The OT Magazine

magazine

March/april 2015 • Issue 3

Improving Independence

Embracing Challenges 01 Cover_kw.indd 1

Return to practice

A personal journey

Supporting children with special needs and their families

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02/03/2015 04/12/2014 10:19 09:20

Welcome

welcome A

s we enter March and enjoy the nights getting lighter and the signs of spring creeping in, I can’t help but wonder how 2015 has gone so quickly. That said, it also brings me some excitement for what this year has in store for The OT Magazine and the wealth of events that are approaching for occupational therapists.

turn to page 26 you will find an insightful article from Maggie Winchcombe OBE, FCOT on the challenges and opportunities that occupational therapists have in promoting healthy lives to ensure people can live independently for as long as possible. And on page 47 Louise Baudet tells us about the vital work special needs charity, Embrace Special Needs Friendship Group is doing to support families

Exhibitions including Kidz in the Middle, which takes place in Coventry and the well established Naidex National which takes place at the NEC in Birmingham, are just around the corner and will offer OTs a great opportunity to attend free CPD accredited seminars, discover new products and share knowledge with like-minded individuals.

Naidex National returns with a strong focus for OTs through the dedicated COT Zone and you can visit us at Stand D126, find out more on page 43.

We also take a look at the emerging roles in expert witness work, if you have ever considered this opportunity turn to page 61 to find out what this role entails.

This issue Karen Miles shares her experiences of working with Combat Stress, the Veteran’s mental health charity and if you

The team Editor: Rosalind Tulloch Staff Writer: Jen McLean Designer: Katie White Sales: Robin Wilson Contributors Kate Sheehan, Karen Miles, Maggie Winchcombe OBE, Caroline Molloy, Dawn Fraser, Imelda Graham, Louise Baudet, Claire Rooney, Matthew Work Contact Details 2A Publishing Ltd, Caledonia House, Evanton Drive, Thornliebank Ind. Est., Glasgow, G46 8JT

t m t m t m

You will also find all of our regular features throughout the magazine, from innovative p ro d u c t s t o OT c o l u m n s a n d we h a ve introduced a regular student advice column f r o m D a w n Fr a s e r, S e n i o r L e c t u r e r o f Occupational Therapy at Teeside University.

We hope you enjoy this issue and please don’t hesitate to get in touch with any comments or ideas for features. ■ Ros, Editor

Sign Up For Your Free Subscription TODAY!

T: 0141 270 8085 F: 0141 270 8086 E: enquiries@2apublishing.co.uk

www.ot-magazine.co.uk

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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 2015 © 2A Publishing Limited.All Rights Reserved.

ISSN 2056-7146

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See page 66

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contents March/April 2015

07 What’s New

We explore what’s happening in the healthcare sector

13 Assumption – Is it the death

of our Profession?

20

Kate Sheehan shares her thoughts

15 Combatting Stress

OT Karen Miles gives us an insight into her work with the Veteran’s mental health charity, Combat Stress

39

19 Product Focus

We display some of the innovative products available to aid independent living

25 A Day In The Life of An OT

Every issue we talk to a different OT to find out what their job involves

26 Healthy Ageing and Independent Living

Maggie Winchcombe OBE, FCOT reflects on the challenges and opportunities for OTs

30 Independent OTs, Starting Out

Inclusion.Me share advice for OTs taking the leap to independent practice

32 A Red Island Dream

51

We discover how occupational therapy is being introduced to Madagascar through the WFOT

35 product focus

Discover more products to aid independent living

39 Return to Practice let us know your thoughts on the ot magazine

A personal experience shared by OT Claire Rooney

43

Naidex National 2015

What will be on offer at this year’s exhibition

See page 65

4

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47

47 Embracing Challenges, Supporting Families

We explore the vital support that special

needs charity Embrace is providing

51 Childrens Products

A look at the products available to help children with additional needs

55 Student Advice

Dawn Fraser introduces her new regular

column with some advice for starting assignments

53

61 Emerging Roles – Expert

Witness Work

We find out more about what this role entails

65 Your Voice Counts

We ask for your thoughts on The OT Magazine

66 Sign Up

Fill in your details for your free subscription to The OT Magazine

57 Events Calendar

Exhibitions, conferences and training days that may be of interest to you

58 OT Column

Imelda Graham shares her thoughts on the public perception of occupational therapy

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27/02/2015 08:29

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“I got referred to Stuart when my mother started having difficulty bathing and he arranged to have a wet room fitted.

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what’s

new

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

MANCHESTER CHARITY LAUNCHES NEW FUNDING

To donate to the CAMHS project and support children with mental health problems, text CAMH05 followed by either £1, £2, £3, £4, £5, or your chosen amount, to 70070

M

anchester-based c h i l d r e n’s c h a r i t y MedEquip4Kids recently marked Children’s Mental Health Week by inviting children’s mental health professionals to once again apply for funding. The charity is delighted to report that they have already delivered over £30,000 of improved resources to CAMHS teams across the UK since July 2014.

There is a huge need for effective support of children with mental health problems. However, childhood mental health services in the UK are desperately underfunded, and this has been widely reported in the press in recent weeks.

There has been a significant drop in funding for community support work in recent years, and as a result, CAMHS teams have no budget for resources, toys or reference materials to use with children and families at risk.

MedEquip4Kids funds medical equipment not available from limited NHS resources. The charity has launched a nationwide appeal to ensure that CAMHS services are fully resourced. In

kits to help staff reach a diagnosis and provide the correct support.

David, age five, has behavioural problems and is thought to have autism spectrum disorder. He attends CAMHS at Stepping Hill Hospital, where he learns through play to manage his emotions.

Mum Rachel says: “David enjoys going to the clinic. Last time we went we couldn’t tear him away. He enjoys the toys.” the first year of funding this project, the charity has delivered £30,000 of equipment to teams across the whole of the UK, including Belfast, Aberdeen and Central London.

Items urgently needed include reference books for parents, picture books for children, stress toys and games for children to take to school, mood cards to help with communication and understanding emotion, and diagnostic

Ghazala Baig, MedEquip4Kids Chief Executive says: “With so many children and young people experiencing mental health problems, there is an urgent need for additional support of mental health services. The resources we fund are really going to benefit children and their families.” ■ To find out more about MedEquip4Kids, visit www.medequip4kids.org.uk

Get Discovered www.findanot.co.uk is the newest resource aimed at helping occupational therapists get discovered! Find an OT is an online directory and review site containing HCPC qualified occupational therapists who cover a range of OT services from case management to equipment to vocational rehabilitation. If you are a HCPC registered occupational therapist, register for FREE today and forever be listed on Find an OT! If you are a self-employed occupational therapist or run a practice, Find an OT is a great way to gain exposure, receive client reviews and most importantly, be found for your area of expertise. ■ Come and see us at the OTAC Conference (www.otac.org.uk) on 13th April.

Follow us on Twitter @Findan_OT or visit www.findanot.co.uk for more information.

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what’s new

ACCESS INDEPENDENT NEED YOU Access Independent offers fully outsourced ‘fixed fee’ healthcare assessment services supporting a range of services within the public, private and voluntary sector market. They pride themselves on delivering high quality timely services supported by their centralised administration team along with their team of Senior Practitioners for efficient management of workflow from referral of case to completion as part of delivering high quality, responsive services.

They have proven experience of supporting many local authority OT, Adult Care and Parking services as well as other organisations from the private and voluntary sector supplying OTs (and in some cases Physiotherapists). They complete a range of assessments from those referred due to daily living difficulties to those requiring confirmation of eligibility as part of application for a blue badge and/or concessionary travel schemes as part ofdelivering high quality cost effective services.

dedicated kidz event takes place in coventry Don’t miss the dedicated event for disabled children, their families and the professionals who work with them. Taking place on Thursday 19th March, this event offers a free seminar programme covering a wide range of topics from managing children’s sleep and exploring multi-sensory rooms to information on direct payments and the changes in special educational needs law.

