Henry Smith Charity (£70,000), The Tudor Trust (£60,000) and Cumbria Community Foundation (£15,000) ensures the charity can continue to offer valued support to those living with depression or mental ill health.

As an organic farm they offer many ways for people to get involved, to learn new skills, get active and feel valued for their contribution. growingwell.co.uk

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What’s

new?

New website for Safe Patient Handling

I

nvacare have launched a brand new website dedicated entirely to it’s Safe Patient Handling range. t has been specifically created with occupational therapists and healthcare professionals in mind and the Invacare team will be demonstrating the new site and its educational resources and showing how it can be used in day to day practice at the OT Show on stand E20. The main features of the new site include: Your Community: A group of six personas that bring to life the people who are regularly encountered within the community and residential care. Each persona has different physical and cognitive impairments, and are based on the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) to help highlight how their needs link to equipment choices.

Knowledge Bank: A series of clinical resources, including case studies, that have been created to help provide occupational therapists and healthcare professionals with additional knowledge and insights to enhance their daily practice.

Assessment Tools: Information on relevant assessment methods, such as the Person-Environment-Occupation (PEO) model and the Task-IndividualLoad-Environment (TILE) risk assessment tool, and how these work together.

Solutions: dentification of ho Invacare’s range of Safe Patient Handling products are designed to address safety in moving and handling around the home, in the bathroom and in the bedroom.

Follow @InvacareSPH on Twitter for regular updates.

OT Week 2017

T

aking place on 6-12 November, OT Week is your chance to shout about your profession and promote the incredible impact that occupational therapy has on people’s lives. This years’ theme is ‘I Am An Occupational Therapist’

and encourages you to share your profession and the work you do with colleagues, management, friends, family and your wider community.

Share your photos and experiences of your OT Week with us on Twitter @ot_magazine.

Students get creative University of Essex OT students got their creati e uices flo ing as they learned creative techniques for future professional practice from local artists. asters students explored the benefits of crafts, creative writing, sculpting, wildlife photography and weaving in OT, and senior lecturer Wendy Bryant said, “the creative writing sessions equipped the students with different ways of thinking about storytelling, which can be used very successfully to encourage reminiscence and reflection in older people. Weaving and sculpture sho ed them ho beneficial group art projects can be to encourage people to communicate. Photography can be a good creative outlet to recommend to clients.”

For student Gracie McKibbin, Nicola Burrell’s sculpting session particularly resonated.

“I don’t think I could have anticipated that this activity could involve so many skills,” said Gracie, whose group created a large cardboard sculpture.

“I now feel that it could be useful for clients in a therapeutic setting as it was a truly cohesive group activity which encouraged us to communicate with each other in order to problemsolve. I went to each session openminded but certainly had some pre-conceived ideas, which I’m pleased to say have been challenged.”

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What’s

new?

OTs call for support in the workplace A

report commissioned by the government revealing that up to 300,000 people living with long-term mental health problems have had to leave their jobs each year has led to a number of occupational therapists to call for more intervention to ensure people can remain in work.

The Thriving at Work Report, commissioned by Prime Minister Theresa May, also claims poor mental health costs the UK economy up to £99bn each year.

With many of the workforce feeling forced out of work due to the taboo surrounding opening up about our mental health, the review suggested; create a mental health at work plan, build mental health awareness by making information and support accessible, encourage open conversations, provide good working conditions and ensure employees have a healthy work-life balance, promote effective people management, with line managers holding regular conversations about health and wellbeing with their staff and routinely monitor employee mental health.

With an estimated loss of £42bn each year due to this, the Prime Minister is calling for NHS England and the civil service to implement the recommendations, leaving great scope for the growth of occupational therapy in the industry sector.

She said: “It is only by making this an everyday concern for everyone that

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we change the way we see mental illness, so that striving to improve your mental health - whether at work or at home - is seen as just as positive as improving our physical wellbeing.”

Mental Health Facts 300,000 people The amount of people living with long-term mental health problems that have had to leave their job this year

£99 billion The amount that poor mental health costs the UK economy each year

OT on the big screen It isn’t often that occupational therapy features on our small screens, let alone the silver screen.

But the profession is getting the Hollywood blockbuster treatment as screen favourite Matt Damon plays kind occupational therapist, Paul Safranek.

Starring alongside Bridesmaids’ Kristen Wigg who plays Paul’s wife udrey in Oscar-tipped sci-fi feature film, o nsi ing, hich sees the pair shrin do n to fi e inches courtesy of the new fad ‘cellular miniaturisation’. he aramount film hits theatres on 22 December, while the UK release date is yet to be announced.

The OT app t he O aga ine e are always looking for new ways to develop your favourite occupational therapy maga ine.

Out every two months, the app features all the latest products, in-depth features, industry news, personal profiles and up-todate information on events and exhibitions that you find in the maga ine but you can do nload it to your mobile phone or tablet to read on the go. The app is available as part of the OT Pro Package. See ot-magazine/subscriptions

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Single Handed Care Find the solutions right here

Transfers, positioning, support and lifting. Handicare products and solutions are designed to make everyday life easier.

T: 0800 620 0716 • E: mhbsenquiries@handicare.co.uk

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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

This issue Kate talks technology

Technology - are we looking in the right place?

Words by Kate Sheehan

I

ualified in and at that time e had one BB icro computer at college, there ere no mobile phones, no internet and social media as meeting up ith your mates on a hursday night at the Blessing arriage pub in erby for happy hour. o e can access loads of information at our finger tips on our mobile phones, instant message our friends and expect a reply immediately and recei e excellent ia itter ith the O al team. o ho are e accessing and using technology ith our clients and are e eeping up to date ith the ne de elopments hat is technology he Oxford nglish dictionary states it is the application of scientific no ledge for practical purposes , thus, for an occupational therapist, it is ho a specific piece of technology can impro e our clients occupational performance. here ha e been a significant number of companies ithin our sector that ha e and continue to produce some

brilliant products, teepler and ossum ha e tried and tested products ith excellent customer ser ice bac up support.

But should e be loo ing to the mainstream for ans ers he home automation technology coming out can really gi e our clients choice and control o er their li es, ha e you e er considered the products featured hese are ust a fe of the products on the mainstream mar et that can enable our clients. thin it is our duty to eep abreast of hat is coming in the future and the follo ing are not that far a ay. oilets that ill analyse your urine and faeces and inform your of any anomaly. itchens ith robot arms that ill coo your fa ourite recipes. printers that ill print your food. ho er trays that can detect that you ha e fallen.

Tech to be considered Amazon Echo

The Amazon Echo, a smart technology that is connected to the voice controlled intelligent personal assistant, Alexa, can enable your clients to set alarms, play music, ask questions, check your calendar, weather, traffic or sports scores or even set up a shopping list for them. It can also access Just Eat, Uber, BBC News or just read a book to you. Its features and benefits are changing monthly and could be a real alternative device to more traditional pieces of kit. However the key feature is its affordability with a starting tag of only £89.99.

Automatic vacuum cleaners

Automatic vacuum cleaners are also one to consider. Where domestic assistance is often difficult to access an iRobot 980 or a Dyson 360 eye could be an option to clean your customers oors on a programmable timer or via an app. They are not cheap but can give more choice and control to your client on when and how much to clean.

Lighting

The Hue range from Phillips is controlled via a wireless bridge through Amazon Echo, your clients can choose to change the colour of lighting or turn lights off all through voice activation or an app.

he possibilities are endless, e ust need to eep up to date on the e er changing technological ad ances. o e er ha e to stress if your clients ha e a home, here the si e and space to mo e around is restricted by the bric s and mortar, you can ha e all the technology in the orld, but your clients ill not ha e the space to do their acti ities of choice.

Automatic lawn mowers

Automatic lawn mowers such as the Bosch Indego, mow your lawn when it needs to be mowed. It comes out of its ‘home’, analyses the grass growth and decides whether it needs to be cut. Due to it cutting the grass so frequently it mulches the cutting back into the lawn, so also reduces any physical removal of grass cuttings.

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Words by Steve Macdonald

Professional

identity Why we occupational therapists need to shout from the rooftops about the expertise we bring to the health service and why we need to remind our health service colleagues that our interventions are invariably complex.

I

am an occupational being and have always appreciated the importance of occupation in health and wellbeing. Even before I undertook formal training in occupational therapy I understood the value of meaningful doing. As a disabled person growing up, I recognised the importance of engaging in all aspects of life and sort solutions to any issues relating to engagement in valued occupations.

Following my psychology degree, I organised and led a number of high profile expeditions including a circumnavigation of mainland Britain by sea kayak, raising money for medical research and I became the first disabled person to complete this journey. Having gained so much from my o n experiences, on returning from Australia where I had trekked across the outback with camels, I established a national charity project which aimed to promote health and wellbeing

through participation in adventurous or creative journeys.

It was at this point that I decided to formally train as an occupational therapist and ever since I have been championing the value of occupation. ennifer ree defined occupational therapy as a complex inter ention (Creek, 2003) and from my post ualifying experience in both secure mental health and older people’s mental health services I would concur that occupational therapy inter entions are complex.

However, as is the case for so many occupational therapists, I have sometimes struggled to articulate

what it is I do. Over time though, by utilising the Royal College of Occupational Therapists’ guidance documents, considering the evidence from the literature and most recently quoting case studies from my own practice, ha e gained confidence in my own professional identity and better articulated my professional reasoning. rofessor iane ox said in this year s Casson Memorial lecture (2017), the problem we have as a profession is that e ma e this complex intervention appear simple. Again, it is evident from my own practice experience and that of my peers, that the result of underselling our role as occupational therapists is that it continues to be poorly understood. ď ľ

Again, it is evident from my own practice experience and that of my peers, that the result of underselling our role as occupational therapists is that it continues to be poorly understood.

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Steve MacDonald

One strategy to reverse this trend, as Professor Annie Turner writes (Turner, 2015), is to reclaim our occupational language. So let us stop talking about a patient’s functioning and start talking about a patient’s engagement in occupation and let us talk about our role within inpatient services of reducing occupational deprivation for our patients that arises from the hospital environment.

For some time now, I have presented on the role of occupational therapy through bite-sized training to ward teams and within my one hour slots as part of the junior doctor and student nurse inductions. In these sessions I do not hold back on the use of (occupational therapy) professional language and I always talk about our model for practice (Model of Human Occupation), activity analysis, the just right challenge - I could go on.

Without fail at the end of one of these sessions a member of the audience will seek me out to say that they didn’t realise just how much is involved in occupational therapy interventions.

Hallelujah!

Unfortunately, alongside our issues around role clarity and articulating the evidence base is a national picture that I believe is leading us into a perfect storm. ith the fi e-year for ard ie (NHS England, 2014) and strategic transformation plans, there is an opportunity to find our niche, capitalise on the increased pace of change and

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There continues to be a squeeze on NHS resources, a relentless cost improvement agenda and now a national recruitment crisis. dare say e en ha e some influence over the direction of this change.

However, there continues to be a squeeze on NHS resources, a relentless cost improvement agenda and now a national recruitment crisis. Within this national context and the “need for new models of care”, there appears to be a push towards AHPs and occupational therapists in particular, to take on ever more generic roles.

From conversations with colleagues around the country, it also appears that occupational therapists may be being used to plug the gaps in an NHS that is straining under the pressure of this cost saving and national staff shortage. I am a strong advocate of multidisciplinary working, but that is not about letting go of core skills.

is a valued, complex intervention with routes in occupational science.

There are a growing number of resources, with the latest being the Royal College of Occupational Therapy report ‘Live not Exist’ and we need more reports like this. But we as individual occupational therapists need to take a stand; take ownership of our professional language, use the evidence and ensure we have occupation at the heart of our practice.

We must now draw a line in the sand, marshal our arguments and proclaim, we are not generic workers.

Follow Steve on Twitter @OT_Explorer

Let me shout loudly from the rooftops that occupational therapy

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ProductFocus Focus Do you have an innovative product you think we should feature?

If so, get in touch! Contact us at colette@2apublishing.co.uk

1 Dechoker 0330 223 1320 |

1

dechokeruk.com The Dechoker is a simple, manually operated device used to help remove something obstructing a persons airway. In a choking emergency, time is obviously of the essence and having this device to hand could save someone’s life because breathing is mandatory. esearch from the Office of National Statistics has shown that 91% of people who die from choking are over the age of 45, with the number rising significantly in those o er the age of 60. Adults and children who struggle with swallowing are at a higher risk of choking and owning this device could be a genuine lifesaver.

2 2 Varilite™

Wheelchair Cushions 01179 666 761 | besrehab.net Varilite™ cushions provide wheelchair users with superior pressure distribution and comfort. The patented air-foam flotation technology featured in the cushions makes them hard to beat. By using both air and foam, Varilite™ cushions last longer and perform better than products that rely on air or foam alone.

Varilite™ cushions come with different options of adjustable valves which allow the cushion to mould to the user’s shape, providing the full-contact support that is essential for maintaining tissue integrity.

In an independent study, Varilite™ cushions were subjected to a repetitive load test of 200,000 cycles to simulate a lifetime of use. Varilite™ cushions performed better, even when fatigued, than the brand new highresilience foam cushions they were compared with.

The ease of maintenance and durability of the Varilite™ range is part of what makes the cushions so popular ith heelchair users. he pro en clinical benefits and patented technology of Varilite™ cushions are what makes them top-of-the-range.

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27/10/2017 09:48

New Foldable

3 Stretcher

01869 365500 | chilterninvadex.co.uk

3

The TRT16 is a folding shower stretcher, trolley and changing table which is convenient for daily and occasional use. The stretcher comprises a wheeled base with lockable castors and height adjustment that allows three height choices of 700, 800 and 900mm. It is constructed from stainless steel with white anti-bacterial powder coating for easy cleaning. Assembly is simple and when not in use it can easily be folded and stored away to minimise storage space. The TRT16 comes with a choice of two top sections; mesh fabric with lift points to enable connection to an overhead or pool hoist, this allows a supine transfer in and out of swimming pools; or grey vinyl fabric with drainage holes and is intended solely for use on the wheeled base and allows a showering or changing function to the freestanding moveable base section. Additional padded side support rails are available upon request. Get in touch for a free, no obligation survey or to request a full brochure.

New Neptune 2 4 The 0845 605 66 88 (option 4) | jcmseating.co.uk

4

JCM Seating and Sunrise Medical are proud to announce the all new Neptune 2 seating system. Designed from the ground up with eye catching appeal, modularity and ease of use at the forefront, the Neptune 2 is perfectly placed to meet the requirements of the user with mild to moderate postural needs. Strong and durable, with its 100% modular design, the Neptune 2 is ideally suited to meet the changing needs of the user, as ell as reconfiguring when the time for re-issue comes along. You can see the Neptune 2 in action on stand K50 at the Occupational Therapy Show where they will be delighted to take you through its features.

Clothing 5 Meltemi 01603 731330 | meltemi.co.uk

5

At Meltemi they design, manufacture and sell a wide range of healthcare garments including clothing for occupational therapists so, whether you prefer to wear tunics or polo shirts and want a choice of healthcare styles to choose from, they can help.

The Flexi-Stretch tunics come in a choice of navy, bottle or burgundy trim and have action back pleats for ease of movement. Alternatively, they also offer a choice of unisex polo shirts with contrast detail to collar and cuffs or a contrast polo shirt with block colour collar and side. Add to this a choice of fi e female and t o male healthcare trouser options and you have all your OT garment requirements covered.