In addition to this you will find a wealth of exhibitors showcasing innovative products and services. ■ For more information call 0161 607 8200, email info@disabledliving. co.uk or visit www.kidzinthemiddle.co.uk

8

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As a result they have built a library of knowledge which they are happy to share through their range of workshops from the ‘essentials of working independently’ and working as a ‘Mobility Assessor’ to ‘How to write professional reports’, and updating knowledge on ‘housing adaptations’. To find out more about the workshops they have to offer turn to page 56 of our magazine for more details on dates, venues and how to book.

They are continually seeking recruitment of qualified OTs (and Physio’s) particularly those working in a community social care setting with knowledge of ADL assessment, FACS, DFG funding, accessible housing design and/or blue badges etc.

However if you have expertise in another field don’t be put off. OTs prior to the start of any work receive full training on all aspects of work and have supervision by one of their team of Senior OTs throughout the contract in accordance with the work they are engaged to do. They offer competitive rates and an alternative way of working to the 9-5 routine which is highly flexible offering a good work life balance.■ If you are an OT looking for flexible working arrangements or to upskill your knowledge please contact Access Independent today on 01223 229091 and ask for Lindsey Powell or email her at lindsey.powell@accessindepnedent.co.uk

The Website Designed With You In Mind

A

new online resource has been launched, aimed at providing a specialist product search engine for AHPs. Made2Aid enables searches to be carried out by refining criteria according to product type, presenting conditions and client groups and has links to enable demos and assessments to be requested directly from suppliers. It provides listings of UK-wide events and exhibitions, has a product review facility, and a forum which is intended to be an interactive space for therapists to post queries, share information and expertise.

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I

n i t s 21 s t a n n i v e r s a ry y e a r, DLF the organisers of Moving & Handling People are delighted to announce that the Conference will be additionally taking place in coordination with Naidex on Wednesday 29th and Thursday 30th April 2015 at the NEC. ‘Safeguarding standards, sharing the vision,’ will offer delegates two full days of CPDaccredited training based on a mixture of practical workshops and plenary conference sessions.

The new venture will enable delegates to visit key suppliers to the industry whilst completing two full days of specialist training and offers them the chance to experience the majority of the content of the January flagship event at an alternative to the London venue.

‘Trial by Jury’ a practical workshop in which delegates take sides in an anonymised real legal case to test their ability to testify in court and ‘Manual handling and dementia’ in which the importance of touch is explored as a working tool. The Conference is renowned for its hands-on practical approach which involves demonstrations of equipment in a highly interactive and enjoyable format.

The website is being constantly updated to include new equipment and services and already shows a wide range of products. It’s financed by enhanced product listings which include detailed information, demonstration videos, downloadable pdfs and brochures, and the contact details of product providers.

It’s free, with no online registration necessar y for produc t searches, and OTs can also use it to explore product ranges and signpost clients, carers, and anyone providing care and equipment.

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Moving and Handling People Held At Naidex All delegates attend four workshops and two keynote plenary sessions along with the Open Forum held at the close of day one in which delegates are encouraged to bring along their current issues to be handled live by the expert panel.

DLF is also delighted to announce that it will be Naidex’s Charity of the Year 2015 benefiting from the event’s support and donations. ■ Delegate bookings and further information are available online at www.movingandhandlingpeople.co.uk/mhp-naidex email mhp@dlf.org.uk or call 020 7289 6111. The April Conference costs £275 + VAT representing great value for money; entry to Naidex is free.

Co-founder of Made2Aid, Jade Godier, came up with the idea when she worked as a Product Consultant for a company specialising in postural support and assistive technology. ‘I was surprised at how limited information was online, how most searches gave irrelevant information and how often I resorted to searching YouTube to find new products, which then made it difficult to find

suppliers in my region.’ The website is set to develop into a comprehensive resource to support OTs, other AHPs, clients and carers, and those providing the products and services.

OT Consultant Ruth Ascroft comments: ‘The website is there to be moulded and shaped by the people using it. We’ve had good feedback from OTs so far and the product listings are increasing week on week. ‘ ■ For more information visit: www.made2aid.co.uk

27/02/2015 12:43

The Little Book of Seating

what’s new

Chair manufacturer Kirton has recently launched its brand new ‘Little Book of Seating’ – a pocket-sized guide for OTs and other healthcare professionals.

The book, which contains all sorts of helpful hints and tips, has been developed in conjunction with the company’s OT Ambassador, Ellie Burcher, and is already proving popular with clinicians. Vanessa Hands, Marketing Manager at the Kirton Healthcare Group explains: “We wanted to provide healthcare professionals with something that would really demystify seating and give them the tools to assess and prescribe with confidence. Rather than devising a longwinded and intimidating document we have put together a friendly, concise booklet that covers all the basics in a very simple, digestible way. Ellie’s input was fantastic and with our combined knowledge I feel we have

Royal Visit Marks Fifty Years of OT Education

F

ifty years of occupational therapy education in Wales, which has helped thousands of people living with health and social issues to get on with their everyday lives, was officially celebrated on 29th January.

A one day conference was held

by Cardiff University ’s S chool of Healthcare Sciences and the College of Occupational Therapists to show how far the profession had come since it was first set up in Wales in 1964. Alumni, staff, students and lecturers were all in attendance alongside a special appearance from HRH, The Princess Royal, Patron of the College of Occupational Therapists.

contribution that occupational therapists play in people’s health and well-being in today’s society and showed the progress that had been made since its humble beginnings in 1964.

Dr Stephen Whitcombe, Cardiff University’s Professional Head of Occupational Therapy commented: “We are delighted that HRH, The Princess Royal has agreed to join us and officially mark 50 years of occupational therapy education in Cardiff.”

“A s Pa t ro n o f t h e Co l l e g e o f O ccupational Therapists, The Princess Royal is a leading advocate for our profession and our vital work.” ■

produced something really valuable that customers will use regularly.”

The contents of the Little Book includes advice on a number of things including pressure care, how to assess correctly and how to produce a seating care plan. Ellie told us: “I thoroughly enjoyed working with Kirton on this project and am delighted with the end result. The book is just what healthcare professionals need; it’s short and snappy but jam packed with useful information, and best of all it fits perfectly into your bag or glove box, so it’s easy to access while out and about!” ■ To request your copy of the Little Book of Seating visit www.kirton-healthcare.co.uk

The conference celebrated the vital 10 www.

www.cf.ac.uk

or call 0800 212709.

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Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Converters Association

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COLUMNIST

Kate Sheehan

Kate is the Director of The OT Service; the company 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 their handpicked network of occupational therapists.

Assumption – Is it the death of our profession?

W

e all work in what can only be described as a very busy and frenetic world, however we must not lose sight of our core occupational therapy principals and especially our responsibility to put the client at the centre of everything we do.

I sometimes despair of my fellow colleagues and I am not surprised that our role and value is often questioned.

On a recent discharge of a patient, I was informed by the OT that the equipment needed to facilitate the client’s safe discharge had been ordered and would be provided by the local equipment store. Three days later this equipment was duly delivered by a very polite and helpful gentleman, however:

•

•

•

The toilet frame did not fit as the effluent pipe came out at a 90-degree angle and there was insufficient space to fit the back foot of the frame.

The bath board could not be fitted, as the rim of the bath by the wall was not wide enough to accommodate the bath board fittings or any bath board.

The perching stool was left in the lounge, as the client’s wife could not get round it in the kitchen when needing to prepare food.

Now these are all common problems and alternatives can be found, however the information on the equipment not fitting only got back to the OT after the patient had been ‘safely’ discharged from hospital.

On following up the case with the OT she stated that she assumed the equipment would fit in the bathroom, but had not discussed or shown the patient the equipment; if she had he would have informed her it would not work.

The OT had assumed the perching stool would fit in the kitchen, but had not asked about the size of the kitchen, or more fundamentally if he cooked. This was a 90-year-old Italian gentleman who had never prepared, cooked or even made a hot drink in his life; in his words to me ‘that’s women’s work’. We might challenge his statement, but we should respect what has happened in his house for the last 64 years of marriage.

Gone are the days where hospital OTs can routinely do home visits, which often highlighted these types of problems. Gone are the days when an OT’s car was full of equipment that we figured out how to fit ourselves.

The days that have not gone are those of professional responsibility. We need to look at different ways of working. Nearly everyone has a camera on their phone; ask a family member to take pictures of the patient’s home - the toilet, the bath, the bed. This will give you a huge insight into what will work and what will not.

Spend a little more time with the patients discussing what and how activities are carried out in their home and more importantly what activities they want to achieve. This patient wanted to be able to go back to his local café to meet up with his friends, yet this had not been discussed as a goal. I know the basics are important but we all need our own goals and often these are the most important purposeful occupations in our lives that make them fulfilling.

The silver lining is we may not waste so much money on equipment, which in these times of austerity I am sure would be welcomed. ■ www.

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New to

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Swing away elbow stops offer optimal positioning and comfort.

Foot Boxes

Laterals

Perfect comfort and positioning, available in three sizes.

Useful for body positioning, and simply interfaced.

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Tablet Holder

Tablet mount for hardware from 8”-10.5” in height.

i-Drive Head Array

Fully adjustable, advanced drive system and

* images used for illustration purposes only

Tel: 01869 324600 Email: sales@quantumrehab.co.uk Web: www.quantumrehab.co.uk

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04/12/2014 14:46 09:20 27/02/2015

MENTAL HEALTH

Combatting Karen Miles tells The OT Magazine about the role she plays as an occupational therapist with the Veteran’s mental health charity, Combat Stress.

Stress K aren Miles is the Occupational Therapy Lead at Audley Court, the Shropshire treatment centre for Combat Stress, the Veterans’ mental health charity. Karen came to OT after she was inspired by the care she received following an accident 12 years ago. She completed a four-year degree course and began her second career in the NHS.

The daughter of a serviceman, she noticed that the Veterans in treatment would ask to work with her because, she believes, she understood their way of talking and thinking. One day she set herself the goal of working exclusively with Veterans, and just two days later she spotted the vacancy for an OT at Audley Court. She sold her house, packed up the family and moved to follow her dream. › www.

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OTs can help ensure the Veteran gets the most from clinical care by supporting learning and physical disability and pacing the intensive treatment

› A Typical Day Karen says no two days are the same. She leads a team of four who run group and one-to-one sessions, which are part of the wellbeing and recovery programme.

Aptly named, the programme helps Veterans with a complex range of diagnoses to develop inner strength and teaches them more healthy ways to live while they move toward recovery.

Some OT sessions are based on acquiring practical skills while other sessions are offered in the evening with a more leisurely and comradely feeling - but all are tailored to the needs of each Veteran. In addition to the group work, the team seeks to have one-to-one sessions with Veterans. The OT time is interspersed among the group and trauma therapy sessions run by the clinical teams.

“One veteran may have issues around relationships at home,” Karen says, “and another may want to return to work or want practical tips on budgeting and healthy eating. All of these are explored throughout their stay at the treatment centre. As OTs we focus on three areas to aid recovery: self-care, productivity (work) and leisure (hobbies etc), all of which are all essential for positive mental health.”

Karen and her team also attend the multi-disciplinary meetings where each Veteran’s care plan is created or reviewed. OTs can help ensure the Veteran gets the most from clinical care by supporting learning and physical disability and pacing the intensive treatment to ensure the Veteran retains a sense of wellbeing.

Occupational therapists also have a unique vantage point in that they spend informal time with the Veterans. They gain insights that can be shared with other teams to improve individual care plans.

Karen also liaises with the community and outreach team over Veterans they ‘share’: “We encourage our veterans to write out a weekly timetable, to add structure and meaning to their activities and get the most out of what’s on offer.” Karen, who believes everyone should have an occupational therapist, assesses colleagues’ workstations and seating - to keep them functioning at their best! She also deals with allimportant record keeping and the welcome intrusion of gifts from generous local businesses, such as five brand-new bicycles. Karen, who clearly loves her job, sums it up well: “Our OT success list is incredibly long and I think that is why we do what we do. We empower our Veterans to make informed decisions, to believe in themselves and to live their lives fully the way they want to. OT is an invaluable part of the Veteran’s recovery journey and I’m so happy to be able to play my part”. ■ You can find out more at www.combatstress.org.uk

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product focus

Product focus

The independent living sector is filled with amazing innovations to help people live more independently. Every issue we will bring you a selection of products, from daily living aids to major mobility products, that make life a little easier for those who need it.

Bibble Plus Bandana Bibs

You may be mistaken for thinking these bandanas are just a fashion accessory. Practical and stylish, Bibbles offers a huge range of comfortable and absorbent child and adult bibs in a variety of colours and designs. Whether your preferred pattern is flowers, anchors, leopard skin or camouflage, Bibbles has the design for you.

Handmade in Nottingham with locally sourced fabrics, they are made from high quality cotton with a super absorbent fleece lining with nickel free, adjustable press-studs.

TGA Wheelchair Powerpack TGA Powerpacks are a great choice for therapists, carers and disabled individuals looking to select or recommend an assured powered solution to drive a manual, attendant-controlled wheelchair.

The four British-built Powerpacks from TGA have delivered trustworthy mobility assistance for over 20 years. More than 70,000 units worldwide reduce moving and handling risks for carers who are regularly responsible for pushing clients and relatives in wheelchairs.

Through an infinite range of fixings, TGA Powerpacks can be easily fitted to the underside of almost all types of wheelchair including many tilt-in-space models. Once installed, a

Powerpack will provide controlled and smooth propulsion to eliminate the difficulties of negotiating slopes, ramps or uneven surfaces.

The range includes a single wheel version for intermittent use through to the bariatric Powerpack Plus that can drive an occupant weighing up to 32 stone.

Give your clients and their carers the opportunity to engage more with the community and enjoy improved well-being with the TGA Powerpack. ■ Prices available on request.

TGA Mobility, 01787 882244 info@tgamobility.co.uk www.tgamobility.co.uk Visit TGA Mobility at Naidex on Stand B70

The unique combination of cotton and fleece means that the outer cotton layer absorbs wetness whilst the fleece under-layer acts as a barrier, keeping you dry. The ‘tunnel’ fleece disperses the wetness, creates airflow and allows moisture to evaporate and dry out quickly. Choose from the website or request a custom-made design. There are also fuller length bibs for feeding. ■ Prices from £4 Bibbles, 0115 849 0174 www.bibbleplus.co.uk

Visit Bibbles at Naidex on Stand C03

www.

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product focus

Extra Loud Doorbell You’ll have no excuse for not answering the door with this wireless door chime which can reach a volume of 94 decibels. It has a choice of eight different chimes, a range of up to 100m and a blue and white strobe light – ideal for those who are hearing impaired and those who have various other disabilities. ■ Prices from £40.49 UKS Mobility, 0161 969 4011 orders@uksmobility.co.uk www.uksmobility.com

PLUS Shower Seat 450

This shower seat is manually height and sideways adjustable by 200mm.

It has a backrest and armrests that are independently height adjustable. The seat and armrests also fold away when not in use leaving ample space in the shower for other users. Made from aluminium, the shower seat consists of a plywood core covered in

comfortable polyurethane foam and the non-slip gripping surface of the armrests are made of soft SEBS to ensure comfort and safety for the user.

Stylish and simple, they are available in a wide range of colours to complement any bathroom. ■ Prices available on request.

Pressalit Care, 0844 880 6950 uk@pressalit.com, en.pressalit.com

Visit Pressalit Care at Naidex on Stand D147

20 www.

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Visit Creative Care at Naidex on Stand C103

HiLo Bed Creative Care Ltd pride themselves on listening to their customers, with an ethos of “you talk, we innovate”.

Their new special needs HiLo bed not only looks good but also addresses some serious issues: •

• •

• •

Custom built to your requirements. You decide the number of openings (1-4), size and number of windows, open top or fully enclosed, you can even choose the style of the corners Stylish non-clinical designs Available with 1.4m, 1.7m, 2m high sides in single or double bed sizes No entrapment issues Exceptionally stable

• • • • • • • • •

Friendly looking design with no frame visible Adjustable start height No wooden bars, no foam pads held on with Velcro No hard surfaces inside Integral mattress that cannot be lifted Low noise (no rattles or catches to break) Provides a low stimulus environment Super tough wipe clean fabrics, no velcro Direct from the designer/manufacturer ■

Prices from £5500 excl VAT. Creative Care Ltd, 07585667248 sales@creativecareltd.co.uk www.creativecareltd.com

Nile Electric Leg Lifter No Pump - No Bellows – No Noise Electrically powered Nile leg lifter with a vinyl pad to lift and support transfer of legs into bed. Height adjustable and virtually silent the NILE3 will fit onto any standard divan bed whilst the NILE4 is designed to fit a pine, domestic electric divan or community hospital style bed.