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Product Focus

Plus 6 MultiCare 0800 373702 | recliners.org.uk

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The OT Show 2017 features the introduction of the MultiCare Plus chair designed and manufactured at Recliners. The chair has been carefully produced to meet the user requirements of versatility and adaptability along with ease of patient transfer and comfort. Furthermore, it provides a height adjustable footplate, a range of pressure care options and interchangeable back and head support. With the adjustable arms the chair will allow a range of seat widths. As a company Recliners has been well supported by occupational therapists in the concept of the MultiCare Plus chair product coupled with many years of developing and manufacturing reclining and porter style chairs for use in the healthcare, residential and domestic market.

Visit stand F34 at the OT Show and try the MultiCare Plus Chair and the latest range of rise and recline chairs with pressure care products.

Trio+ 7 Stiltz Homelift 0808 278 8883 | stiltz.co.uk

7

Stiltz Lifts will showcase its new spacious, luxury wheelchair-friendly lift to the OT industry at The Occupational Therapy Show at the NEC Birmingham in November. The Trio+ HomeLift is the new ground-breaking addition to the Stiltz range of unique domestic lifts which has been designed to accommodate a full-sized wheelchair or comfortably carry up to three passengers.

The new Trio lift has undergone extensive testing and will fully comply with BS 5900:2012 Powered Homelifts along with being BS EN 81-41 accredited.

There is the option of an automatic door available to allow for ease of entering and exiting the lift car and a gently-angled ramp for easier wheelchair le el access. he car body has also been specifically designed for wheelchair users with wider entry and exit points. The overall footprint is just 1040mm x 1378mm.

As with all Stiltz HomeLifts, the new product can be installed in less than a day with no load bearing walls or hydraulics required. The car of the Trio+ is designed in a stylish warm grey aluminium casing with a clear body, which helps it blend seamlessly into customers’ homes. The lift plugs straight into a normal domestic power socket using minimal po er as it tra els uietly bet een floors on self-supporting rails which are discreetly recessed between the slightly wider entrance/exit.

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New

F oldab le S tretcher

N ew for 2 0 1 7 Chiltern Invadex ( U K ) proudly introduce the TR T1 6 The TR T1 6 is a Folding Shower Stretcher, Trolley, and Changing Table which is convenient for daily and occasional use.

The stretcher comprises a wheeled base with lockable castors and height adjustment that allows three height choices of 700, 800, and 900mm It is constructed from stainless steel with white anti bacterial power coating for easy cleaning.

Assembly is simple and when not in use can easily be folded and stored away to minimise storage space.

* tem shown with mesh fabric top

Comes with a choice of two top sections.

Mesh fabric with lift points to enable connection to a overhead or pool hoist this allows a supine transfer in and out of swimming pools.

G rey Vinyl fabric with drainage holes and is intended solely for use on the wheeled base and allows a showering or changing function to the freestanding moveable base section. Additional padded side support rails are available upon request.

New

AquaMaster A13 Bariatric Shower Commode Chair

hiltern nvade ( ) are also proud to introduce the , a bariatric version of the popular attendant propelled shower chair, redesigned for the requirements of bariatric clients. art of the qua aster shower chair range it features a rigid one piece frame with interchangeable seat, backrest, arm and footrest options.

Pressure relief padding as Reinforced one standard piece frame (other options available)

Large braked castors Increased seating dimension of 790mm x 550mm (31� x 21.5�)

Footplates with heel straps 55 stone (349kg) SWL

Seat, backrest padding and armrest pads are manufactured with the use of pressure relief foam to aid comfort when seated at no additional cost (a vinyl backrest fabric can be supplied if the pad is not required) Heavy duty twin wheeled castors and heel straps fitted to each removable and height adjustable footplate help to aid both user and care teams to provide comfort and security when in use, a full length close cell foam grip allows the chair to be manoeuvred comfortably when in use.

To arrange for a free, no obligation survey or request a full brochure, please call or email our Customer Service Department Call: 01869 365500 (Opt 1) Email: sales@chilterninvadex.co.uk Visit: www.chilterninvadex.co.uk

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BodiTrak Pressure Mapping Made Easy and Affordable Integrate BodiTrak into your assessments at a competitive price Plug and play – electronics integrated into the mat

Simple to use – take readings in seconds

Wifi independant monitoring option

Available in a range of sizes – from seat to bed

For a free demonstration of the BodiTrak system get in touch: marketing@bescorporate.net

Contact BES Rehab Ltd on 01179 666 761 or email marketing@bescorporate.net

FS644625

© 2017 BES Rehab Ltd EOE

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30/10/2017 15:06

Powering through for The Prince’s Trust

Read the full interview online at ot-magazine.co.uk

Earlier this year, we featured Katie Peers, an OT who was attempting an almighty cycling challenge to raise money for The Prince’s Trust. Sponsored by specialist seating company CareFlex, Katie completed the Deloitte Ride Across Britain from Land’s End to John O’Groats and raised over £3,000 for The Prince’s Trust. Here, Katie shares a glimpse into the physical and emotional rollercoaster that she experienced over a wet and windy nine days across the country.

How did you feel after the first day?

Day one of my journey started at 5:30am on a Saturday morning and I was already sleep deprived having slept in a tent under stormy skies. I was super excited to start, but terrified at the same time. I felt really pleased to ha e completed the first of nine days, 105 miles from Land’s End in Cornwall to Okehampton in Devon, with 8,232ft of climbing done. Meeting the CareFlex team just outside Okehampton was a real morale boost.

Did you have a breaking point each day?

Each day brought its own challenges.

They varied in intensity and in cause, with variants including weather, terrain, hilly routes, my legs - at times they felt like they were going to pop under the pressure of continually cycling - and my mind, getting in and staying in ‘the zone’, to survive the challenge!

Something I will savour forever is how all the Ride Across Britain riders (RABers) came together and helped each other, be it a second pair of hands to fix a puncture, or a morale boosting companion for a section of the route.

What kept you going?

I honestly don’t know! I was so overwhelmed at times that I was just focusing on counting my breaths whilst counting down the miles to the next pit stop. During those moments of doubt, I did remind myself what and who I was doing this charity event for, that the challenge for me would soon be over, but the challenge for people receiving help from the Prince’s Trust was a much bigger one.

What was the best thing about the cycle?

The best thing by far was the ‘RAB bubble’ – the new friendships made, the camaraderie along the way from strangers, the relentless support and motivation from the various different crew members. It goes without saying that crossing the finish line in ohn O roats as also something quite indescribable and rather overwhelming.

How much money did you raise?

I raised over £3,000 for The Princes Trust. I am incredibly grateful to all of my sponsors, family, friends, friend-offriends, neighbours, colleagues and people I’d never even met! Every new donation gave me a little kick of energy and motivation to keep going.

I was extremely proud when CareFlex became my major sponsor for the event – they really got behind me, not only did they make a huge contribution to my fundraising, but they also helped me with my on-going fundraising and kept in contact to find out ho my training as going through the year and met me out on the route on day one. CareFlex may not ever realise how much their support meant to me – for me to have achieved this challenge would have been so much harder without their support and enthusiasm. I can’t thank them enough.

If you would like to make a donation please go to: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/katiepeers

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30/10/2017 15:06

A day in the life

her t a e H About

A day in . . f o e f i l the r e h t a He Scott

ce and sin ng in u o alified and y cott u ith children hair of the r e h eat the C ’s r ed has o S. Heather is oung People H N d n e ently a Y c h t e n r e in r d d m an people PF-SS (Chil m Foru gion CY n) Autis F London re ing RCOT io t c e S P t Y tur s C c li u e e-str e Specia nted for th s on ‘R ased practic ie r e s prese e b r u e t c c is n le e d g ait an rt evid evenin ds. suppo fi e- ee in Lee ays to e w h t h n t e g a r ce p in fe t n e e o c hilst m t the CYPF ting a presen

What is your current role?

I am the Clinical Lead Occupational Therapist at the Hackney ARK, which is a Child Development Centre, part of Homerton University Hospital. I manage the Integrated Community Occupational Therapy Team, am the lead OT for autism and part of the ASD diagnostic team. The OT service is fully integrated providing health and social care OT as well as traded services to schools. My role is split between service development, management and clinical work.

Describe a typical day I have a very varied day and no two days are the same but they are always busy! Every day I am engaged in MDT working at a service and/or child level. For example, I attend a weekly multi-agency referrals meeting, EHCP meetings and meet with leads of other therapy services. Alongside a clinical psychologist I facilitate well attended monthly workshops for parents of young people with autism. The workshops are a mixture of us sharing information with families and using occupational performance strategies to facilitate problem solving. I have a mixed caseload, including working with

Each month .. ..

.we talk to occupatio a different to see wh nal therapist at is for them a typical day a little mo and explain re about their role.

The most rewarding part of the job is when parents or young people feedback that goals have been achieved

example, the wait for re-housing. There are a lot of competing demands and limited time. Trying to keep sight of a long-term vision, prioritise what’s most important (in the long as well as the short-term) and identify how we can be most effecti e can be difficult.

What is the best part of your job? children who have physical disabilities, autism and DCD. I am working with a child recently diagnosed with autism ho has identified self-care goals and have been supporting her to understand her sensory modulation difficulties as part of this inter ention.

Each week I am involved in service development work. Currently I am working with a paediatrician to formalise a DCD diagnostic pathway. In addition to this, there are other duties such as leading the team meetings, facilitating CPD sessions, supervision and recruitment.

What is the hardest part of your job? he most difficult part of the role is dealing with systems or situations that are outside of my control but are having a huge impact on children’s participation and wellbeing; for

The most rewarding part of the job is when parents or young people feedback that goals have been achieved and how intervention impacted on how the child is able to participate and have fun. For example, we had very positive feedback from MDT workshops and groups run for children who are selective eaters. It’s also exciting to be able to constantly learn - both from looking at evidence, from the MDT, as well as from listening to the children and families, and then being able to implement this into changes to the service. I also feel privileged to have had opportunities to share special moments with children like seeing a child with cerebral palsy figuring out that they can acti ate the toy using a switch. The MDT within the ARK are a great team to work with and the OTs are hardworking, knowledgeable and kind, which is also a big part of why I enjoy my job. www.

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30/10/2017 12:12

“The Motability Scheme has made it possible for us to go out as a family and do all the things we enjoy.”

Emma

Making a difference #worthtalkingabout

Do you have clients that could be eligible to join the Motability Scheme?

Sign up today for your free information pack motability.org.uk/ot17 quote OT17

What is the Motability Scheme?

The Motability Scheme enables disabled people to use their government-funded mobility allowance to lease a new car, scooter or powered wheelchair.

Carers and family members can drive on behalf of the disabled person.

How Motability can help Motability is a national charity which oversees the Motability Scheme and may be able to provide charitable grants to disabled people. We provide charitable grants for: • Car adaptations which help make travelling as comfortable and safe as possible

What’s included on the Motability Scheme?

• Insurance • Breakdown assistance • Servicing and repairs • Tyres and battery replacement

Find out more information Do you have clients that could be eligible to join the Motability Scheme? Visit motability.org.uk to find information and resources to help you advise disabled people and their families about: • The Motability Scheme • PIP and Motability • Cars on the Motability Scheme

• Vehicle Advance Payments for larger, more expensive vehicles

• Scooters and Powered Wheelchairs on the Motability Scheme

• Driving lessons, to ensure disabled people have access to driving tuition in specially adapted cars

• Car adaptations available

Today, over 600,000 disabled people and their families benefit from the freedom and independence provided through the Motability Scheme, like Emma, who was able to apply to Motability for a charitable grant which paid towards the advance payment for a Motability vehicle that met her needs.

Visit motability.org.uk/ot17 or call 0300 123 3367 and quote OT17 for your free information pack.

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• Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles on the Motability Scheme, these enable the disabled person to travel as a passenger whilst seated in their wheelchair You can also sign up to our newsletter, Motability Matters, which is designed for healthcare professionals, to keep you informed of the latest news and updates regarding the Motability Scheme.

Motability is a Registered Charity in England and Wales (No.299745) and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Reference No.736309). The Motability Scheme is operated by Motability Operations Limited under contract to Motability. Motability Operations Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Reference No.735390).

30/10/2017 17/10/2017 15:06 14:37

Walking football Regardless of age, race, background or mental health, football often ranks as one of the most meaningful occupations for a large percentage of the population.

Rembering the beautiful game S

teeped in history, culture and tradition, Britain’s love affair with the beautiful game has stood the test of time. Often an interest picked up in childhood and carried through to adulthood, it is an interest many hold close to their hearts throughout their lives.

A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or dementia can often skew our meaningful occupations and impact our functioning, leading to a loss of the occupations that make us part of who we are.

But Leyton Orient Football Club are tirelessly working to ensure every fan can still access and enjoy the sport, regardless of how many adaptations it takes.

A football coach to trade, Head of Health and Wellbeing at Leyton Orient Football Club Trust Phill Smith has now turned his hand to restoring football’s true community values, helping fans living with dementia continue to enjoy supporting their club.

“We have a few programmes we run with regards to dementia and sport and memory,” began Phill, who runs al ing football sessions at o er fifties and over sixties levels.

“The walking football programme has been growing and we’ve recently

The walking football programme has been growing and we’ve recently piloted a project using Tagtiv8 equipment

piloted a project using Tagtiv8 equipment that looks at the cognitive and physical activity of people living with dementia and seeing if it impacts them or slows down the degeneration process.

“But the programme has been running

for two and a half years and has been really successful. We have a range of participants but one chap who is living with dementia is a regular and for him it has been very impactful - it has really helped him release some frustrations,” Phill added.

The inclusive sessions run in conjunction with associated local health services including input from occupational therapists to monitor and aid in areas such as falls prevention.

He said: “We have over 100 members now and we have three groups, two at o er fifties and one o er sixties because the older ones don’t want

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Walking football

to play against the younger ones because there is still a difference in pace.

“We’ve linked in with some of the OT services and it has made a great impact. It’s not only improving their physical, but also their mental health and their social lives.

“They’re coming out and socialising.

They’ll get together after a session and get to know each other so there are many positive aspects of it. Our sessions are very inclusive - it doesn’t matter if you’ve played before or not and it’s about getting together and active, not winning or losing so it’s a really nice ethos we have,” smiled Phill.

Linking up with local services and mental health project Coping Through Football, Phill also sets out six health awareness matchdays a year, dedicating one to mental health and dementia which this year took place during eyton s clash ith acclesfield Town in October.

As part of the project, people living with dementia and their carers are welcomed to the ground’s health hub which acts as a safe and comfortable base for the day.

He said: “We want to support people in continuing to access matches and stay within the local community.

“We gave out free tickets to people living with dementia and their carers, and hosted them in the hub in our east stand where they can enjoy a nice, warm, safe and comfortable place prematch, at half time and after the game.

It allows them to be in the stadium but away from everything else, so it is a real matchday experience.

“We’d like to develop a befriending service, so carers can drop off their clients or family members to the

We want to support people in continuing accessing matches and stay within the local community.

stadium and then other fans would be with them during the match before dropping them back off at the meeting point, so it is to keep people with dementia coming along to matches,” Phill added.

One OT involved in the outreach and work carried out by Leyton Orient Trust is Barbara Armstrong, who is also part of the Coping Through Football scheme.

“Leyton Orient’s work in the community and in building awareness is brilliant,” commented Waltham Forest ICD’s joint

OT and social inclusion lead Barbara.