The Nile Leg Lifter is also competitive in price. For a demonstration on this product please call our sales team on 01233 635 353. ■

Visit Centrobed at Naidex on Stand B01

Prices available on request Centrobed, 01233 635 353 sales@centrobed.com, www.centrobed.com

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Product focus

C

aroline Molloy is an i n d e p e n d e n t OT, a b u s i n e s s consultant, social entrepreneur a n d fo u n d e r o f o c c u p a t i o n a l therapy professional services company, OT Consultant. With 30 years experience, Caroline offers professional support to individuals or organisations who need to purchase daily living aids and equipment to support rehabilitation, care needs or independence in the home.

The Muggi can be held in one hand and takes up to 4 mugs, for those with good strength and balance, or can be used on a wheeled trolley or wheeled frame caddy. The base has four rubber non slip feet which prevents the unit from slipping 22 www.

You can contact Caroline at otconsultantltd@gmail.com or visit www.ot-consultant.co.uk for more information.

David Lynch Tailored slings

Muggi I am always attracted to products by their colour and design, what I like about the Muggi is that is it simple, functional and colourful.

Originally designed to solve a problem carrying mugs of tea and coffee on board a sailing yacht, the Muggi is a good example of innovation adapted for the disability market to make carrying hot and cold drinks safer and manageable.

Here Caroline shares her recommendations for products that aid independent living, giving an insight into the functionality, appearance, durability and affordability of each product and offers a personal view to why she would recommend it. ■

around on a tray or surface. For wheelchair users the Muggi can be attached to the side of a wheelchair using a clamp, so absolutely no excuse for anyone not to make a round of tea or coffee.

Muggi’s inventor David Trotter is open to developing the product further and he has an interesting story as to how the product was first developed. For the muggi story so far visit: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=g39jDHgFQBc&feat ure=youtu.be ■ For more information contact Muggi on 07970 029346, email trotski@muggi.co.uk or visit www.muggi.co.uk

design, style and detail David Lynch tailored slings caught my eye when I visited the Trade Days show firstly because of the styling of their slings and secondly because of their eye catching stand.

The slings are smart and stylish, being black or grey in colour with an orange contrast. There is a definite feel for an emphasis on high quality design as well as function and feel. The slings are hand crafted in Sunderland and come in standard sizes, as well being made to measure. I liked the idea of being “measured” for a sling by a tailor, it has a certain air of Britishness about

it. The instructions for the slings are well designed and easy to read, with a touch of humour added. David refers to the fabric used to make the slings “as soft as the sand on Seaburn beach and as strong as the steel used to construct the Queen Alexander Bridge”, a nice touch. Having handled the slings myself the fabrics felt very comfortable on my skin. ■ If you would like more information about the products you can contact David Lynch Tailored Slings on 0191 516 2080, email dlts@lynchhc.com or visit www. davidlynchtailoredslings.co.uk

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A unique power chair, with exceptional comfort and support.

*The J600 ES in Standard configuration

Fold Flat Seat

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Offering unique comfort, support and heightened suspension. The Jazzy 600 ES is an exceptional indoor/outdoor powered wheel chair. Offering superb, all-around performance and is an good power chair choice.

The Jazzy 600 ES features a great selection of standard features. Such as a comfort high back seat, ATX Suspension, along with smooth all-round performance from the mid-wheel drive system. Enabling excellent durability and outstanding functionality.

* images used for illustration purposes only

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11/02/2015 14:48 14:49 27/02/2015

Chrystal’s Story

No one can put a price on being able to feed yourself with dignity RBF Healthcare is a brand trusted by Occupational Therapists nationwide, it has been developing client centered products for over 20 years; it prides itself on providing the best quality solutions with cutting edge innovation.

Chrystal Chrystal is a vivacious and bubbly 20 year old with huge ambitions who is planning to go to University in September to study Counselling and Psychology.

As a young child, Chrystal was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular atrophy (SMA) a rare, genetically inherited neuromuscular condition.

SMA is caused by an abnormal or missing gene known as the survival motor neuron gene (SMN1), which is responsible for the production of a protein essential to motor neurons. Without this protein, lower motor neurons in the spinal cord degenerate and stop functioning. SMA causes symptoms such as muscle weakness and progressive loss of movement, and can affect breathing and swallowing.

Finding the solution On visiting Naidex, Chrystal discovered the Elemento, a dynamic arm support designed specifically to support the users arm and compensate for the loss of strength. What makes this product unique is the that user can easily modify the amount of support their arm is given at a any given time ensuring it is useable regardless of how they are feeling. The Elemento achieves this by using an innovative spring weight compensation mechanism that is both simple and effective. It is clear that throughout the design and manufacturing process a great deal of thought has been put into how the Elemento can blend in with its environment making it inclusive and invisible on Chrystal’s wheelchair.

Chrystal’s local authority funded the purchase of the Elemento and to obtain this provision, Chrystal had to explain that it would enables her to independently eat, drink, brush her hair, put on

As Chrystal’s condition has progressed it has resulted in a deterioration of her upper limb movement and she now has little or no movement in her left side and limited range of movement and strength in her right side. This loss of function has resulted in Chrystal struggling to carry out some everyday activities associated with daily living.

Chrystal’s had lost the ability to eat independently and relied on her carer to assist her to eat, she has a close relationship with her carer and had accepted her situation but still had a vision of being able to feed herself what she wants when she wants.

Chrystal’s personal goals ➢ To enable me to eat independently ➢ Find a product that was small enough to be able to be used in a variety of setting ➢ One that I feel would fit into my lifestyle and be unobtrusive Therapist’s outcome To enhance Chrystal’s occupational performance, enable her to eat independently for as long as possible and psychologically accept the equipment provided.

her makeup and clean her teeth, all of which reduce the amount of care she requires. Not only has Chrystal regained her dignity, Chrystal is able to use the Elemento for breakfast, lunch and dinner as the ability to change the level of support means regardless of how much strength in her upper limb she is still able to use it with ease as the controls for the amount of support she requires can be managed with ease with the controls situated neatly on her lap.

The Elemento has met all Chrystal’s goals and the Therapists outcome. Chrystal states, ‘The arm allows me to do activities that other people take for granted and gives me my dignity back and no one can put a price on thst’ RBF Healthcare is a real innovator in the field of healthcare solutions, it is constantly reviewing its product portfolio to develop or discover the next key advances in the field.

Further information can be found at www.rbfhealthcare.co.uk or call us on 01702 527401.

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a day in the life

A day in the life of...

Imelda Graham

Independent OT, founder of Echo Blue OT Ltd

I

melda became an independent occupational therapist in March last year after striving to become independent for a number of years. She now runs her own company EchoBlueOT Ltd and you will find a column from Imelda on page 58 of this issue of The OT Magazine.

What made you want to become an OT? I had never even heard of an OT until I did some work experience at 17 in preparation for university, when I spoke to a physiotherapist who explained about occupational therapy and what it involved. I looked into it as a degree but even as I attended university I was still a little skeptical. It wasn’t really until I’d finished my first work placement that I realised this is what I wanted to do. I began to really understand what our role is in someone’s life and how we can better someone’s experiences by giving them a better quality of life.

I find being an independent OT quite challenging as it requires balance in both work and business knowledge.

You have to be flexible and ensure that your business keeps thriving. It’s been quite a learning curve actually as I’ve had to really get to know myself, what are my strengths/limitations and what work am I willing to do.

In the private sector you truly realise how big the world is and how much freedom you have to explore. When you are in the NHS and local government services you have boundaries and limitations are set in accordance to policies.

What made you want to become an independent OT?

but with regards to the pressures on the NHS and Community Care Services at the moment we’re quite restricted as to what we can and can’t do.

When we are occupational therapy students we are taught to explore our problem solving skills and really think about what our patient would want to do to be independent and maintain a quality of life but as an Independent OT you have time to spend with your client and be more client centred, especially when a client would like to know how to adapt their leisure and holiday activities.

Describe a typical day for you…

At this time I am in a contract working for a London based Community Care Services. I am a Senior Practitioner OT managing a caseload, duty calls, supervising and assisting in developing the OT Team Services. I am also in the process of completing a complex private case so I am doing lots of reading on a daily basis in preparation for the assessment. I may also be attending one of many courses in relation to my working practice. It’s different every day!

What is your favourite part of your job?

Definitely going to see the client and getting a narrative about their everyday activities and what their issues are. Listening to my client’s stories is my favourite part of my job. I feel that this always allows you to build a great rapport with someone who requires help in enjoying their life. ■ www.otprivateservices.co.uk

A lot of independent OT’s will say the same thing, www.

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Healthy ageing and Reflections on the challenges and opportunities for occupational therapists

H

26 www.

ow often have you heard people say that they just “struggle on” with daily life as they have grown older and difficulties caused by functional impairments have become more pressing? Why are we flattered if we are told “you don’t look your age”?

These attitudes are symptomatic of an ageist society so something needs to change if we are to live healthily and independently into great old age!

age and this may not be as straightforward as it would seem. Recent research published by Coventry University reveals that recognising that you have a problem you need to do something about, along with lack of knowledge and awareness of products and services that could help, often mean that most of us do nothing to manage the accumulative effects of ageing. This leads to the tendency to ‘struggle on’ until a crisis forces us to face up to our changed circumstances. (2013).

While no-one wants to contemplate an old age that is defined by pain, frailty and dependence, there are many powerful influences that discourage us from facing up to the consequences of the ageing process. There is no doubt that motivation to keep active is crucial to maintaining good health and feeling that you ‘should just keep going’ is probably a good thing. But, it is becoming increasingly important that we all take personal responsibility to stay independent for as long as we can in old

As occupational therapists we have much to offer in supporting people to age healthily and live fulfilling and independent lives, however by the time older people come into our professional orbits they are already in crisis, or living with complex health conditions. There are real challenges in reaching out to people before they need our services. But there are also opportunities for us to influence and help to change some of the negativity around old age so that prevention and self-care can be much more meaningful. To do this we need to consider some wider societal influences.

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Healthy ageing

independent living

By Maggie Winchcombe, OBE, FCOT

Negativity about products and technology that can support independence Most of the stories we see in the press or television that relate to older people and independent living products focus on the bad experiences they have, for example; mis-selling to “the vulnerable elderly”; reckless mobility scooter drivers who are a danger to everyone else; over-pricing. Over time many products have become synonymous with decrepitude and frailty.

Think about the fallen old woman at the bottom of the stairs advertising a call alarm system, or how the zimmer frame and stairlift have come to symbolise old age. They tell the world what you can’t do as an older person; no wonder people resist buying them until they have no choice. How much better it would be if manufacturers and suppliers countered these negative images with more positive marketing messages, so that these products became badges of pride, demonstrating how they can help you to keep living your life as you want to as you grow older.

The way products look adds to the way we feel about using them. They are utilitarian to such an extent that they’re not desirable objects. They are things that we are obliged to use because we have run out of other choices. We just don’t see enough well-designed and affordable independent living products in the high street and although there are signs that this is beginning to happen, retailers often fall short of being fully ‘age-friendly’ in what they offer.

For instance, the inclusive, or universal, design concept1 has contributed to the emergence of the wet room in bathroom design resulting in many more accessible showering options in DIY sheds and showrooms.

Interestingly though, when looking in home improvement stores and catalogues you will see lots of the luxury and aspirational features of the latest wet room designs, but it is rare to see items such as supportive shower-seats, dual-function shower riser rails and easy-to-see-and-use controls illustrated, except as ‘special’ and ‘elderly’ extras. They could be part of a ‘family friendly range’ because these features are great for younger people too. But they are usually at the back of the catalogue, or buried in a website, which means they remain › Reference 1 Inclusive design in products and architecture was introduced in the UK by Roger Coleman in the Royal College of Art and Selwyn Goldsmith in Designing Homes for all in the early 1990s. The objective was to change the way products and buildings are designed so that they are more accommodating throughout life and don’t disable us by design.

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HEALTHY AGEING

› hidden and the buying public doesn’t have the opportunity to consider them and perhaps plan for the future when upgrading their bathrooms.

The direction of health and social care policy As healthcare practitioners the way we work is governed by health and social care legislation and policy, which is heavily influenced by demographic changes and the growing needs of our ageing population. The policy documents across the UK might describe the objectives of required interventions slightly differently; prevention, anticipatory care, selfcare, person-centred care, personalisation, health and well-being – but the message is the same. We will have to take more responsibility for managing our own health and not totally rely on the State to meet our care needs in the future.

As a result of this there are ongoing Government campaigns telling us of the health benefits of eating well, taking exercise, not smoking, limiting alcohol and reducing weight. There is no shortage of information about what we need to do to reduce our risks of developing life-threatening health conditions. It is up to us, as individuals, to follow the advice – but, at least we can’t say we don’t know. However, there are no comparable campaigns about maintaining independence in old age as part of the health and well-being agenda and public awareness about what practical steps we can take to help ourselves remains low as a result.

The changes in health and social care that are now being implemented will have wide implications for all of us. In particular the Care Act, coming into force in April this year, combined with the NHS reforms already under way, require us to think more creatively about ways in which we work and how we support people to look after themselves better.

Under the Care Act there will be new obligations for public services to inform, advise and signpost people in their communities to care and support services.

This means that most of us will probably need to get out more and find out what’s available for ourselves.

How confident are you about advising a client where to go to buy an independent living product? Does this requirement compromise your professional impartiality, or do you feel you have a responsibility to ensure they are able to make an informed choice?

Maggie Winchcombe, OBE, FCOT, is speaking at Naidex National (www.naidex.co.uk) on Tuesday 28 April in the Multidisciplinary Theatre and COT Zone (register online for a free ticket).

study looked into consumers’ buying behaviour and preferences, but also surveyed industry. Occupational therapists are perceived to be very influential by both groups and so industry is keen to engage with us and ensure we know what their products offer. As a result there is a notable increase in companies employing occupational therapists as advisers and ambassadors.

This is very welcome, but the value in establishing stronger relationships with industry is in recognising that it is of mutual benefit.

Above: Maggie Winchcombe, OBE, FCOT

Coventry’s COMODAL study (2014) confirmed that the consumer market for independent living is under-developed in the UK and it presents a wealth of information and ideas to help stimulate business development and lead to innovation. The reports will be of interest to occupational therapists too, because we need to understand the part that commerce can play so that we can help to ensure that more people are willing and able to consider actively planning for old age.

Think positive and take action!

In thinking about the general climate of negativity around ageing, the challenges of reaching people who don’t wish to acknowledge they are growing older or do anything about it, poor public awareness and an under-developed consumer market there is a real danger of feeling overwhelmed by the extent of the challenges ahead and not doing anything. As occupational therapists we must take positive steps to understand what’s happening in our local communities, find out what local people think and want and start to network and build relationships. Enlightened selfinterest is a great motivator. In the brave new world that is emerging it is our own futures that are at stake. ■

References 1.Ward G, Ray, S, Unlocking the potential of the younger older consumer; consumer preferences and the assisted living market , 2013, Coventry University http://www.comodal.co.uk/comodal/Comodal-Unlocking-the-

Encouragingly there is lots of scope to work with manufacturers, suppliers and retailers of independent living products and services to influence design and the way they are presented and sold. The Coventry 28 www.

Potential-of-the-Consumer-Report.pdf Accessed 26.1.2015 2.COMODAl, Understanding Consumer needs in a changing Assisted Living Market; insights for industry, 2014, Coventry University http://www.comodal. co.uk/comodal/Comodal-Insight-to-industry.pdf . Accessed 29.1.2015.