“They provided dementia training for the stewards and have a hub at the ground to host particular groups so that day we had carers and people with dementia come along.

“They got free tickets and the hub gave them a settled and calming place to go before the game for a cup of tea and a biscuit and then at half time they can go back and sit quietly which is comforting for them, and if they don’t ant to go bac outside that s fine.

Leyton Orient have taken great steps to ensure people with Alzheimer’s or dementia are still part of the football community,” enthused Barbara.

“And then the walking football from an OT perspective can be brilliant for falls prevention work and building coordination.

“It’s a fantastic initiative,” she added.

For more details please visit: leytonorienttrust.org.uk

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27/10/2017 15:32

g n i t e l i o t l u f Help solutions

“The Closomat is the most wonderful thing of all the living aids we have had added to our home, it’s beautiful! I now don’t have to get my wife to help me.”

Karl van Gool, Halesowen

Quality • Service • Heritage www.clos-o-mat.com Tel: 0800 374 076 Email: info@clos-o-mat.com ads_OT_Iss19.indd 29

30/10/2017 15:06

dementia bathrooms

Creating a dementia-friendly

bathroom Impey share their top five tips for designing a bathroom suitable for people who are living with dementia.

A

s a space which is used daily, it’s important that the bathroom is a nonthreatening environment for those with dementia. Taking into account the mental and physical challenges brought on by dementia, it’s important to consider the safety, security and of course dignity of the individual who will be using the bathroom.

Due to the progressive nature of dementia, it is also imperative to plan for future needs as well as present circumstances, as adaptations done in the later stages of dementia can be counterproductive causing apprehension, confusion or distress.

Bearing in mind the stage at which the resident’s dementia has been diagnosed, ideally, adaptations should be carried out directly after an earlystage diagnosis.

Those with later stage dementia may not react ell to or benefit from significant refurbishments as the sudden alteration of surroundings can cause undue stress and possible disorientation.

A dementia-friendly bathroom adaptation would typically include the following:

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1

Falls Prevention

Importantly, government statistics indicate that those with dementia are twice as likely to fall as others within the same age group, making falls prevention a key focus within bathroom adaptations.

Installation of a level access wetroom or low-level showering area reduces trip hazards within the wet areas of the room and helps to prevent slips and falls.

If a wetroom isn’t appropriate for the location, a low-level shower tray with slip-resistant surface is a safe alternative. It’s best to avoid coarse, paint-on slip resistant surfaces or harshly textured shower trays, as the unexpected sensation can be uncomfortable and distressing to those with dementia. One way in which to make an informed shower tray choice is to assess the slip resistance of the tray base. Shower trays which have been accurately tested for slip resistance will carry a DIN 51097 rating ha ing been officially e aluated for slip resistance in barefoot conditions using soapy water as a contaminant. Impey’s ultra-thin ‘Mantis’ shower tray has the lowest step-height on the mar et at mm and is certified as DIN 51097 Class B.

lain colour slip resistant flooring is important as a traditional spec led slip resistant flooring can be misinterpreted by a person with dementia as an area which needs cleaning; leading to a slip, fall or frustration

2

Colour Contrast

Effective colour contrast is a fundamental factor in dementiafriendly design. In the bathroom, a selection of well-placed grab rails which contrast vividly with the colour of the walls, enables easy visual identification and can help a dementia patient negotiate their way around the bathroom effectively; in turn minimising the potential for slips or falls.

Simple additions like contrasting toilet seats, toothbrush holders and to els ma e for easy identification and remove uncertainty or panic within the bathroom environment.

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26/10/2017 16:43

dementia bathrooms reflections in the mirrored surface can be cause for concern to a dementia patient.

Colour contrast shower seats like Impey’s Slimfold wall-mounted shower seat is easily identified and can pro ide a much needed and comfortable seating option for shower areas and wetrooms.

If pumped drainage is required, the pump should be sited where it s unreachable either boxed in or located in an adjacent room. It is possible to specify waste water pumps with reduced noise output, which can be beneficial to dementia patients who can be disconcerted by sudden or unexpected noises.

TOP

TIPS

3

Mirrors and Reflective Surfaces

Some people with dementia can lose the ability to recognise their o n reflection and may be alarmed by seeing themselves in a mirror or reflecti e surface. deally, mirrors should be removable or have the option to be covered, to avoid undue distress.

The same goes for objects which may ha e a reflecti e surface. or example, chrome towel rails can be replaced ith anti-scald radiators, and reflecti e shower screens can be replaced with non-reflecti e or frosted types.

4

Safety When Showering An electric shower, with scaldprevention thermostatic controls is the preferred option for dementiafriendly bathrooms. Many inclusive showers have colour contrast buttons to enable ease of use. ixer sho ers are not recommended because the

As many dementia patients become less a are of their surroundings, flood pre ention is a significant issue. he ne hale ireless flood-pre ention shower and pump combination, a ailable from mpey has inbuilt floodprotection measures specifically, if the pump is accidentally switched off, the shower cannot be operated.

5

Bathroom Lighting

Appropriate lighting is incredibly important within a dementiafriendly bathroom adaptation, as poor lighting can cause nervousness, apprehension or fear, leading to slips or falls.

Even and consistent lighting, which eliminates areas of shadow or pools of darkness, will give a sense of greater safety. or example, fluorescent strip lighting can be replaced with evenly spaced recessed moisture-resistant lighting. Numerous adjustable light sources are preferential to fewer very bright ones; helping to minimise glare and create increased light levels simultaneously.

For further information about the comprehensive range of bathroom adaptation products available from Impey, including wetroom and showering solutions for domestic and healthcare settings, visit impeyshowers.com/care

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30/10/2017 16:11

Designed to make everyday transfer tasks easier The new Sara® Flex standing and raising aid • Optimised patient support Promotes comfort and security throughout and at the completion of the sit-to-stand movement

• Easy to use with enhanced manoeuvrability Delivers enhanced manoeuvrability and requires no adjustment, ensuring ease of use

• Comprehensive patient coverage Enables one caregiver to perform sit-to-stand tasks for a wide range of patients in the Carl mobility spectrum* Flexible silicone leg support * For further information telephone 08457 342000

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www.arjohuntleigh.co.uk/saraflex

30/10/2017 15:07

p a y r e h DEMENTIA-FRIENDLY t

t e

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30/10/2017 11:41

p a y r e h DEMENTIA-FRIENDLY t

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6 h s t 8 r i i 9 e h 1 w writ ss? T d by roce ry e p o d ot n m fou me t is n i arity sson in tia. h e c v a n lie agnu eme ngful ife is u be ugh? or L r Sally M o had d i o f n y t a s i e o l e h o with Play oadcast amie w lly m hy d sed en reness W sona her’s life M br r , r a u e d e al p n t a th ot eing lack of awy in gener y r mo ered tha b er m g else. e h h f e l a v o a in ov erap erap re is rson disco nyth impr The music th usic th rapy a pe Sally helped e than a p r u m o e t t c e d ic or abou urologi music th ple s er, frien s mus ease m o e e p b a s n lth s h m dis and ticular. A ied Hea nfident help the y me . It even ’ to l e i t i l r m s l co a ntia ir fa web ctive in p of the A can be The t for the th deme sic dete s could hen s e on u ,O re es w such lis wi s s c n i y i ‘m d n g e a v n l o a g r n i i p e v ic se ns ss sa to b nt li ion atio mus emorie rofe ess miss organis awaren patie on how ongs or ing m v m k i l o c c a e s e h f r c b t o o i i h a t g d k w hic adv who ing n an , brin e lac out note or those work oma. Th ducatio t h find g i fe hr life f he r as C oblem o hit t ce daily r p n . . is a enha ementia g.uk cacy r d t effi o . o h t e n i f i w rl listfo play

ife l r fo t s i l y Pla

Music 34

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THERAPY

If you would like to know more about music therapy and other arts therapies please contact Chroma UK on 0330 440 1838 or visit wearechroma.com.

-magazine.co.uk

30/10/2017 12:15

35_ot_magazine_nov_dec_17_X.pdf

1

30/10/2017

17:00

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VISIT

If you’re in the market for a new OT job then get on to our website. We’ve got all the latest OT jobs in our Careers section.

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30/10/2017 16:22

ProductFocus Do you have an innovative product you think we should feature?

If so, get in touch! Contact us at colette@2apublishing.co.uk

1

1 Sensoryline

Weighted Gilets

0114 2293434 | sensorykraft.co.uk Introducing the new range of Sensoryline weighted gilets developed by therapists to offer a stylish and colourful alternative. Manufactured in the UK the range is available in a selection of colours and suitable for children and adults alike.

The deep pressure provided by weighted products has a ‘calming and grounding’ effect on the body’s nervous system.

Weighted products are commonly recommended by therapists for transitional periods and classrooms to increase attention span and reduce anxieties often seen in children with autism, ADHD, sensory and learning difficulties.

These specially-adapted gilets have been carefully designed to appear like ordinary clothing. A stylish design and colour make these an attractive clothing choice, hilst the deep pressure benefits of the in-built technology is a secret to anyone but the wearer. The gilet can be worn and enjoyed anywhere, anytime.

Protection 2 Head 01454 285071 | gelovationseurope.com Gel Ovations Europe are proud to be appointed the UK Distributor of the Ribcap range of fashionable, nonstigmatising soft head protection. All people regardless of age and ability can suffer from unexpected head injuries and the Ribcap range of head protection offers a unique solution. All caps are lightweight, foldable and comfortable to wear. There are many styles and colours to choose from including beanies, baseball caps and child styles. All styles are 100% washable and chin straps are also available on many styles.

Gel Ovations will be displaying the complete range of the Ribcap products at November’s OT Show on stand F60.

www.

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27/10/2017 15:33

ProductFocus 3 Sara Flex

3

Standing and Raising Aid 01582 745700 | arjohuntleigh. co.uk The Sara Flex is a brand new standing and raising aid that is designed to make every day transfer and care tasks easier. It equips one caregiver with the ability to position a patient from a seated to a safe, secure and comfortable standing position in one ergonomic movement.

It’s the details that make every following transfer, whether it be to a wheelchair, the toilet, a shower chair or early mobilisation following surgery, a positive experience.

One no el feature is the flexible silicone leg support that requires no adjustment and caters for the majority of patients between 7stone and 31stone, from 4’8” up to 6’4”. The lifting action of Sara Flex facilitates an ergonomic forward mo ement hich combines ith the flexible leg support to deliver a comfortable, natural sit to stand action.

You can try the new Sara Flex on stand L83 at the OT Show.

4 New Pill

Dispensers

01799 550979 | pivotell.co.uk Pivotell’s new pill dispensers now incorporate BioCote, a premium silver ion technology that is introduced during the manufacturing stage to provide the ultimate protection against harmful microbes such as bacteria, mould and even viruses.

When manufactured into products and materials, BioCote antimicrobial technology creates surfaces upon which microbes cannot survive.

It reduces bacteria and mould by up to 99.99% and even antibiotic resistant strains of bacteria like MRSA, E.coli, Salmonella and Candida auris are eliminated. It has even been proven to deacti ate the influen a irus and BioCote technology will last for the functional lifetime of any product it is integrated into.

This ensures that the dispenser is inherently more hygienic and removes the concern of cross contamination. Crucially, the devices are now easier to keep hygienically clean for the patients, their family and visiting carers, plus pharmacists and their staff who are all regularly handling the device.

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27/10/2017 15:33

ProductFocus 5 Ultralite

Finger Yokes

0800 255 0498 | abilitysuperstore.com hese finger yo es can assist those ho ha e dexterity issues or are reco ering from an in ury to their fingers. sed singularly or in pairs they help to stabilise the fore finger and can be used hen using a pen, brush, cutlery and other e eryday items that re uire more finger stability. he ltralite also ensures no strain is placed on the finger, ma ing it comfortable to use.

6

6 Walton Commode 01332 810504 | gordonellis.com he brand ne alton ommode is ordon llis most discreet commode chair yet. he stylish ea e design ma es it loo ust li e a regular chair, ith seat pad and cushion co er designs helping it blend in ith the home. eight-ad ustable legs and a strong plastic and aluminium construction ma e it a secure and stable commode, ith the ideal seat height for the user. eaturing the Burton an ith loc and lift lid for the easiest and cleanest disposal, it can hold up to litres. ailable ith either a bro n or hite ea e, it suits a range of homes and styles.

Cooking 6 Stay Cut Resistant

Glove

0845 140 5555 | nisbets.co.uk ndependence in the itchen can be sa ed ith this cut resistant glo e. uitable for those ho ha e dexterity issues, hands are protected hen cutting or preparing food due to the yneema technology of the nitted glo e.

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-maga ine.co.u

30/10/2017 11:44

Introducing the UTS Suitable for grade I-IV pressure care

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30/10/2017 15:19

Paul Aitken

Words by Paul Aitken

EVERYONE IS ON

DRU GS D

rugs are a particularly broad and contentious social issue which divides people, families and societies. It is not possible to deal with the whole subject here, so we’ll just explore the concept and show that – on some levels of analysis – we’re all addicted to them.

Some drugs are more socially tolerable than others, many are even prescribed or openly advertised. It seems as

though we have a problem – in our supposedly empirically minded society – talking about drugs, even within the family. An important thing to remember is that you might be under the influence of, or e en actually consuming, drugs as you read this. It is safe to say that if you have had a cigarette in the last two to four days or an alcoholic beverage or a coffee in the last day, you are on drugs – congratulations.

Beyond these socially sanctioned

drugs, The Guardian reported that one in three have tried illegal drugs while one in fi e ta e them acti ely. ny medications you are on – prescribed or purchased over the counter – can be considered drugs as well, particularly given the fact that there are an estimated 1.5 million people addicted to these substances in the UK. You may be on anti-depressants, since prescription rates are always on the rise – having doubled in England in the last ten years. 

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30/10/2017 12:17

Paul Aitken I had a discussion with Jim Mills, Professor of History at University of Strathclyde, who researches the social history of drugs and narcotics.

“The word ‘drug’ is a slippery concept,” he tells me.

The word appeared in the title of the “Dangerous Drugs Act” of 1920 in the UK, which was introduced to control heroin, morphine and cocaine. In the US, it is applied more widely for medicines and pharmaceuticals as well as illicit substances. This is why we have drug stores as well as the ‘War on Drugs’.

The looseness of our conceptualisation of drugs is part of the problem. Terence McKenna – a writer and speaker who dabbled extensively with psychedelics sums the issue up as such: “Language... casts nets against these other gulfs and comes away with different kinds of maps. But you cannot put much trust into these maps unless you’ve carried out a thorough analysis of language [itself].”

He argues that once you have analysed the language behind your conception you use then you are even less likely to put much trust in the maps drawn from it, because, “the thinness of the web on which it is all hung will be readily apparent.”

In terms of socially sanctioned drugs, it is common for people to consume between 50-200 milligrams of caffeine in a day, whilst 20 grams – taken orally – could kill you. Nicotine - the active aspect of tobacco – is consumed in milligrams as well, up to 1.5mg per hit, depending on the cigarette. Ethanol, the type of alcohol in the beverages we consume seems much more interesting, and has been part of our culture for a long time.

Imagine you drank a litre of wine which was 10% ethanol. A litre of wine contains 78 grams of ethanol.