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QUOTE OT2015 FOR 5% DISCOUNT ad_pages_mar_apr_15.indd 10

26/02/2015 16:46

independent ots

Independent OTs

Starting Out Inclusion.Me is an award winning independent Occupational Therapy company covering both the private and public sectors and specialising in housing and access. They have also recently created a guide on becoming an independent OT to help those who are considering a career as a private OT. Matthew Work, founder of Inclusion.Me, shares his advice for starting out.

I

’ve met a lot of entrepreneurs over the past few years and they come in all shapes and sizes, but there’s one thing they all seem to have in common; they did it and after they’d done it, they wish they’d done it earlier.

Deciding to work for yourself in any profession is an exciting but daunting leap of faith. Lots of OTs who step out into independent practice say they started off confident in the professional services they could offer, but had little business acumen to support themselves properly.

When I started working for myself I loved it! It re-ignited my passion for OT, it gave me the chance to develop my professional skills and at the time of the arrival of our first child it gave me the work life balance I’d craved.

7 years down the line I’ve added another child, I’ve become a company and learnt more than I thought possible.

We’ve even been fortunate enough to win the odd award along the way, but unfortunately that work life mix isn’t quite as balanced as previously enjoyed and most of the time my kids now think I’m some distant relation who turns up stressed and grumpy just before bedtime. However, it doesn’t need to be that way and I’m still glad I took the leap, but I certainly wish I’d planned it better at the start, so that the point I’m at now might have been a smoother journey!

The Basics • Get a good set of Terms & Conditions – they’re invaluable and help you get paid!

• Insurance – COT include limited cover as part of membership, otherwise try Balens – www.balens. co.uk (COTSS-IP offer a discount for members!)

• Data protection – make sure you know what you have to do: www.ico.org.uk • Finances – most accountants offer an initial free consultation and then a set yearly fee service.

You can do it yourself with the help of a few spread sheets and folders, alternatively there’s some very cost effective online finance packages available... we use Freeagent and it’s a lifesaver!

• Make sure you create a business plan whilst you still have the time and energy (you wouldn’t start travelling to France without a map so why start a business without a plan?)

• Find a mentor at www.cot.co.uk/cpd/mentorship scheme or www.greatbusiness.gov.uk or get in touch with us to see how Inclusion.Me can help.

• COTSS-IP (The College of OTs Specialist Section - Independent Practice) - provides access to invaluable support and their ‘Take the leap’ training days help with fee setting and all the other essentials you’ll need: www.cotss-ip.org.uk ■ For more tips about life as an independent OT download the FREE guide produced by Inclusion.Me at: www.inclusion.me.uk/files/Independent_OT_Tips_WV0.pdf Alternatively, for information about the range of OT professional support

30 www.

Taking the Leap

offered by Inclusion.Me, including

If you’re tempted by life as a private OT, think about what services you’re going to offer & how you’re going to do it. Think goals, aims and objectives with grown up stuff like insurance and money thrown in.

OT tailored T&Cs packs & mentoring services, visit www.inclusion.me.uk or email info@inclusion.me.uk

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Active memory help for people living with dementia Seizure Detection Alarms

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26/02/2015 16:46

A Red Island M Dream The World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT) works to promote the value of occupational therapy to government organisations, non-governmental organisations and the wider community and as part of this work develops occupational therapy in countries where it doesn’t presently exist. One such example is the WFOT Project to help develop occupational therapy in Madagascar.

By Anri-Louise Oosthuizen (B.OT, M.ECI)

32 www.

adagascar, with its population of over 22 million people is one of the poorest countries of the world. In the face of poverty, disability solutions need to be creative, innovative and above all realistic. What better profession than occupational therapy to address some of these issues. With this in mind Growing the Nations Therapy Programmes (GNTP) was founded by a team of South Africans, including occupational therapist Anri-Louise Oosthuizen, with the aim of promoting the occupational therapy profession and developing therapy services.

On a national Malagasy level the push towards the development of better rehabilitation services gained momentum in 2010, when the need to develop occupational therapy and speech and language therapy services became part of the national health action plan.

This development was supported by the Christian Blind Mission (CBM) and partnerships started evolving to make the possibility of Malagasy educated occupational therapists in the public health system a reality.

The Ministry of Public Health and GNTP decided the first step in the process was to start a Malagasy occupational therapy association. This was done in a very unconventional manner, as there was only one occupational therapist in Madagascar in 2012, and she was an expatriate. Various doctors, active within the field of rehabilitation (physical conditions and mental health) were called to a meeting in February 2012, and by election a Malagasy board was designated to create AMET (Association Malagache pour l’ Ergotherapie).

The group of doctors, and one occupational therapist, agreed to act in the best interests of the profession, promote the development of an education program that meets the WFOT’s Minimum Standards for the Education of Occupational Therapists, and set systems in place to develop the profession, until such a time where Malagasy occupational therapists are qualified and can assume leadership of the association. At this point in time the World Federation of Occupational Therapists proved itself to be an open-minded, culturally sensitive front-runner of the profession, encouraging the development of AMET, not only on an advisory level, but supporting the development of AMET in a culturally appropriate manner. AMET has since received its associate membership of the WFOT, at the 2014 Council Meeting in Japan.

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wfot

Realising the great need for occupational therapy, GNTP started several small occupational therapy projects.

Projects were chosen based on serving the widest range of occupational therapy clients, providing Madagascar with local examples of what the profession can achieve.

With children under 14 being the largest part of the population, many of the services focus on paediatric conditions such as cerebral palsy, club feet, Down’s syndrome, autism, and learning difficulties. Stroke is one of the most prevalent adult conditions with occupational interventions aimed at community and family participation. International volunteers continue to play a key role in keeping these services running continually.

Discussions for starting an occupational therapy education program began in 2012. One of the first challenges was that the physiotherapy qualification was not a university degree. After many discussions AMET reached a consensus to promote a university level education program, in keeping with international developments and a merger bet ween the University of Antananarivo and the National Institute of Paramedical Training (INSPC) near the end of 2013 helped pave the way for this.

Discussions in early 2014 revealed that the University of Antananarivo already had started making plans to educate occupational therapists.

The WFOT became a strong professional voice at this point in time, strengthening AMET’s resolve to promote a baccalaureate program being developed in line with WFOT’s Minimum Standards for the Education of OTs. At this critical point in time, the WFOT made it possible for Samantha Shann (WFOT Vice President Finance with regional responsibilities for the African region) to visit Madagascar, and meet with various dignitaries in order to discuss the development of the education program.

The University of Antananarivo requested a sample curriculum to be written, with Madagascar in mind, to help them in their decision making. Together, Samantha Shann and Anri-Louise Oosthuizen developed the requested draft. This, and many discussions with AMET and the partners, influenced the University’s decision to start with a bachelors programme in occupational therapy.

Not only did Samantha’s visit help with decision making, but it also helped raise the visibility of occupational therapy, and prepared for the development of a Madagascar specific occupational therapy curriculum. CBM has now taken the role of a

key partner in this aspect of the development.

To enable the students to do clinical work in equipped, established occupational therapy services, GNTP in 2014 has established occupational therapy departments at 2 national hospitals. They also started a book-rally, collecting text books and journals to equip the university program with the necessary resources.

This venture was strongly supported by the whole international occupational therapy community, and promoted by the WFOT. For example on World OT Day 2014, students from Northumbria University in the UK organised a cake stall to raise money and were able to donate 3 occupational therapy text books.

WFOT are actively promoting book donations for Madagascar which are available to view and purchase via the link http://tinyurl.com/wfotbooksM or by using the postal address: Growing the Nations Therapy Programmes, BP52, Aeroport Ivato, Antananarivo, 105, Madagascar.

2015 The time has come for the dreams to come into a greater level of reality. On 20 January the first students started university, beginning their generic firstyear of health education. Later, in February, a curriculum writing workshop is planned with CBM and a partnering University, aiming at designing an education program that is meeting national needs and international standards. Once again, the WFOT is providing critical technical support in decision making.

Many ups and downs later, with two steps forward and one step back, the line has been crossed and there is no turning back. In the next few years, Madagascar will have its own, nationally qualified occupational therapists and hopefully become full members of the WFOT. ■

for more information Growing the Nations Therapy Programmes www.growingthenationstherapyprogrammes.com World Federation of Occupational Therapists www.wfot.org

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Elise Travel Buggy

The Elise Travel Buggy has a lightweight aluminum frame, is easy to transport and is also compact when collapsed.

It is the stroller with a trendy design that offers children all the comfort they need.

Available now with a wide range of accessories and upgrades to enhance comfort and practicality.

Van Os Medical UK Excel House | Ashbrooke Park | Sherburn in Elmet | North Yorkshire, England | LS256 PJ Tel.+44 (0) 1977 681 400 | sales@vanosmedical.com

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product focus

Product focus

We bring you a further selection of products to aid independent living and to help those who need additional support

Lift ‘n’ Rise Chair Amplicomms SA-40 Amplified Bluetooth Headset The SA-40 Amplified Bluetooth Headset can assist those who struggle to hear conversations on their mobile phones.

Amplifying every word so it’s loud and clear, calls can be up to 100 times louder than regular phone calls.

Using Bluetooth the SA-40 will pair to almost any device including iPads and iPhones. It can be used as a headset or hands free speakerphone and for calls in the car it has a handy sun visor clip.

For people with T-Coil hearing aids, it featues a T-Coil mode, so private conversations are clearer with crisp sounds sent direct to hearing aids, cutting out interference.

For added clarity of sound there is adjustable Tone control. It has a reach of up to 30 feet away from the device of origin, depending on the area. ■

The Tyler range of chairs and sofas is a collaboration between La-Z-Boy UK and Mammoth Technologies, which is set to bring genuine physiological benefits to the lives of anyone with mobility problems.

La-Z-Boy is famed for its innovation in recliners and motion furniture and Mammoth is synonymous with its unique Medical Grade Foam, which has led to its mattresses being clinically proven to offer a better night’s sleep.

mobility problems. Its patented, nil entrapment frame-in-frame design ensures that the mechanism is kept safely enclosed at all times and independent motors allow the leg rest to be raised with, or without, the back reclined. Importantly, the chair features a back-up battery power supply in case of a mains power failure, meaning that users would still be able to operate the chair in the case of a fault with the electrical power supply. ■

The Tyler range comprises a Lift ‘n’ Rise chair, along with a threeseater, two-seater, and chair, which are available as power or latch recliners or static models.

All options are available in the full range of La-Z-Boy fabrics and leathers. Mammoth’s Medical Grade Foam is incorporated in all surfaces of the chair which come into contact with the user.

Prices available on request.

For enquiries contact david.winter@furnico.com or marketing@mammothuk.com

See the Tyler range at Naidex on Stand C83

The Lift ‘n’ Rise model features particular benefits for users with

Prices from £90 Connevans Ltd 01737 247571 www.deafequipment.co.uk

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product focus

Button Hook and Zip Puller Ideal for people who lack fine motor co-ordination or have use of only one hand, this handy gadget will help save time and hassle when dressing yourself.

It comprises a shaped hook for pulling buttons through their holes and a ‘C’ hook at the other end for pulling zips up easily. A simple tool that can ensure a person’s independence in dressing. ■ Prices from £5.25 Independence Ltd 01353 667 722 sales@independence.ltd.uk www.independence.ltd.uk Visit Patterson Medical Ltd at Naidex on Stand B83

Spilly

Spoon

Designed to introduce a fun element to what can be a stressful situation, this award winning non-spill medical spoon makes administering medicine easy and spill-free. Simply pour the medicine into the plastic tube and tip as necessary. The tube means that individuals don’t have to take all the medicine in one go and also allows them to administer it themselves if they want.

The Spilly Spoon can be sat on a flat surface if you need to pick up your child and its colourful design and tactile shape will make medicating much easier. ■ Prices from £4.99, Spilly Spoon info@spillyspoon.com www.spillyspoon.com

36 www.

StairSteady An innovative, discreet product, which helps people to use the stairs safely and independently.

This product is ideal for individuals who have some difficulty getting up and down the stairs but do not yet require a stairlift, a perfect complementary product to rollators, walking frames and raised toilet seats.

The device is made up of a handrail attached to the wall and a handle that provides support whilst climbing the stairs. The handle locks into position when weight is applied, allowing the individual to pull themselves up and slide the handrail to climb to the next step. It works in the same way coming down, providing additional security and support. Its simple design makes it non-intrusive in the home as the handle easily folds away

discreetly when not in use.

Young Sheffield engineer and entrepreneur Ruth Amos designed the StairSteady when she was just 15, as part of resistant materials GCSE. Ruth’s invention took off as a fullyfledged commercial product in the wake of her success in the 2006 Young Engineer for Britain competition. Ruth launched her own Sheffield-based business, StairSteady Ltd, to sell and develop this groundbreaking product. The company has developed to become a successful family-run business, and the StairSteady is distributed in the UK by Patterson Medical Ltd. ■ Prices available on request Patterson Medical Ltd 08444 124 330 www.pattersonmedical.co.uk

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Dignity Adult Feeding Cup The Dignity Adult Feeding Cup is the ideal drinking or feeding solution for older people and those who have disabilities as it is designed to give the user improved control as they drink. The cups have two large, easy to grip handles that allow the user to gain a secure grip, which aids the user’s confidence and the spout helps to regulate the flow of the liquid and is also suitable for semi solid liquids. The partial covering of the spout also reduces the chances of spillages and splashes. It is suitable for both use in the dishwasher and microwave and is available in a range of colours. ■ Prices from £7.74 Complete Care Shop, 0845 5194 734 sales@completecareshop.co.uk www.completecareshop.co.uk

Folding Maximo Mobility Scooter Mobility scooter specialist, TGA Mobility, is launching the new folding Maximo mobility scooter at Naidex this year.

The Maximo builds on the excellent features of its predecessor, the Minimo, providing users with a compact, lightweight folding mobility scooter that can fit in the boot of a car.

The Maximo offers users a larger 4-wheel version that has a weight capacity of up to 17.5 stone (115kg) and a maximum speed of 8mph. It is designed to offer more comfort and features for the user and can be collapsed with one hand with no parts to be dismantled or stored away.

when tackling uneven surfaces such as mounting kerbs at an angle. The powerful 270w motor and high quality S-Drive controller provide significant

performance with a range of up to 12.5 miles (20km). ■ Prices available on request TGA Mobility, 01787 882 244 www.tgamobility.co.uk Visit TGA Mobility at Naidex on Stand B70

Despite its longer and wider chassis (580 x 1160mm respectively) the Maximo can be easily stored in the boot of an estate car or 4x4 for wider owner freedom with peace of mind. The Maximo ride is one of the smoothest available through the integration of fully active, all-round suspension and pneumatic tyres.

These and the anti-tip castors ensure safety and stability www.

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personal experience

O

ccupational therapy was a profession I knew I wanted to have my career in from an early age. During school, I based work experience around occupational therapy and was delighted when I gained a place at the University of Liverpool in 2000 to complete the three year degree, graduating with a BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy degree in 2003.

Return to Practice -

Immediately after completing my degree, I began a two year rotational post in an acute hospital, working on the medical wards and completing six monthly rotations in orthopaedics, surgery, rheumatology and medicine for the elderly. After two years, I applied for a Band 6 position in Neurology and Neurosurgery at another Trust and was lucky enough to secure the job. It was from there that I moved to a Band 7 position within Pain Management and thoroughly enjoyed my job.

By Claire Rooney

As a dedicated OT for eight years, I unfortunately had to leave the profession due to severe depression following the tragic loss of my father to cancer. It was a personal decision to have a ‘career break’ as I needed the time to grieve and seek ›

A personal experience

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personal experience

› appropriate professional support. Although it was an extremely difficult decision to leave a profession and a job and colleagues I adored, I felt that I could not provide my patients with the care and support they needed if I was not well myself. As identified by Wisenthal and Krupa (2013), the impact of depression on cognitive function can include ‘impairments in concentration, memory, attention, and decision making. These problems can interfere with the ability to meet the cognitive, emotional and behavioural demands of a job’. My patients will always be my priority and to be the occupational therapist they deserved, I knew I needed time to deal with my grief.

During my time of recovery, there was no doubt in my mind that I wanted to return to occupational therapy. Once fully recovered, and with excellent suppor t from my UNISON representative, I began to seek out the journey I needed to embark on to return to practice.