You might be pretty drunk after a litre of wine – or four large glasses. You might be sick or have trouble walking, or have a few apologies to make the following day. For the purposes of comparison – in terms of weight – this is the equivalent of drinking almost

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It is common for people to consume between 50-200 milligrams of caffeine in a day four times the amount of coffee that would be necessary to kill you, smoking almost 120,000 strong cigarettes, or taking 78 grams of cocaine. Compared to any other drug on the market – legal or otherwise – ethanol seems very weak. It takes a lot of the stuff to cause an effect.

Despite that, over 80% of the adult population of the UK drink. We are allowed these drugs and the majority of adults use them. Would people take illicit drugs if they were legal?

Some people – like McKenna, even argue that there is no difference between drugs and food. You might put one type of mushroom on your pizza and use the other one to initiate a six-hour experience of being transported to another dimension, whilst things like sugar can be very addictive. I quizzed Professor Mills on the subject, who said “psychoactive

food” might be a better term, since the nutritional value of food precludes it, or at least separates it from being a drug in the traditional sense. That being said, he reminds me that all of these conceptual framing devices are historical constructs. In common parlance, we often hear people referring to external experiences as drugs, sex, gambling, stealing, hoarding, social media, you name it.

One of the reasons people take illicit drugs according to the psychologist Jordan Peterson is because “it feels good”. He argues that a better question might be “why aren’t people taking drugs all of the time?” Drugs are not the only things that make us feel good, but they give us what we need very quickly, without us having to do much work.

A lot of drugs, be they physical or otherwise, take effect by causing a release of dopamine. If you see a romantic interest and they smile at you, you feel good – that’s a dopamine hit. ou e got a ne notification on your social media site – that’s a dopamine hit. A line of cocaine, a pipe-

-magazine.co.uk

26/10/2017 16:46

Paul Aitken full of cannabis or a double-chocolate brownie - you better believe, that’s a dopamine hit.

When dopamine is released in the brain, the connections that were active immediately prior to the release are strengthened and reinforced. This makes them actually grow in the brain.

The brain areas active prior to the dopamine hit literally get bigger – this is the basis of connectionism, a very attractive psychological theory. This is why you want to see that person again, visit that social media site or engage in the activities surrounding the cocaine or the cannabis. The closer the events are to the hit, the more reinforced they are. Because these brain areas are bigger and more powerful, it is also painful to quit such stimulating activities.

Conquering a heroin habit or getting o er a lost lo e is a long difficult

process, the brain needs to physically readjust. It is worth noting that psychological and physiological pain are closely associated in the brain, in fact the same areas can be shown to be active when looking at photos of a recently lost love or in times of social alienation as when one is in physical pain. It is important to remember that this natural reward system is what motivates a huge percentage of human behaviour, it seems as though we have a choice of ways to activate it, some more socially and personally beneficial than others.

My favourite examination of drug use is that of Rat Park. Rat Park came about as part of Bruce Alexander’s exploration into the causal chain of drug addiction, positing that it isn’t the drug itself but the life surrounding it that led to its usage. Rats kept in isolation ith morphine fla oured

water and regular water would drink the morphine water until they died. In Rat Park, with recreation, other rats and space to do what rats do together, they barely touched the morphine. We are hard-wired to seek reward and to avoid pain. We take drugs because they are re arding. f e are being sufficiently rewarded by our lives, we don’t need to take drugs.

I think that modern society provides us with a lot of scope to become addicted.

We can get just about anything we want extremely quickly and it isn’t always immediately obvious what to do in order to achieve a stable state of contentment. What seems important to me is for individuals to have sovereignty over their own consciousness and how they alter it, or at least more information about how and why they are, or might do it.

Our supposedly scientifically minded society has a massive drug problem, with a great part of that problem being its lack of desire or ability to deal with the facts and be honest. And, like autism, intelligence and creativity – if you have been following my articles – e don t e en agree on a definition of the concept.

We should explore the concept of drugs more openly, on a personal level, within and between families and on a larger social level. We do not have a healthy relationship with drugs, particularly A line of in Scotland – which has the worst illegal cocaine, drug problem in the a pipe full of EU according to The cannabis or a Scotsman. As with most double-chocolate psychological issues, it seems that open, honest brownie - you communication, an better believe, aversion of judgement and a proactive approach that’s a to the solution of the dopamine hit. problem is necessary to move forwards.

People get their hits in different ways, if our society worked more like Rat Park, we might not need so many of them.

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-magazine.co.uk

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30/10/2017 12:17

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30/10/2017 15:16 14/03/2017 10:41

Living Well

What do we value most?

W

orking with patients to achieve goals and fulfil both physical and emotional needs is at the core of occupational therapy. Each patient will be different and will have a very different set of goals, values and needs that they will prioritise over other aspects of their lives. A recent survey has shown that one of the biggest factors for a person to feel they are living well is if they are getting good quality sleep. Job security, sexual satisfaction and connectedness to our communities also rank highly.

This survey was commissioned by supermarket giant Sainbury’s as they recently created a Living Well Index in conjunction with researchers from Oxford Economics and the National Centre for Social Research, to give them an insight into what Britons hold as key factors to living well in today’s society.

A nationally representative panel of 8,250 people were questioned about 60 different aspects of life, from finances and relationships, to sleep quality and health and the findings ha e been quite eye opening.

The average Briton has a ‘Living Well’ score of 62.2 out of 100. Those who have scored between 72 and 92 have been described as those living best and make up 20%, of the representative panel. By comparing the differences between the answers of the average Briton and those scoring in the top 20% they have uncovered some interesting insights into what we value highly in living well.

5 factors

that separate a typical person from those living best

1. A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP With a typical Briton only feeling rested after sleep ‘some of the time’, research has shown that sleep quality can explain 3.8 points of difference between their Living Well score and those who are living best in the top 20% of the index. For the typical Brit, improving their sleep to the level of someone at the top of the index would be equivalent to them having over four

times as much disposable income.

Sleep was the strongest indicator of a broader sense of wellbeing, controlling for other factors. The majority of those with the highest Living Well scores reported feeling well rested most of the time (60%), whilst over half of those in the bottom 20% of the index said that they rarely, or never, felt well rested.

60% of people surveyed felt well rested

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31/10/2017 14:23

Living Well 3. JOB SECURITY For the typical Briton, their perceived level of job security is another important differentiator to those living best, suggesting that the peace of mind this can bring contributes significantly to ho ell e feel e li e. mong or ing people, of those ith the highest index scores also experience a ery high degree of job security, almost twice the national a erage. O erall, ob security explained a . point gap bet een the typical or ing Brit and those li ing best.

2.SEX LIFE SATISFACTION Across the population as a whole, just over a third (35%) said they ere fairly or ery satisfied ith their sex li es.

Once again, these individuals were disproportionately li ely to be found at the top of the i ing ell ndex with almost two thirds (63%) of those at the top saying that they ere satisfied ith their sex life, t ice the national a erage.

4.HEALTH OF CLOSE RELATIVES For the typical person, worries about the health of close relations emerges as a significant barrier to li ing ery ell. he analysis found that worries over the health of close relations contributes a difference of . points between the typical Briton and those li ing best.

43%

of those with the highest index scores also experience a very high degree of job security

5.COMMUNITY CONNECTEDNESS Stronger connections with the people we share a community with is an important factor for those who experience the highest uality of life in Britain. he analysis suggests that by enhancing the uality and strength of these local relationships, people could li e happier, more satisfied li es. he typical person spea s to their neighbours once or t ice a month. But doing so as much as people in the top of the i ing ell ndex among hom almost spea to neighbours once or t ice a ee - could add . points to their ndex scores.

To take part in a simplified version of the Sainsbury’s Living Well Index, get a personal Living Well score and to receive simple suggestions for actions to improve it, you can go to about.sainsburys.co.uk/living-well-index. The methodology of the index is available on the Sainsbury’s website.

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-maga ine.co.u

26/10/2017 16:50

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30/10/2017 15:17

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

of ccupational HERAPY

T

NEUROLOGY

FORENSICS

ELebra CEL ting

1917 REHAB

PAEDIATRICS

EST.

IM CE PR N E OVIN G INDEpeND

19 17 Founding meeting for the National Society for the Promotion of Occupational Therapy takes place in New York

48

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19 25 Margaret Barr Fulton MBE is first OT to work in the UK at the Aberdeen Royal Asylum.. She subsequently served as chair of the SAOT and helped establish the WFOT.

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19 30

19 32

Dr Elizabeth Casson OBE founded the first school of occupational therapy in the UK

The Scottish Association of Occupational Therapists ((SAOT) (SAOT SAOT) is formed SAOT) 1936 – The Association of Occupational Therapists ((AOT) (AOT AOT) is formed for England, AOT) England, Wales and Northern Ireland

30/10/2017 11:49

to coincide with OT Week,� The OT Magazine takes a look back at how much the profession has achieved and grown over the past one hundred years�

his year, the worldwide occupational therapy community has celebrated the great centenary of their proud profession.

T

From humble beginnings to countless avenues for working OTs to venture into these days, it has remained an occupation that quietly goes about its business, helping people retain or regain what means the most to them.

The history and growth of the role has been long and illustrious since its advent in 1917, so to coincide with OT Week, The OT Magazine takes a look back at how much the profession has achieved and grown over the past 100 years.

for the development of OT both in the US and globally.

While our friends across the pond began trailblazing their work in 1917, it wasn’t until the twenties that it hit the British shores with Margaret Barr Fulton OBE becoming the first O to or in the UK, taking up a role at Aberdeen Royal Asylum in 1925, before later serving as a chair of SAOT from 1946-1949 playing a pivotal part in the establishment the WFOT. Five years following its British debut, the s first school of OT was founded by Doctor Elizabeth Casson OBE.

It all began where many great old and fabled tales do - New York.

Fast forward to 1948 and the creation of the National Health Service saw representatives from the SAOT and AOT negotiate pay and conditions for OTs in a turning point for the profession’s place in the healthcare system.

Consolation House in Clifton Springs, New York hosted the founding meeting for the National Society for the Promotion of Occupational Therapy on 15 March before holding a meeting later in September with just 26 attendees, laying the foundations

Barr ulton s gro ing influence continued to rise as she took up the position of president of the WFOT in 1952, seven years before the governing body was inducted into official relations ith the World Health Organisation, marking an incredible stage of

19 48

19 52

NHS is established.. The AOT and the SAOT have representatives negotiate pay and conditions for occupational therapists

World Federation of Occupational Therapists is founded.. Margaret Barr Fulton MBE is elected President

recognition for OT. Following global success, OT’s domestic presence and standing also continued to grow, with the formation of the BAOT signalling the merger of the AOT and SAOT and introduction of the British Journal in 1974 and HRH The Princess Royal taking up patronage of the College of Occupational Therapists in 1986, with the stratospheric rise continuing.

Here in The OT Magazine offices, e ould argue one of the greatest hallmarks of the profession came in 2014, as the first issue of he O aga ine dropped on our desks. We do admit though that we may be slightly biased.

And as we come full circle in its 100th year, Queen Elizabeth II granted the COT the royal stamp of approval with a Royal Charter to see the COT rebrand as the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT).

So happy birthday occupational therapy, here’s to the next 100 years and to bringing you more on your ever-expanding world.

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20 17

British Association of Occupational Therapists (BAOT) BAOT) is formed through a BAOT) merger of the AOT and the SAOT.. The British Journal of Occupational Therapy is launched

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HM The Queen grants the College of Occupational Therapists (COT) (COT) (COT COT) a Royal charter,, to become the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) (RCOT) (RCOT RCOT)

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30/10/2017 11:49

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afehands Holiday portfolio started in 2011 with the purchase of the New Mayfair Hotel on Blackpool’s New South Promenade. In February 2015, Safehands expanded its holiday portfolio with the opening of The Esplanade Hotel in Llandudno, North Wales. Both hotels are registered to provide a unique holiday experience with a specialist in-house care team capable of offering a complete package of care, from personal care to social and leisure support.

Both hotels occupy enviable positions with panoramic sea views of the great British coastline and both have undergone a complete renovation and refurbishment program costing over £7m, to accommodate various groups of people with accessible accommodation you can rely on.

Accessible Bedrooms All bedrooms are appointed to a very high standard, most have sea views and are beautifully decorated. All bedrooms are equipped with large specially designed shower rooms complete with grab rails and shower chairs, most of which have an electric profile bed ith built in sides. e ha e a selection of rooms with overhead tracking facilities, all rooms have accessible wardrobes, digital television and a hospitality tray. For extra reassurance all hotel rooms are fitted with an emergency call system linking rooms to reception and care staff.

Quality Dining We have our own in-house chefs with over 20 years’ experience in cooking traditional and authentic cuisine. Using local suppliers to provide us with fresh produce, you can be assured of good quality home cooked meals throughout your stay. We still offer waitress service so guests and carers can relax and enjoy a hearty English breakfast, traditional Sunday roast, not to mention our famous freshly battered fish and chips, along ith a selection of our homemade vegetarian options. Wheat-free, dairy free and other dietary requirement options are available, including a variety of delicious children’s meals.

Fantastic Entertainment We put a lot of time and energy into our fabulous live entertainment packages that feature every night from 8.15pm, along ith bingo and raffles to eep e eryone entertained. Throughout the year, the hotels will host a range of top stars from the nation’s favourite soaps, including Coronation Street and Emmerdale, along with our fantastic star tribute acts, so look out for our specially themed weekends, you won’t be disappointed.

Accessible Care Packages For guests travelling without their usual carers who want a holiday care package or those travelling with their own carers who may want to give their carers a break whilst away on holiday, Safehands is able to offer a variety of care solutions. Choose from a range of services from half When you mention hourly through to 24-hour packages.

OT magazine when booking All carers are fully trained to CQC and CSSIW standards, care is provided by our in-house team of carers. We are able to provide personal care along with social and leisure outings. Our care staff have a wealth of experience working with people with varying disabilities, underlining our commitment to valuing people as individuals. Ensuring our approach to care is deli ered in a dignified ay.

£25

OFF

Specialist Equipment To make your holiday as easy as possible, we will endeavour to supply, free of charge, specialised equipment you may require during your stay with us. All we ask is that you notify us when making your booking.

Fully Accessible Travel Solutions Pick-up and return transport is available from £25 per person. Call our sales team for a competitive quote. Travel in style on our fully accessible minibuses, which can pick you up from your door at the start of your holiday and return you at the end. With Safehands’ fully accessible transport service you can be sure of a relaxing start to your holiday experience.

For more info visit www.safehandsholidays.co.uk or call our reservations team on 0333 999 8888 www.

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Join our team in Lancashire I don’t need to tell you how rewarding a career in Occupational Therapy is, but working as part of a team with a progressive outlook, that also shares my passion for improving people’s lives, has really made a difference to me.

Our team is patient focused - everyone from senior managers to staff on the ground are all working towards the same goal.

From the day I joined Lancashire County Council I felt welcomed and supported, especially in developing new skills and knowledge. I’ve also been recognised for my hard work through their recognition scheme.

I moved to Lancashire 11 years ago and when I’m not in work I love discovering more about this beautiful county, there are so many places to visit whether you enjoy exploring the countryside, coastlines or the shops!

If this sounds like somewhere you’d like to work, why not join me?

Visit us at

www.lancashire.gov.uk/ jobs and click on careers in adult’s services to find out more.

Kate

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All the latest from the world of paediatrics

n o i t c e S OTs and family life aediatric occupational therapists know all too well the importance of establishing healthy occupations and functions at an early age to ensure a child grows up with strong mental and physical health.

Early intervention from our parents and those around us help us to learn normal and acceptable behavioural routines at a young age, but sometimes occupational therapy intervention is required.

Often this can be necessary when a child experiences traumatic loss of occupation and function when going through the adoption process.

We explore the role of occupational therapy in this as we speak to Beacon House’s Therapeutic Services and Trauma Team’s Ruth Stephen and Scottish Adoption’s Jette Lempvig.

As always, we bring you innovative products to help your younger clients lead comfortable and happy lives which can be found on pages 59, 61 and 62.

We love to hear your experiences and stories, so please get in touch with any paediatric stories you would like to share! Email us at ros@2apublishing.co.uk.

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30/10/2017 12:42

Adoption

Paediatric occupational therapists know all too well the importance of establishing healthy occupations and functions at an early age to ensure a child grows up with strong mental and physical health.

FACILITATING

families

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Adoption

to carry out controlled movement and perhaps there may be cognitive and learning difficulties. heir fear responses will affect their ability to stay calm and to build relationships both in the family and in school.

I

t is in our early and primitive childhood years that we begin to form the traits, occupations and functions that mould us into our adult selves.

It is a cliché, but children are like sponges and early life exposure and experiences can massively impact on a child’s mental health and behaviour.

And the damaging childhood trauma and loss of functions and occupations that come with adoption can significantly turn a child s life upside down.

But through various psychological, educational and occupational intervention, children can quickly begin to restore meaningful occupations, learn how to function in their new environment and create strategies to allow them to have a happy and healthy childhood.

Ruth Stephens is the OT lead at Beacon House Therapeutic Services and Trauma Team. Leading the expanding workforce of OTs, Ruth also works alongside other health and education professionals to ensure adopted children are well supported.

“Children in the adoption process have inevitably suffered trauma or Adverse Childhood Events (ACEs).

“ACEs may mean exposure to abuse emotionally or physically and in cases

It is a cliché, but children are like sponges and early life exposure and experiences can massively impact on a child’s mental health and behaviour

children will have been exposed to drug and alcohol use in utero that could affect their nervous system and overall development. Adoption involves losses; the life the child once knew, birth parents, foster carers or siblings. Because our sensory systems are closely linked to our attachment patterns, young children who experience poor or faulty care, may have a lack of appropriate sensory input which is likely to have impacted their lives in far-reaching ways.

“Because early life has been about survival, adopted children may have developed an acute ‘fear alarm’ system.

The child’s primitive brain, which controls their survival, will have been on high alert.

“It may affect them at every level. The need to focus on survival at an early age will inevitably affect their higher processing skills such as the ability

“Their sensory systems may be unable to regulate, and they may have too acute an awareness of threat, due to hyper igilance, mo ing into fight or flight. lternati ely, they may be in freeze mode which is the brain’s strategy to cut out and shut down from stress. These responses have implications at all levels such as attention levels, muscle tone and relationships.

“A good assessment of a child’s functional capacity helps integrate them into new family homes. Sensory attachment trained paediatric OTs are crucial as a good understanding of the sensory and autonomic nervous systems is key, due to early trauma.

“A sensory attachment assessment, pioneered by Éadaoin Bhreathnach, will look at all the child’s sensory and motor skills, their capacity to regulate and to co-regulate with their family.

“We may also use very functional approaches too, such as practical skills training.

“At Beacon House our work is in conjunction with other professionals and is trauma informed.

“A full therapeutic needs assessment may take place with a clinical psychologist prior to OT involvement to understand the family and the mental health and wellbeing of parents and child together.

“We base our multi-disciplinary work on Bruce Perry’s framework of the Neuro Sequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT), considering the developmental levels of the brain in three stages: the primary, limbic and cortical brain. We work to activate all levels and stimulate new 

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Adoption neurological pathways, but modulation of the primary brain’s fear responses is prioritised in these children.

“Their cortical brain may be struggling with the development of both cognitive functioning and with complex movements (praxis) because they prioritise feeling safe.

“It is vital that attachment between parent and child is strengthened.

Therapy cannot take place without the parents. After thorough assessment, we will almost always involve schools.

“It is crucial that everyone working with a traumatised child understands their developmental needs and considers their responses to triggers and how their sensory systems may respond in each environment. Because behaviour is communication, a shared understanding is important in helping the child feel safe.

Sensory diets can help children regulate, focus and participate in school. Advice may be provided to key teaching staff on developing motor skills and postural control, so a child can sit at the table, engage with PE, lunchtime and play.

“In the Neurosequential model we ensure that the child feels safe, regulated and secure before helping them explore the trauma that they have experienced.”

Scottish Adoption’s OT Jette Lemvig is approaching two years with the charity having been approached thanks to her extensive background of 15 years in Child and Adolescent Mental Health.

As part of their growing therapy centre, Jette has dedicated one day a week to building their OT department.

“So far I have done consultations for parents when Scottish Adoption staff ha e suggested a consultation first to determine whether further OT input is required. A general assessment of various aspects such as emotional regulation, sensory processing, eating, dressing, sleeping and issues around school are looked at - anything impacting significantly on their daily

It is vital that attachment between parent and child is strengthened. Therapy cannot take place without the parents.

After thorough assessment, we will almost always involve schools

functioning. After an hour and a half chat we see whether there is anything I could offer or signpost them to other services such as speech and language or a paediatrician.

“Sometimes it is a direct referral, but from that, I’ve done a lot of school observation work or liaised with school staff to help them understand the child’s background and why they are presenting the way they are.

“Some kids run out of class, hide under tables or can be quite aggressive in their interactions with staff and peers and I help them try to see how a child who has experienced trauma often struggles to regulate, and see how we can change the class environment whether we are looking to introduce movement breaks, heavy work activities and think about where in the classroom they are situated etc.

“An example of a child I have worked with is a wee boy who was very sensiti e to touch and he ould ust fly off and bite other children, so he would make sure he was at the beginning or end of a line, and I was able to

discuss why that was helpful and how we could put other things in place by looking at visual timetables, praise, coaching etc.

“I’ve met with parents alone and with the child to take them through sensory integration strategies and deep pressure.

“It can be about allowing the parents to have more control and help the child regulate, but sometimes, the child can ask for that because they can be very demanding and controlling of their parents and struggle with home regulation. They may hold it in at school but when they come home it can all spill over.

“With older primary children I work on developing self-regulation strategies and enabling children to understand their needs.

“Sometimes we develop an ‘all about me’ sheet - like a passport - that they can carry with the things they like and don’t like, how they look when they are stressed and anxious and strategies that can help them li e using a fidget or being allowed a movement break.

“In my CAMHS job, I do a lot of playbased OT work to assess children and enable children to develop an emotional language, develop a sense of self and give them a voice. This is something which could be developed further as part of the therapy centre.”

For more info on adoption please visit beaconhouse.org.uk or scottishadoption.org

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For over four decades, Wessex Lift Co. Ltd. has been leading the way in mobility and accessibility solutions and creating innovative designs.

Contact for more information;

Designer of the Market Leading Wessex Home Lift

01794 830303 / info@wessexlifts.co.uk

New for Reablement The Daily Living System

Clear summary of activity

Unbiased evidence of an individual’s progress Detect when an individual successfully completes reablement tasks using discrete movement and activity sensors combined with a unique sequencing tool. Deliver more accurate assessments over a shorter period and provide individuals with the support, skills and confidence needed to continue living at home.

Provides objective evidence without direct observation

View securely online

Reduces assessment time

No cameras or microphones

Tested by OTs

No internet required

Visit justchecking.co.uk/professionals/reablement Call 01564 785 100 or email info@justchecking.co.uk

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Now with BioCote Antimicrobial Technology

Pivotell is proud to feature BioCote antimicrobial protection in our automatic pill dispensers, making them more hygienic, reducing the potential for microbial cross contamination and the risks associated with it.

BioCote’s leading edge technology significantly decreases microbes including E.coli and MRSA in just 15 minutes, with reductions of up to 99.5% achieved in 2 hours. It works continuously for the lifetime of the dispenser, protecting against all bacteria and mould.

Find out more today:

Unprotected surface

BioCote Protected surface

pivotell.co.uk

The New Neptune 2 JCM Seating and Sunrise Medical are proud to announce the all new Neptune 2 seating system.

Designed from the ground up with eye catching appeal, modularity and ease of use at the forefront, the Neptune 2 is perfectly placed to meet the requirements of the user with mild to moderate postural needs.

Strong and durable, with its 100% modular design the Neptune 2 is ideally suited to meet the changing needs of the user, as well as reconfiguring when the time for re-issue comes along.

Come and see for yourself at Stand K50 at the Occupational Therapy Show where we’ll be delighted to take you through the Neptune 2.

0845 605 66 88 option 4

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www.jcmseating.co.uk

jcm@sunmed.co.uk

30/10/2017 15:21

Product Focus

As part of our Paediatrics Section, we take a look at the products on the market that can help improve the lives of your younger patients.

Construction Eating 01246 211777 winslowresources.com Marry fun with function and create one of a kind mealtime experiences with this award-winning mealtime resource. Used by many OTs to promote motor development. Cleverly designed utensils, plates and placemats help easily distracted children and picky eaters have productive and less disruptive meals. Placemat engages while child is waiting to be served with shadows for matching utensils. Plate has sections to keep different food types separate and the tactile edges feature different construction vehicles.

Utensils are easy to grip and surprisingly easy to clean. Dishwasher safe. Metal utensils may scratch and mark plate.

More products on the next page

Klearside 01752 512222 | bakare.co.uk Klearside beds focus on protection, comfort and visibility, providing transparent sides so that both the parents and the child have increased visibility and tough vinyl bump covers to enhance safety and protection against involuntary movement.

For maximum comfort all Klearside beds feature four section profiling ith anti-mattress compression.

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New Product Showcase

MultiCare Plus Our MultiCare Plus chair is one of the most versatile and adaptable chairs on the market.

We will be showcasing the chairs vast range of functions at this years OT Show. Don’t miss the opportunity to view the MultiCare Plus alongside our most popular models.

VISIT US AT THE OT SHOW Freephone: 0800 37 37 02

22nd & 23rd November 2017

NEC Birmingham

Stand No: F34

Email: info@recliners.org.uk

www.recliners.org.uk

Buy online

NEXT DAY DELIVERY

• Bathroom Aids • Bath Seats • Bath Lifts • Electric Showers • Bath Steps • Shower & Bathing Accessories • Bathrooms Deltis • Bathmaster Sonaris and more...

Go to www.otbathrooms.co.uk to see our full range of products or email sales@otbathrooms.co.uk

We are a trusted and reliable company supplying and fitting specialist bathrooms. We are here to help and advise accordingly, providing our customers with a bathroom that is safe, practical and stylish.

We welcome visitors to our showroom at 53 Warwick Road, Olton Hollow B92 7HS but if you are not local to Solihull, then we are only a phone call away. If you wish to speak to us please call on

0121 707 8612

Alternatively, get in touch with us via email at:

sales@othbathrooms.co.uk If you are unable to get our showroom in Solihull we can visit you at no cost for a no obligation quote

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Cup with built in straw 01799 541 807 | fledglings.org.uk his colourful cup is ideal for little fingers as it has a comfortable grip shape, a scre top lid and an integral stra . he stra is set in a rigid position ensuring it does not mo e and it reaches to the ery bottom of the cup allo ing access to the ery last drop of li uid ithout too much mo ement. his is ery beneficial for children ith limited mobility or nec control.

Squeeze Machine specialneedstoys.com esigned to offer children the same feeling as a big bear hug, the uee e achine allo s children to experience a full body s uee e. he deep pressure they feel from rolling through the soft, s uishy bumpers can ha e a calming and relaxing effect. t can be an in aluable sensory toy for children that need deep propriocepti e input.

ChatAble therapy-box.co.uk he inno ati e technology to support communication for people ith speech and language difficulties has been used in the latest ersion of herapy Boxs grid and scene communication app, hat ble has been relaunched. he app uses ugmentati e and lternati e ommunication for ids, teens and adults li ing ith conditions such as cerebral palsy, aphasia and autism gi ing them a oice. hat ble is no li e, a ailable on iO , ith ne features and functionality to allo for more comprehensi e communication. he le er ore feature personalises ocabulary dependent on the age of the user, and users can uic ly build communication grids from the , a ailable symbols. he symbol prediction helps find the ords and sentences used most fre uently and the ne , high uality oices allo for additional personalisation.

More products on the next page www.

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Mobi Changer 01626 835552 | smirthwaite.co.uk The Mobi Changer from Smirthwaite is a fully mobile changing table that re uires no installation or fixing.

Its compact and slimline design means it can be easily manoeuvred from room to room, offering an extremely cost effective option for multi-transfer or multi-user environments. The electrically operated Mobi Changer provides an excellent travel range of 480mm and can be lowered and elevated at the touch of a button. Safe and suitable working heights can be easily achieved which helps prevent the risk of back injury to the carer. The Mobi hanger has been designed to ensure sufficient clearance for a wide number of hoists. Its mobility and unique stowaway side rails enable safe and easy handling.

Whether you are transferring from a bed, wheelchair or toileting chair, the Mobi Changer is the perfect solution. Buy online in a variety of great colours.

Cerebra Sledge 01332 810504 | gordonellis.com The Cerebra Sledge was originally developed as a bespoke solution for Sarah, a young lady with a disability. Sarah’s wheelchair and buggy could not be used in the snow, so she had to sit inside while the other children in the village went off playing in the snow. She needed a fully supportive seat on a sledge that would not draw negative attention and would not get stuck in the snow.

Cerebra understood the issues Sarah faced, so they set about designing a sledge for her. Designed to last many winters, it has a lo centre of gra ity and is fitted ith straps for safety, armrests and a safety lead. Gordon Ellis and Co. are proud to make these high quality wooden sledges for Cerebra to help children with disabilities to enjoy playing in the snow.

Seahorse Plus Toileting Shower and Chair 0345 121 8111 | nrshealthcare.co.uk The NRS Healthcare Seahorse Plus is an award-winning Seahorse Sanichair range. Re-designed following extensive feedback from healthcare professionals, carers and users, many accessories are included as standard including lap strap, detachable splash guard/pommel, foot straps, large capacity potty, arm rests and head rest. Not only can arm rests help an ambulant user to get in and out of the chair, they also provide a safe place for the user to rest their arms.

The Seahorse Plus has been designed to accommodate the use of a hoist, ensuring that the arm rests are quick to remo e. he foot rests can flip up to enable easy access.

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Adult & Paediatric Sizes Available

Tilt in Space

Mobile Chair

Elevating Leg Rest

Independent Arm Drops

Negative Leg Rest

Independent Adjustable Back

Fits through household doors

For a FREE demonstration or assessment contact us at: www.aidingability.com

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01268 206111

info@aidingability.com

30/10/2017 15:22

Deaf community

W

ithout clear and concise communication between OT and client, progress cannot be fully achieved.

But not all communication in OT is verbal and often differing methods of communication have to be employed.

One alternative is the knowledge of British Sign Language. For part of the population, B is their first means of communication.

For OT roles in deaf sectors, a knowledge of BSL is imperative for OTs to connect with their clients. This issue, The OT Magazine caught up with two deaf OTs from the education and mental health sectors to see how their roles and experiences differ to hearing OTs in their lines of work.

Michele Jones is Exeter Deaf Academy’s lead occupational therapist. Having set up the occupational therapy department within the school nine years ago, profoundly deaf Michele now leads a team working alongside teachers, teaching assistants and other school departments.

“I am one of a minority of OTs - at last count there were only ten deaf OTs in the country. aediatrics is ery difficult to get into, I couldn’t tell you how many other deaf OTs work in paediatrics. I am profoundly deaf myself so I feel that both BSL and being an OT are just a part of who I am.

“It isn’t just about having a knowledge of BSL - anyone can have that. It is the deaf culture and its history. It is easy for someone to say they can sign BSL and only be able to produce two words! BSL is a language that is imperative for everyday use of deaf people. I am very passionate that I am an OT and I am profoundly deaf.

“I have often thought that being a deaf OT, life would be so much easier if I was hearing. But I am profoundly

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Give me a sign Occupational therapists pride themselves on their faultless understanding of the art of communication.

deaf and am not going to wake up tomorrow hearing. It has taken me a long time to believe that I can do it and achieve what I have - I am proud of that.

“There is, in my view, much quicker progression for hearing OTs. People are quick to judge and discriminate against disability, even other professionals.

I have to rely on interpreters for communication and their availability which does sometimes mean I don’t have access to meetings. I have to be and am very good at planning and time management.

“I have a better understanding of what it is like for deaf students to grow up with poor communication. I am able to communicate fluently ith any student who is deaf and may have other complex needs such as autism.

“A large percentage of what I do

is looking at sensory regulation difficulties. any deaf students can be over or under responsive to stimulus and may need coping strategies to allow them to be in a ready state of mind to learn. I work with students ho are in that fight or flight stage due to their sensory needs not being met. Working with teachers, TAs and care staff I am able to work to ensure their sensory needs are being met.

“The role of an OT is just as imperative as any other professionals like teachers or doctors.

“For young deaf people, due to the opportunities missed that hearing people pick up through hearing, OT is essential.

“They learn differently and use other senses to allow them to learn. With deafness there is a significant amount of other disabilities that will impact

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Deaf community

“Working with deaf people you are open to the wide spectrum of conditions and presentations with mental health itself as well as possibly working with deaf people who have other physical and sensory difficulties that may impact on or are in addition to their mental health issues.

“This service works with deaf people who use BSL to communicate as well as those who communicate in English. We work with deafened and deafblind people as well as using the written word and a hands-on approach respectively. The service sees people as young as 18 right up to over 95! his calls for a flexible ay of or ing rather than working to a standardised approach.

“It is very easy for members of the deaf community to slip through the net and it is vital that those working with them are trained in signposting and supporting them to access other services.

The role of an OT is just as imperative as any other professionals like teachers or doctors. the level of OT required.”

Barbara Brown is a full-time occupational therapist working in mental health with deaf people employed by NHS Lothian but working in Edinburgh-based community service charity Deaf Action.

“As I am deaf myself, I’ve always had a working knowledge of BSL but my colleagues in mental health and deafness have excellent skills in BSL.

Occupational therapists as a whole are natural communicators.

“It can be hard for deaf people to know about and access services outside the deaf community, hence our mental health service funded by NHS Lothian being based in Deaf Action. Deaf Action also advocates for services to use interpreters so our service works closely with Deaf Action on mutual clients.

“At the start there were two of us, a CPN and an OT and we covered the entire city of Edinburgh and outlying Lothian areas. The Scottish Mental Health Service for Deaf People began a year after us and cover the entire country by way of clinics in different areas. The OT has stayed with the community service but works closely with the Scottish service in providing assessments in other areas.

“Nearly everyone in the Scottish service can communicate in BSL to a high level of level 3 onwards. The current OT has level 4 in BSL and the staff in Deaf Action - some of whom are deaf themselves - can communicate in BSL. “Our current OT meets with OT students periodically to share information about Deaf Service and Deaf Action handles all lines of enquiry by passing them to the appropriate quarter to help grow the knowledge of how to support the deaf community.”

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E E SIT COD B WE UNT 5’ AG O SC TM I D ‘O

Daily Living Aids to Help Maintain Independent Living

• Provides firm grip and hold • Non-toxic and chemically inert • Phtalate plasticiser free • Autoclave safe to 250°C • Antimicrobial • Fully washable and long lasting Buy via the website or contact us using one of the methods below Tenura Ltd Churchill Road Industrial Estate Brinscall PR6 8RQ

Silicone anti-slip and grip daily living aids www.tenura.co.uk

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Anti-slip and grip for independent living

30/10/2017 15:22

Guldmann Ceiling hoists

Case Study by Dorthe Lundh

Guldmann’s new innovative function for ceiling hoist

T

he ceiling hoist has been given a fresh and exciting makeover with a new and innovative function that proves valuable in both the operating theatre and intensive care unit.

Ceiling-mounted hoists are already installed in many rooms in hospitals and now the equipment has further potential as a rehabilitation and strength training device.

The ceiling-mounted hoist may have been developed and used primarily for moving people with reduced mobility, but there is so much more it can do. Thanks to a new and innovative electronic function called the ’GH Positioning Lock’, the ceiling hoist can now also be used for strength training, treatment purposes and, not least, as a helping hand in the operating theatre.

Training and self-training Ceiling-mounted hoists are already installed in many rooms in hospitals and now the equipment has further potential as a rehabilitation and strength training device. The GH Positioning Lock consists of an optional function for ceiling lifts that can loc the lift in fixed positions, allowing it to be used in connection with elastic band strength training and other exercises. By mounting elastic exercise bands to a ceiling hoist fixed by ositioning oc , patients can rebuild their arm, shoulder and leg muscles from a lying or sitting position. The patient can also train on their own, meaning that staff need not necessarily be present during exercise sessions, which in turn frees up time for other tasks. It is widely believed that patients who exercise while in bed have more of a positive view of their hospitalisation time.

Patients’ overall well-being can thus be expected to improve, as they can do much more to help get themselves back on their feet again.

Treatment By connecting a GH Positioning Lock to the ceiling hoist, the locked lift can also be used to treat extremity wounds, such as a sore on a patient’s heel.

In this situation, a heel strap is attached to the ceiling hoist, and the locked hoist and traverse rail can keep the patient’s leg comfortably suspended whilst the wound is cared for.

Positioning Lock in the operating theatre and intensive care unit The new function provides additional functionality in the operating theatre or intensive care ward. We know the daily costs of caring for a patient in an intensive care unit are sky-high, but the possibility of performing physical

training and rehabilitation directly from bed provides a clear advantage for both specialised caregivers at the hospital as well as patients. In the operating theatre, the ceiling-mounted hoist can hold an extremity still rather than putting the prolonged strain of a fixed or ing position on staff. The positioning lock therefore also contributes to an improved working environment.

These are just some of the possibilities brought about by using the new GH Positioning Lock. In the future, the positioning lock could also be used to more effectively rehabilitate patients suffering from neurological conditions – along with many other potential applications. The GH Positioning Lock was developed by the ceiling hoist manufacturer V. Guldmann A/S, in collaboration with Horsens Hospital, located in Denmark.

For more information please visit www.guldmann.com www.

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Staying independent with Stannah

At Stannah, we know how to help people get on with their lives.

Whether it be a fully customisable stairlift, or one of our range of wheelchair lifts, we are committed to offering solutions to enable more people to stay in the home they love. Backed up by the Stannah promise to provide best quality products, superior service and great value for money, we are a company you can trust.

Visit us at the OT Show on stand D42 to find out about the latest Stannah products and news

For more information, please call 0800 715332 or visit www.stannahstairlifts.co.uk Untitled-1 1

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Understanding care equipment.

Maximising care equipment budgets.

When you work with Wealden Rehab you gain a partner with a wealth of care industry experience.

You’ll benefit from our advice and our adaptable products will meet your patients needs and maximise your care equipment budgets.

The Saros, adaptable for different patients.

Providing longevity and reducing costs over time.

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Hottopic

Digital learning The world is moving faster than ever, and with it, occupational therapy lecturers are finding more and more ways to connect with their students.

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he most popular online discussion thread for occupational therapists #OTalk invites occupational therapists to join in and debate certain topics every Thursday opening up conversations between professionals from different areas who would maybe otherwise never be in communication. his opening of the digital floor to thousands of users at a time offers as many advantages as it does pitfalls though, and in education, traditionalists sometimes argue against the use of online learning and remain strong supporters of classroom based, face-to-face discussions and teaching.

With much to be said about both styles, we take a look at and weigh up some benefits and disad antages of online discussion forums as a learning tool.

By employing an online discussion thread, quieter and more timid students may feel more confident in contributing to debate and putting their thoughts and opinions forward.

By allowing a student to compose and write their thoughts down coherently and have time to think about how they would like to word it, it may encourage them to contribute more as they are not worrying about nerves or not being a confident spea er. lso, they do not have to contend with louder

classmates who maybe are prone to speaking over them, which could lead to a loss of confidence and a do nturn in learning. On the flipside though, it may not impro e their confidence and communication levels in person, which is a key component of a good occupational therapist. Furthermore, those with poor written skills may struggle to add to discussion.

Often, you may find students ha e the same question or different understandings of something. With one person asking in an open forum, time and confusion can be saved as a lecturer can post one answer to ensure clarity that will reach everyone instantly.

However, while the lecturer may then open this to conversation and discussion, some students may too quickly agree with others and not provide their own response or thoughts.

While it encourages peer-reviewing and learning, it also promotes greater scope for ‘anytime learning’. Lecturers and students will not need to be in the same room anymore and it provides an ideal alternative if circumstances such as weather or illness means that a face-to-face lecture cannot take place. However, it does require a great deal of lecturer supervision and constant checking to ensure everyone is participating and moreover can prevent the growth of a relationship between lecturer and student.

So, it seems a blend of modern and traditional learning methods is likely to be the best way to ensure productive and proactive learning is achieved. While occupational therapy has always moved with the times, the essential skill of communication and personable qualities required from an occupational therapist cannot be learned from a touch screen.

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30/10/2017 15:23

Daily Living System

Advertising Feature

Just Checking

How a reablement system also helped spot a severe UTI.

OT Case Study

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he aily i ing ystem from Just Checking was launched earlier this year, and is no used by a large number of OTs around the country. It provides unbiased evidence of an individual’s progress during reablement, as ell as additional insights that can help OTs better support their clients. he aily i ing ystem uses small movement and activity sensors that are positioned around the home on doors, skirting boards and objects such as the ettle, fridge, micro a e and taps. here are no cameras or microphones, ust simple to attach, discreet ireless movement and activity sensors with a plug-in hub that requires no internet connection.

The system’s sequencing tool groups activities to help practitioners identify when an individual successfully completes a task that has been set

as part of their reablement, such as making a hot drink or having a shower.

Every time the task is successfully underta en, it is sho n on an easy to read, secure online chart.

The system also gives practitioners objective visibility of an individual’s mo ement around the home, and ill sho , for example, if they had a disturbed night.

It is this combination of task completion and movement around the home that has led many OTs to say that the system helps them discover important information that may have been difficult to identify ithout it, especially when an individual does not mention or denies the difficulties they are having. It can give the OT unbiased evidence that can lead to additional uestions being as ed, and this can result in support being adjusted and independence being improved.

One recent example of this was in Scotland where the team had placed the system into the home of an individual to gain evidence of washing and dressing. The lady had come into their ser ice ith a fi e days pre iously, and once the ust hec ing system as in her home, it highlighted that she was going to the toilet very frequently. This information prompted the OT to speak to the lady about how often she was visiting the toilet. She denied that she was ma ing fre uent isits to the bathroom, but the e idence from the system, and the fact that the indi idual also appeared slightly confused, led the OT to carry out a 4AT delirium screen for which she received a concerning score of . he O tal ed to the lady specifically about the UTI and antibiotics and found that she had stopped taking them due to large hives appearing on her arm.

The OT was able to link with her senior charge nurse and her GP. A urine sample showed a severe UTI and the lady was put on suitable antibiotics. A week later the 4AT test was repeated and she scored , indicating no delirium. he team belie ed that, because the ust Checking system highlighted her frequent visits to the bathroom, it helped them to spot the earlier than they might other ise ha e done, especially as the service user was not providing information to help them do so.

As well as evidencing when reablement tasks are being completed successfully, the aily Living System helps practitioners to spot unusual patterns of acti ity, hich can be a good way to start conversations. It can highlight hen an indi idual is up in the night, hen they visit the bathroom or if they are spending a long time in a particular room, hich may be unexpected. This information can be used to open a dialogue around why they may not be sleeping ell, hy they might be isiting the bathroom frequently or around any other unexpected acti ity, and can ma e it easier to understand how their care can be improved.

Just Checking will be at The OT Show at stand F80 For further info on the Daily Living System visit justchecking.co.uk/professionals/reablement, call 01564 785 100 or email support@justchecking.co.uk.

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30/10/2017 15:23

Seating feature

Take a

seat What should we be considering when choosing a chair to suit our clients?

Words by Kate Sheehan, Repose Furniture

W

e are all aware that poor sitting postures and unsuitable seating can develop or exacerbate both physical and medical conditions with far reaching consequences on the quality of life and overall wellbeing of our clients.

As occupational therapists we are aware that a chair is not just for sitting in; most people would prefer to be engaging in some form of activity or task rather than just to sit endlessly looking at a wall.

Therefore, assessing for a chair for a

client is a complex intervention and should take into account not only the physical requirements, but also the psychological and functional needs.

It is useful to use the PET model as your evaluation approach as it makes sure that none of the essential areas of assessment are missed during the process.

As OTs we are aware that a chair is not just for sitting in...

PERSON This covers the intrinsic factors for an individual including but not limited to: Anthropometrics: Make sure you measure your client accurately and do not rely on the chair company’s representative to do this for you, record the measurements and write up a clear specification for the chair manufacturers.

Cognitive: It is essential that your client understands the chairs features and controls, how to use them or put ď ľ

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Seating feature

a plan in place so the control panel is controlled by a trained personal assistant and kept out of the way of the client to avoid confusion. The client needs to feel safe and secure in their chair, so their own opinions, features and concerns should be discussed with them and their carers if appropriate.

Neuro- behavioural: Does your client need support to enable good postural stability, if so how is this going to be achieved without affecting engagement in purposeful activity? If a client does not have the ability to alter their position on a regular basis how is this going to be managed to reduce pressure concerns. Will the chair restrict their ability to process sensory information and put them at greater risk of skin integrity issues?

Physiological : We are all acutely aware of the cost to the NHS of treating pressure sores, therefore it is critical to assess accurately for the pressure needs of the individual, understand their condition, prognosis and skin integrity history before making a recommendation. client s strength and flexibility is also key to the assessment, what can they do independently and what do they need assistance with. Will the chair aid or impede the client doing those tasks?

Management of pain is also critical as it is difficult to engage in any acti ity if you are in pain, so the right chair can reduce the impact of pain.

ENVIRONMENT his specifically loo s at the environment in which the chair is going to be used, discuss with your client where the chair is going to be

When assessing the task, it is essential that you observe it, complete an activity analysis and see what movements are essential to achieve the task without undue effort.

placed or where it may be moved to in the future. Never forget to speak about the aesthetics; there is evidence that expecting people to ha e something they do not li e ill be asting finite resources because they will not use it. Providing a client with choice, even if that choice is limited, allows them to feel part of the process and not an outsider in their own assessment of need.

TASK What does the client want to do in the chair and what barriers will the potential chair play in restricting their activity? When assessing the task, it is essential that you observe it, complete an activity analysis and see what movements are essential to achieve the task without undue effort. For example, if a client li es to complete crosswords, do they need a table? Do they need to be able to lean forward? o do they extend their arms, is the movement bilateral? The aim of the assessment is to provide a chair that enables the chosen activity, not hinder it.

If the chair is in a lounge, remember that the definition of communal is a shared space for a community, if you cannot engage with other people hilst sitting in your chair, it is not fit for purpose.

Finally, when it comes to the delivery and final fitting of the chair, it is prudent to create a seating passport, which is attached to the chair and shows clearly, preferably by a photograph, how the client should be positioned. Details on pressure relief, how the chair should be positioned for greater occupational performance, when a service is due and who to go to if there is a problem should all be included. Remember your client will change and a review should be completed annually to make sure the chair is still meeting their needs.

There has to be a balance between all areas assessed, position and pressure relief should not impact occupational performance because the mental health wellbeing of an individual is just as important as their physical health.

Kate Sheehan is one of the UK’s leading independent occupational therapists and is a director of The OT Service. Kate has been advising Repose Furniture for the last two years with the development of its range of seating solutions to ensure they meet the requirements of OTs and their clients. For more information on the full range of bespoke seating solutions available from Repose call 0844 7766001, email info@reposefurniture.co.uk or visit www.reposefurniture.co.uk.

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New Product

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Cambridge man gets a ‘lifechanging’ lift for the home A 70-year-old man with an extremely rare form of muscular dystrophy has described how he discovered a ‘life-changing’ method of moving between the floors of his home after installing a Stiltz HomeLift.

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hristopher Knowles, 70, from Cambridge, suffers from Inclusion Body Myositis (IBM) – a slowly progressive muscle-wasting disease that mostly affects the arms and legs.

Symptoms of IBM initially include the progressive weakening of the wrist and finger muscles, the front thigh muscles and the muscles that lift the front of the foot. This meant that Mr no les as finding the stairs in his two-bedroom Victorian terraced home extremely difficult to manage.

Unusually, the two bedrooms were downstairs and the kitchen, living room and bathroom were upstairs so it was essential that Mr Knowles could find a mobility solution to help him mo e bet een floors more easily. e had already decided against the idea of a stairlift after having been advised it was unsuitable for his needs.

“It was taking me forever to get up the

stairs and it was very painful,” he said.

“A stairlift was not suitable at all. I could probably get myself on the seat but would not be able to get myself up out of it. An occupational therapist said

The Stiltz HomeLift has been truly lifechanging for me. I can access the upstairs of my home now at the touch of a button. a stairlift was out of the question for someone with my condition.

“Lots of friends suggested I move house and I did look at the possibility of a bungalow but couldn’t bring myself to leave the home I’d lived in for more than 20 years. Also, I can’t drive anymore so I didn’t want to move out of the city. Because where I live is right in the centre, it’s easy for me to get to the shops. In the end, I decided

I would get an extension built and get a tilt ome ift fitted. d read great reviews about them on the internet,” he added.

Mr Knowles chose the Stiltz Duo ista ome ift because he li ed its contemporary look, it sits well with the extension, which resembles a conservatory. The lift car is manufactured from structural polycarbonate and its curved body is clear on all sides allowing natural light to flood in from the extension windows. e said he tilt ome ift has been truly life-changing for me. I can access the upstairs of my home now at the touch of a button. The lift is also great for carrying things like bags of food shopping up to the kitchen, whereas before I would really struggle to get both them and me up the stairs. I liked the design of the Stiltz Duo Vista because it is transparent on all sides and didn’t in any way look like an unattractive, square, disabled lift.”

For information about Stiltz Lifts visit stiltz.co.uk, email info@stiltz.co.uk or phone 0808 278 8883.

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30/10/2017 15:24

Gambling

A roll of the

dice

Compulsive and problem gambling is as real an issue as ever, but also a very hidden one.

O

ften compulsive gamblers are not even aware of the debilitating effect their habits have on their lives or that they have even developed an addiction. With gambling more accessible than ever and readily a ailable at our fingertips, it has become part of the fabric of many of our li es. or many it is harmless, part of our weekend trips to the football or a little line on the horses.

But by identifying gambling as an unhealthy occupation so to spea , occupational therapists become wellplaced to aid in the recovery process.

One OT that is involved in this sector is ucinda ollard, therapy business manager at Woodbourne Priory Hospital and Priory’s Wellbeing Centre in Birmingham.

“Being an OT adds a strength to being manager of a therapy department, said Lucinda.

“We often look critically at areas which may or may not be functioning at the ery highest le el and try to find solutions that can overcome this to generate the most engagement or positive outcomes for the individual.

I therefore feel this has supported my work as a manager as I adopt this approach daily, .

Lucinda’s holistic approach allows her to take into account the knock-on effects gambling has on addicts, from the psychological rollercoaster, to the concerning consequences. he challenge in this situation, is that an individual has become addicted to an occupation that no longer enhances their uality of life, and they can find it ery difficult to find an alternati e that can offer the same experience, Lucinda said. 

Individuals are driven by participating in activities or roles that bring a sense of enjoyment or fulfilment to their lives... www.

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Gambling Addiction I WAS A COCAINE ADDICT AND A COMPULSIVE GAMBLER, SO PEOPLE CAN RELATE TO ME AS A THERAPIST A BIT MORE

“Individuals are driven by participating in activities or roles that bring a sense of en oyment or fulfilment to their lives - very much in line with Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs.”

“When an individual participates in activity that provides a positive response - whether physically or emotionally - often that individual will wish to repeat this; it can be anything from eating a particularly tasty meal or going to a social event with friends.

“However, the challenge can arise when this is experienced with an activity which can produce a negative impact on the quality of an individual’s wellbeing. For example, when an individual begins to enjoy the rush of a win, they may feel a rush of endorphins, elation, excitement and the positive experience of being able to spend the winnings. Therefore, they may be driven to experience the same feeling again. However, when they lose, it can create negative emotions such as sadness, guilt, shame, despair and the compulsion to win money back. This creates a negative cycle which can then become the focus for an individual, and slowly begins to replace more healthy and meaningful occupations and becomes their sole focus.

“If they fall into debt from gambling, the despair this causes can begin to control their thoughts and they feel they can’t escape. They become hopeful that the only way to remedy the situation is to ‘win big’, which again encourages the focus to be on gambling as opposed to other occupations.”

To combat this, many addicts turn to rehabilitative or counselling services to understand their addiction and make a start on the long road to recovery, with occupational therapy having a role in the Priory’s process.

“The introduction of OT in the recovery process can vary depending on the

individual and their needs. The MDT team will decide which team members will support the individual’s recovery and strive to ensure the steps they put in place offer the best possible opportunity of long term recovery or abstinence. The individual’s insight into their addiction, and how meaningful their routine is, can impact on when the occupational therapist is introduced,” explains Lucinda.

And a large part of that rebuilding programme, is not just quashing the addiction, but helping recovering compulsi e gamblers find a ay of life after the addiction to help ensure they don’t return to gambling.

“Occupational therapists support individuals to look objectively at their everyday routines and look at how these impact on their lives and themselves. They work with the individual to begin to explore how their thoughts can impact their actions, and roles, and how they perceive themselves - but also how their addiction has impacted all of this. This exploration then helps to support the individual to ‘make the links’, but then to move on and establish new roles, positive action and occupations that will enhance their quality of life away from their addiction.

“Occupational therapy goes beyond helping an individual stop the addiction. t also prepares them to fill the void which is left behind when trying to give up the addiction. It is about a ‘lifestyle redesign’ that allows them to move away from the addiction and begin to have the quality of life they aspire to have.”

Tony’s

story

Tony Marini is a recovering cocaine and gambling addict now with Castle Craig Hospital in a specialist therapist role having turned his life around and finding himself in a position anting to help others.

A twenty-year addiction saw Tony at stages spending £3000 on cocaine and up to £6000 on gambling every week before taking up the 12 Step meetings in St Andrews to overcome his addiction, leading to completing a diploma in counselling to help others in a similar position.

“I think it makes it easier for people to identify with another addict,” he said.

“I was a cocaine addict and a compulsive gambler, so people can relate to me as a therapist a bit more as I have been through it myself. It helps because they know I’m not just reading from a book.

“With most people who come to us with drug or alcohol addictions, we often find hen e get to no them, it is amazing how many people are compulsive gamblers too and started as that.

“It’s amazing how many people come into our rehab not even thinking that gambling is a problem, but when they look back at their behaviour, it’s the reason they end up involved in drugs and alcohol as a way of repressing the habits.”

For more details please visit priorygroup.com 80

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By signing up to our Pro Package you will become a fully-fledged member of our O ommunity, ith exclusive access to our bespoke social media platform here you can upload your profile picture, eep up to date ith O specific ne s, share ideas and knowledge with peers and network with other OTs.

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30/10/2017 15:24

Occupational Therapy Show

Celebrate 100 years of occupational therapy with the Occupational Therapy Show The Occupational Therapy Show is the perfect place for you and your colleagues to celebrate 100 years of occupational therapy with all that is occupational therapy! The show offers an outstanding educational programme, with speakers from around the world presenting sessions tailored to all occupational therapists. However, the event offers so much more than initially meets the eye. Here’s what you can expect from the fifth edition of the show this November...

Clinical Excellence

S

pread across the various educational features will be some of the biggest names in the occupational therapy profession right now. These will include Professor Michael Iwama, Dr Jenny Preston MBE, Dr Joanne Fillingham, Gillian Leng, Michael Mandelstam, Stephanie Saenger, Dr Alison Warren, Alice Hortop, and many, many more. They will deliver over 80 hours of free, accredited CPD education across seven education theatres! Here are just a few education session highlights to get your teeth into...

Professor Michael Iwama Professor Michael Iwama will be presenting on both 22 and 23 November in the Keynote Theatre. One of his presentation titles will be ‘Like a River; The Power of Client Narrative in Occupational Therapy’ and will take place on Wednesday 22 November at 10:30 – 11:30.

Presentation synopsis: The most powerful occupational therapy aims to enable people from all walks of life, to engage and participate in activities and processes that they value. Prof. Iwama will explain why client narratives of their real experiences and struggles in everyday life are essential for occupational therapy to succeed. An overview of the Kawa (River) Model is presented as an effective method to access client narratives, and in turn configure an occupational therapy that is relevant, and powerfully effective.

By attending this session, delegates will be able to explain the importance of client narratives in OT, the structure and concepts of the Kawa Model and how it can be applied in OT.

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Clinical Excellence

Doctor Jenny Preston r enny reston, consultant occupational therapist ill be presenting ositi ely evaluating leadership from an occupational perspecti e hich ill ta e place on ednesday o ember, in the eynote heatre at .

Presentation synopsis: Occupational therapists are emerging as leaders in a range of settings and roles. his has generated en uiry into the personal and professional attributes of occupational therapists as leaders. uring this presentation theoretical models of occupational therapy ill be accessed to understand leadership within the context of the person, the environment and occupations. his ill be framed ithin the personal leadership ourney of a consultant occupational therapist as a non-medical clinical lead and how the vision and model of care for a neurological rehabilitation ser ice ere theoretically informed, implemented and e aluated.

By attending this session, delegates will be able to: •

ritically debate theoretical models of leadership and occupational therapy.

• Understand the impact and importance of the person, environment and occupation within a leadership context. • ustify the reasoning to support relevant models of care, evaluate service provision and demonstrate value for money.

Free major exhibition In addition to the clinical experts, those at the top of the product de elopment and research field will also be in attendance, with more than 270 suppliers and manufacturers represented across the bustling trade floor. hether you re loo ing to upgrade your practice service, seeking new equipment for current clients or wishing to find ne solutions to existing issues, we have it all at fantastic prices! Check out the latest innovations, technologies and services on the sho floor and ma e sure you ta e this opportunity to try out ne products for yourself. ou ll be able

to find out more about the products available from Stannah, Handicare, n acare, , unrise, to name but a fe . Or you can get information on the latest training courses available from reputable pro iders, and there ll be experts in recruitment and finance on hand too. ou can also source information from some of the leading charities to find out about their inspiring projects and see how you can get in ol ed. hat s more, the exhibition floor ill host an array of leading associations and societies who ill be more than happy to sho ho membership could benefit you.

270+ suppliers

30,600hrs

The amount of free CPD that The Occupational Therapy Show has delivered in the last four years

New! Posture and Wheelchair Essentials theatre Brand ne to he Occupational herapy ho this year ill be the Posture and heelchair Essentials Theatre, supported by and .

Designed to help focus on wheelchair

and seating assessments, particularly looking at pressure management, specialist seating and manual heelchairs. t ill be useful for anyone or ing regularly ith clients requiring wheelchairs or special seating equipment, whether on a permanent basis or for occasional use. o ma e sure you ma e time at the sho this year to pay this brand ne theatre a visit!

Visit www.theotshow.com to see the full education programme.

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Network & have fun

Continued commitment to the profession The Occupational Therapy Show has delivered more than 30,600 hours of free CPD to occupational therapists in the past four years. Not only is it the place to go for education and sourcing new products, The Occupational Therapy Show also provides the profession with various platforms and initiatives to get the most from their visit, this includes:

The Paediatric Trail If your specialist area is in paediatrics, or this is an area of interest, then The Paediatric Trail is for you. There will be an actionpacked programme full of relevant CPD opportunities, as well as an exhibitor list dedicated to paediatric products and services. By visiting all paediatric focused exhibitors, you will gain greater exposure to all the latest products, services and technologies on the market, enabling you to provide a more enhanced service to your clients. Keep checking the website for regular updates on all participating exhibitors as well as key seminars for this specialism.

The Poster Zone Following on from the success of previous Poster Zone’s at the show, the organisers of The Occupational

Therapy Show are delighted to announce it will return for 2017.

The Poster Zone will be located on the exhibition floor and ill display posters submitted by OT professionals from NHS Trusts, private healthcare, local authorities and many more. It will continue to celebrate and provide a format for individuals and teams within the OT profession to share best practice and network with colleagues from across the UK.

The Occupational Therapy Show Awards The Occupational Therapy Awards Program is aimed at grass roots OT professionals in the UK, and we are delighted to announce that nominations for the 2017 Awards are now open! The awards will celebrate and acknowledge successful individuals and teams within the OT profession. We are delighted to be able to recognise all sectors of occupational therapy through these awards which are open to any OT professional irrespective of career level. Join in the Awards ceremony and celebrate your OT peers achievements on Wednesday 22 November from 17:00 in the Networking Lounge.

It is just as important to us that you have fun at The Occupational Therapy Show, while learning and developing your skills.

So, all delegates are invited to attend the free drinks reception which takes place on Wednesday 22 November at 17:30 in the Networking Lounge and OTea Time, which is a free tea and cake afternoon taking place on Thursday 23 November at 15:00 also in The Networking Lounge.

More than 4,700 professionals are expected to attend the event – which will be co-located with Therapy Expo– offering the perfect opportunity to network with friends and colleagues from all corners of the industry. If you haven’t registered for your free pass yet, make sure you do now!

Register your whole team for FREE today at www.theotshow.com/otmag or call 0207 013 4989 / 0207 013 4659!

Additional Information

Location: Hall 9, NEC, Birmingham Dates and times: Wednesday 22 November: Registration opens from 08:30, doors open 09:00 - 17:30, with a complimentary drinks reception until 18:30.

Thursday 23 November: Registration opens from 08:30, doors open 09:00 - 16:30, with free OTea Time tea and cake afternoon at 15:00.

Nearest Train Station: Birmingham International.

Postcode for Sat Nav: B40 1NT.

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This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotional offer or sale item.

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30/10/2017 15:25

Dawn Blenkin Senior Lecturer, Teeside University

Dawn is a senior lecturer at Teesside University. She also holds external roles as a specialist advisor to the CQC and is a visitor who inspects educational programmes on behalf of the HCPC. @OTBlenkin

Student Advice

A journey of self-discovery Why is self-awareness important? Dawn Blenkin gives her thoughts on the benefits of increasing self-awareness.

A

s an occupational therapy student, you are on a continuous journey of discovery. New experiences create opportunities to learn about ourselves. Self-awareness moves us beyond the old, well-worn pathways in the brain that support fixed, unconscious habits, but this requires the constant monitoring of one’s own thoughts, emotions and attitudes.

Being self-aware affords you with the ability to judge a situation to determine what type of interaction is required. This is advantageous, not only when interacting with service users, but colleagues too.

Have you ever considered how you see yourself or what your qualities are?

How do you think other people see you? Do you have an ideal self (what you think you should be or would like to be)? It can be uncomfortable analysing yourself, but it has so much professional relevance. Your selfawareness underpins your interaction with other people. It’s the basis for your personal and professional learning and development. After all, how can you monitor your performance and make improvements without the awareness that you need to?

Self-awareness involves taking control of your own thoughts and is closely

THE BIG QUESTIONS So, what can you do to develop your self-awareness? How about starting by answering these questions? You could even make it fun by doing it with a group of friends.

• I would tell a white lie if...

• I feel the most motivated when...

• I avoid challenges when...

• I’m open about myself to others if...

• The kind of support I need more in my life is...

• I’m stubborn when...

aligned with a positive self-image.

People with a positive self-image can take risks in a balanced and safe way.

They are also happy being themselves, without needing the approval of others. When you have a positive self-image it’s easier to speak directly and honestly with others. This also makes it easier to take criticism and

make constructive use of it. How do you feel when you give or receive a compliment? People with a positive self-image do this easily. Ask yourself, “when was the last time I gave a compliment?” Maybe you should set yourself the challenge of giving at least one compliment a day.

Developing awareness is a lifelong process and I would urge you to think hard when you feel strong responses.

Communication is the basis for interaction with others and being self-aware maximises the potential for successful interactions. Remember though - self-awareness doesn’t stop you from making mistakes but it does help you learn from them!

If you are a student who would like some advice send your questions to theotmagazine@gmail.com.

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Ruth Gwyn-Thomas Occupational Therapist

22nd and 23rd Nov 2017 NEC Birmingham theotshow.com

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Your events 22-23 November 2017

13 December 2017

The Occupational Therapy Show

OTAC Edinburgh

NEC, Birmingham, Day 1: 9:00-17:30, Day 2: 9:00-16:30

14 November 2017

Care Roadshow London Epsom Downs Racecourse, 9:30 - 15:00

The main date in many occupational therapists’ diaries, The Occupational Therapy Show makes its return packed full of CPD opportunities.

Find more information on page 85. Registration open - book your tic ets and find more info at he Occupational Therapy Show website: www.theotshow.com.

Care Roadshows are a series of fi e free regional care e ents throughout the UK that are tailored to all decision makers within the care sector including Care Home Owners, Managers and Healthcare Professionals. Care Roadshows enable practitioners to source high quality products and services from established suppliers. This includes care management systems, catering and laundry equipment, pharmacy services, recruitment, HR plus many more– all integral components for an organisation providing care.

EventCity, Manchester All exhibitions run 9:30-16:30.

Dedicated to children with disabilities and special needs, their parents, carers and professionals who work with them. Over 130 exhibitors offer information on mobility, funding, seating, beds, communication, access, education, toys and much more. A full programme of CPD seminars runs alongside each exhibition. More info call 0161 607 8200 or visit www.disabledliving.co.uk/Kidz/Welcome.

More information at otac.org.uk.

Moving & Handling People South 2018 Watford Hilton

30 November 2017

Kidz to Adultz North

OTAC events showcase an excellent array of exhibitors as well as a variety of seminars to help learn, discover and network. Free for all occupational therapists, it offers a great opportunity to talk to manufacturers and service providers on a one-to-one basis.

31 January – 1 February 2018

For more information and to register for your free ticket, visit www.careroadshows.co.uk or call 01425 838393.

16 November 2017

Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh, 9:00 - 16:00

CYPF Physical Disabilities Forum

Two full days of equipment-centred -certified training include eynote talks, four hands-on workshops and four seminars and an Open Forum. Aimed at health and social care professionals managing and providing hands-on practical care, these events enable practitioners to widen their experience and no ledge to deli er efficient, safe practice through improved performance and techniques. To view the latest programme and ticket rates or book call 0207 432 8008, email mhp@dlf.org.uk or visit movingandhandlingpeople.co.uk.

Royal College of Occupational Therapists The CYPF Physical Disabilities forum are hosting an event focused on getting children and young people with physical, learning disabilities, and autism participating more in their day-to-day lives. There will be lots of different learning opportunities, including a workshop with Anne Corbett on Person Centred Active Support (PCAS). Free for CYPF members, non-members can join by signing up, register interest on Eventbrite or email cypfpdforum@gmail.com.

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Crelling Harnesses manufacture a full range of special needs harnesses suitable for use on all kinds of equipment including wheelchairs, buggies, scooters, shower chairs, bathing equipment, stair lifts and seats in cars, buses and aircraft etc.

The vehicle harnesses are designed to be worn in conjunction with the existing safety belts to provide additional postural support and/or to offer a certain degree of restraint when used for those passengers with behavioural problems or learning difficulties.

C&S seating

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Products designed and developed to aid basic postural management.

T Rolls T Rolls are used to control position of the body in supine lying.

See our web site for our full range of postural control & support products.

Alternative Positioning Support The APS is designed for use where more control of the abducted lower limbs is required.

We make simple belts and full supportive harnesses for all kinds of special needs, including challenging behaviour

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11/07/2017 09:19 30/10/2017 15:25

Heading here

Training & Recruitment

case manager?

Why become a

This issue we speak to ILS about what it takes to become a case manager Why become a case manager?

Case managers have one of the most rewarding jobs in health and social care, making tangible differences to clients’ lives.

Case management in the private sector gives unique opportunities – you may be involved from the start and by building a good rapport and working relationship you can be part of this journey, long or short, and see clients achieve their goals. At ILS, case managers work with their clients to access cutting edge opportunities and services and lead in managing the overall package of care.

ILS are currently seeking case managers from across the UK, looking for health and social care professionals with extensive experience of working with clients who have sustained traumatic brain injury, poly-trauma, spinal cord injury, limb loss or cerebral palsy.

Why work as a case manager for ILS? We provide comprehensive induction and supported CPD, fully funded memberships to case management professional bodies, plus support to achieve advanced membership. We are committed to supporting our case

What we’re looking for

We are committed to supporting our case managers to enable them to provide the best care to our clients.

managers to enable them to provide the best care to our clients. You will receive a comprehensive induction to case management and your first client case. We recognise that case management requires development of new skills. We provide bespoke training in litigation and courtroom skills. We actively support CPD with regional and webinar based training opportunities organised by our in-house L&D manager who is an experienced case manager and occupational therapist.

You will have a dedicated professional mentor who will be experienced in case management. Our head office team provide administration, IT and technical support to case managers.

At ILS, we offer case manager careers on a flexible basis. Based from home, you would manage your client caseload including travel and client visits within your geographical area and within the hours that suit you and the client’s needs.

You will have experience of working directly with clients in the community and be able to demonstrate your professional abilities within the field of complex, long-term health care assessment, care planning and outcomes for clients. You will have current professional registration and an up-to-date CPD portfolio.

Key competencies We follow the Professional Competency Framework as set out for brain injury case managers. The competencies further the development and understanding of the role of brain injury case management and provide key behaviours, attitudes and actions that are expected and valued for case managers.

We have opportunities on a variety of contracts to suit your current working needs from employed roles on a salaried or hourly basis, or on a selfemployed basis.

For an informal chat about the role, please contact Phil Perry or Sarah Ransome on 01722 742 442 or forward your CV to ilshr@indliv.co.uk.

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Training & Recruitment

Housing Adaptation & Design Courses • • • • • • • •

Bathroom Adaptations Ramps Reading Plans Wheelchair Standards

• •

Plus-size (Bariatric) Users Building Issues

DFGs Kitchen Adaptations Accessible Lifts Children with Challenging Behaviour

In-service training - we visit services throughout the UK and deliver training on site.

Public courses - we run courses in venues in London & Scotland on specific dates of the year. Open to all to attend.

07909-582491 Viva Access Ltd admin@viva-access.com www.viva-access.com

“Loved the course - high quality training and delivery excellent” (Inverclyde OT Service)

Further your OT career

At Ncore (National Centre of Rehabilitation Education) we have a range of courses to further your OT career.

Occupational Therapy for Children with Handwriting Difficulties

The Shoulder: An evidence-based approach to diagnosis & treatment

Date: 5th - 7th December 2017 Venue: Royal Derby Hospital Fee: £330

Date: 27th - 28th January 2018 Venue: London Road Community Hospital Fee: £250

Mobilisation of the Neuroimmune System

Vestibular Rehabilitation/ Dizziness for Occupational Therapists

Date: 1st - 2nd February 2018 Venue: Royal Derby Hospital Fee: £295

Date: 6th - 7th February 2018 Venue: London Road Community Hospital Fee: £300

For further information or to book a place please visit www.ncore.org.uk

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We are the largest provider of HP expert witnesses in the UK, renowned and respected in the field

Join our expanding team of experienced Occupational Therapists

Occupational therapists play a key role acting as expert witnesses in clinical negligence and personal injury litigation We require experienced occupational therapists to undertake case work, who are confident, have excellent communication skills (verbal & written), enjoy a challenge, are intrigued by the forensic nature of this work, and above all are keen to learn new skills.

We offer Regular work on a case by case basis to fit in with other work commitments Excellent remuneration Full & on-going training, supervision on every case & support You will work on a self employed, flexible basis, alongside your “day job” You will be working at a senior level with a minimum of 8 years post qualification experience as an OT or/and case manager Request an information pack at admin@somek.com

30/10/2017 15:25

Training & Recruitment

Case Managers

wanted

ILS – a leading case management and rehabilitation company – seeks case managers from across the UK to complete our team.

Use your skills, experience, and innovative approach to achieve positive outcomes and make a significant difference to the lives of people who have sustained a catastrophic injury.

We offer full induction, training and mentoring support alongside an excellent remuneration package and flexible hours. Roles are home based with a client caseload within your geographical area.

Call Sarah Ransome or Phil Perry for a chat about the role, or send your CV to: ilshr@indliv.co.uk

www.indliv.co.uk

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30/10/2017 15:25

Training & Recruitment

Case Managers

EDGE services

Managers needed to join our passionate and innovative team.

Moving and Handling [People] Trainer

and Assistant Case

HOME-BASED EXCELLENT REMUNERATION LOCAL CASES

You will be a talented professional with at least 4 years post qualification experience, HCPC registration and will share our ethos of working to the highest standards in a genuinely caring environment.

The Manual Handling Training Company Ltd

Band / Pay scale: Salary rates are negotiable and dependent on qualifications and experience. Hours: Part to full-time.

Ref: Trainer. Closing Date: 1st December 2017.

EDGE Services are one of the leading providers of training in the healthcare and social care sectors.

EDGE Services are looking for a highly-motivated, professional person who has the ability to inspire and encourage delegates from all grades of the care sector. The successful applicant will have good organisational skills and flexibility. As we run courses throughout the United Kingdom, the successful candidates will be happy to travel, preferably be able to drive and have their own car.

We are a leading provider of case management throughout the UK, Europe and Worldwide

All applicants for this role must hold an appropriate current registered qualification: a nurse, an occupational therapist or physiotherapist, and previous teaching/training experience is essential. Ideally candidates will have an additional qualification pertaining to moving and handling however appropriate training will be made available for the right candidate.

Ensuring quality of life solutions, maximising independence and opportunity for severely injured adults and children.

Please email Claire Udell : claire@ccmservices.co.uk

Due to the nature of the post we are willing to negotiate a generous holiday entitlement for successful full time applicants.

*All posts are subject to DBS Enhanced Disclosure

EDGE Services are an equal opportunities employer.

01608 682 522

www.ccmservices.co.uk

Maximise Your

CCMS-TheOTMagazine.indd 1

Potential

Contact: Ruth Hewitt, Operations Manager, EDGE Services, 13 Museum Street, York, YO1 7DT. T: 01904 677853 | E: rhewitt@edgeservices.co.uk

24/10/2017 16:11

Jacqueline Webb

Expert Witness Opportunities

• Work with like-minded clinicians at the top of their field, most of whom are Occupational Therapists.

• You will have access to continuous, collaborative and structured professional development.

• You enjoy report writing and are looking for a flexible role to complement your hands-on therapy work.

• Become the Occupational Therapist you trained to be and maximise your clinical potential.

Learn more by visiting our website, by seeing us at the OT show or OTAC, or attending one of our webinars, email recruitment@jwebb.co.uk for more information.

W: www.jwebb.co.uk/recruitment T: 01722 342 512

Britain’s No.1 Rehab Cost Consultancy

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Jacqueline Webb

30/10/2017 15:26

Training & Recruitment

Accredited Training from the DLF The Disabled Living Foundation has been a leading provider of training for healthcare professionals for over twenty years. Specialising in impartial equipment-related training we offer courses across the UK. Our CPD-endorsed training courses can be tailored to suit you and we are renowned for our practical hands-on based approach to learning at all levels using equipment from a wide range of suppliers.

We are proud of our track record in training Trusted Assessors.

Thousands of professionals have attended our courses and been accredited by OCN to assess clients in their homes, enabling more people to live independently. » Nationally accredited by OCN » Two days of training using the latest equipment » Open and tailored courses UK-wide

To find out more about our shorter in-depth courses, masterclasses in moving and handling people, trusted assessor training and safer use of equipment please contact DLF Training.

Call us on 0207 432 8008, email training@dlf.org.uk or visit www.dlf.org.uk/training

Brownbill Associates Ltd

Case Management & Community Care Services

Looking to make a difference?

Do you enjoy a challenge?

Come and join our dedicated team of Case Managers Brownbill Associates Ltd is a leading case management company coordinating care and rehabilitation for children, young people and adults with complex injuries and long term conditions such as acquired/traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, orthopaedic injuries/amputation and cerebral palsy.

As a company, we are seeking proficient and knowledgeable professionals with a health or social care qualification, such as occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, social work, nursing or physiotherapy to join our case management team.

We work across the Midlands, South East, South West, London and surrounding counties and are seeking case managers for these areas.

You will need: Excellent communication skills A minimum of 5 years post qualification experience Experience of working with clients in the community To be organised and demonstrate a proactive approach To be able to produce high quality written reports To be committed to delivering excellent customer service and client care Employed and selfself employed options are available depending on your level of experience, location and capacity to take on self-employed cases. Dependent on this you will either be home or office based or a combination of the two. Details and remuneration will be discussed at interview, attractive rates are available. Induction, professional development opportunities and supervision will be made available to you To apply, please email your CV and covering letter to htonkin@brownbill.com For further information please visit www.brownbill.com Brownbill Associates Ltd, Kille House, Chinnor Road, Thame, Oxon. OX9 3NU Tel: 01844 212153

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30/10/2017 16:33

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