Dodds and Herkt (2013) found ‘the conditions that enabled participants’ successful return to practice included a strong sense of professional connectedness (sense of belonging and social connectedness to the profession) professional identity, accessibility to resources, and flexibility of employment options’.

A review of the literature with regards to return to practice demonstrated how ‘helping service users to return to work has emerged as a key therapeutic objective of the Improving Access to Therapies (IAPT) initiative’ (Wesson and Gould 2010). This emphasises how return to practice forms an intricate part of the recovery process.

After attending a hearing in OT Headquarters, the HCPC outlined that if a health professional takes a career break for up to five years, the requirement to return to practice is 15 days of clinical observation and 15 days of private study as well as evidence of working within a caring capacity, either volunteering or paid employment.

My biggest concern initially was not being up to date with current issues and developments affecting my profession. The support from the COT was invaluable. I attended a day course in Bangor on ‘BAOT Welsh Region Lifelong Event’ and despite this not being in my region of practice, the skills and knowledge it provided was 40

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immense. It was an invaluable ‘refresher’ course courtesy of BAOT, which marked the beginning of my private study portfolio. Each month, I checked all of the events in the BAOT journals and OT News. It surprised me how many of these courses are free to members, which was a great benefit to me since I was not working. From this I attended the Inclusion, Independent, Choice (IIC) show in Manchester Central. This consisted of an array of stalls and product demonstration areas that really enhanced my knowledge and brought me up to speed with the fantastic latest evolution of designs and technology which are available to enhance a service users’ quality of life. In addition to this, I attended an excellent course entitled ‘Induction for the British Association and College of Occupational Therapists Professional Networks’. As I had been ‘out of the loop’ with regards to recent developments and pertinent points involving Allied Health Professionals, this course was fantastic in refreshing the workings of the NHS and within government, plus, the added bonus of an in-depth discussion into the support the COT/BAOT can offer members - ranging from students to qualified staff, and those returning to practice. The subsequent presentation from a union representative during the course served the purpose of enlightening our group on the recent developments with regards to Agenda for Change and how this may impact on us as a profession.

As I had been personally affected by depression, I decided to join Merseycare mental health services and attended regular Trust board meetings and events where I could talk to professionals and service users alike. It was during one of these events that I was fortunate enough to meet an OT who was part of the Merseycare ‘Recovery College’- a service provided to patients which ran regular courses such as confidence building, communication skills etc. There were also courses, accredited by the Open University which were free and did not require a referral from a GP. I applied to the college and secured a place on a 5 day Open University course near to my home on ‘Facilitating Groups within Diverse Environments’, and a ‘Train the Trainer’ course. During the course, I met fantastic students and built up my confidence and knowledge in teaching life skills to others. The course culminated in a ten minute ‘micro presentation’ to my fellow peers

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and a 3,000 word assignment to submit to the Open University, which I had three months to complete within my own time. Since then, I have also signed up for another course by the Open University in being a ‘Peer Support Worker’.

It was by engaging in the Recovery College that I was able to organise my 15 days of clinical observation within a mental health setting, where I will be working with adults who have mental illnesses. This will enable me to hone in on my basic OT skills, find my inner confidence and feel like part of a team again. It will feel like being a student again, doing daily reflections and asking questions, but different in the sense that I will be refreshing knowledge I had previously, and build upon my confidence and belief in myself as an occupational therapist.

In addition to regaining skills and knowledge within the mental health setting, I felt that I needed to refresh my skills within the physical setting so I could have a rounded view of occupational therapy in practice.

of Occupational Therapists) to keep myself up to date and submerged in the latest therapy news from around the globe.

My advice to all therapists returning to practice is, without question, utilise the COT for advice and support. Regularly read the BJOT and OT News for various courses you can attend. Many of them are free to BAOT members and provide invaluable knowledge and skills. From this, you can build a portfolio which will look professional and in-depth, as well as providing you with the information you require, building that confidence and enabling you to engage in the

My patients will always be my priority and to be the occupational therapist they deserved, I knew I needed time to deal with my grief To fulfil this, I contacted hospitals I had worked in previously as both a student and a qualified therapist.

I will hopefully be working as a therapy assistant in an acute hospital doing bank work and assisting both occupational therapists and physiotherapists. Alongside part time paid employment, I volunteered for the ‘Home from Hospital’ scheme for another hospital.

Within this role, I visited patients who had recently been discharged from hospital and assisted them with chores such as shopping, paying bills, picking prescriptions up, housework and making phone calls. The volunteering provided me with regular training and also enabled me to carry out my visits around my other activities.

Meeting and working with patients was thoroughly enjoyable and boosted my confidence further.

During my time at home, I busied myself with online courses. I was amazed by how many online courses are completely free of charge. I enrolled with Vision2Learn, an online course with regular online support from an assigned tutor/mentor, and successfully completed a Level 2 BTEC in Equality and Diversity. As an understanding of Equality and Diversity is part of the occupational therapy mandatory training, it helped refresh my prior knowledge in this area and feel more confident in my understanding. There are also courses in infection control and other areas pertinent to health professionals. I also joined the WFOT (World Federation

profession and feel ready to restart your career again following a period of absence.

So, for all the OTs out there who have taken a career break, for whatever the reason, don’t worry- the support is immense! Contact the COT for all the network support and advice you require. Get in touch with colleagues you have worked with in the past, attend courses and events, and engage in online courses that you can do at your own pace. Despite it seeming a daunting task returning to OT, I am doing it and so can you. ■

References Baptiste S, Biais P, Brenchley C.L, Sauve D.E, McMahon P.A, Rangachari U (2010) Supporting (re) entry to professional practice: The SEPP project.

Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy, 77(3), 144-147.

Dodds K, Herkt J (2013) Exploring transition back to occupational therapy practice following a career break. New Zealand Journal of Occupational Therapy. 60(2) 5-12.

Ikezawa Y, Battie C.M, Beach J, Gross D (2010) Do Clinicians Working Within the Same Context Make Consistent Return-to-Work Recommendations?

Journal of Occupational Therapy Rehabilitation (20) 367-377.

Wesson M, Gould M (2010) Can a ‘return-to-work’ agenda fit within the theory and practice of CBT for depression and anxiety disorders? The Cognitive Behaviour Therapist, 3. 27-42.

Wisenthal A, Krupa T (2013) Cognitive work hardening: A return-to-work intervention for people with depression. Work (45) 423-430.

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HORIZONSTANDARD

straight and simple

The new HORIZON STANDARD boasts the essential features of the Platinum Horizon, now at a lower price point. Simple to price, easy to install and featuring a new compact seat, the Horizon Standard can accommodate users up to 120kg (19st).

• Folding seat pad, arms and footrest

• Manual lever-linked seat swivel

• Maximum user weight 120kg (19st)

• Manual footrest with safety edge

• Rail angles 25° to 55°

• Key lockable for security

• Joystick control

• Lap seat belt

• Digital diagnostic display in carriage

• Optional powered hinge rail

• Infra-red remote controls

• Optional Horizon outdoor kit

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26/02/2015 16:47

NAIDEX

Occupational Therapist Zone evolves at

O

cc u pat i o n a l t h e r a p y n e e d s w i l l t a k e c e n t re stage this year with the return of Naidex 2015, hosting a range of new features and learning opportunities, including the new OTnewsLive seminar area in the COT Zone from the College of Occupational Therapists. Taking place from 28 to 30 April at NEC Birmingham, Naidex is the UK’s largest independent living and mobility show. It is fully CPDaccredited, free to attend and expects over 10,000 visitors.

Naidex is the only national exhibition of its kind that draws together consumers, health and social care professionals plus specialist manufacturers, retailers Visit and public sector purchasers. The exhibition and The OT conference offers the latest thinking, strategies Magazine at and solutions to support the ageing population, Stand D126 those affected by, or living with, disabilities.

developments in occupational therapy services, inspired by issues covered in the college’s member magazine.

The COT Zone, which launched last year, has a restricted admission criteria aimed only at occupational therapists – they responded positively to the conference and features in the COT Zone last year. This year it will be enhanced by the addition of OTnewsLive.

The COT Zone boasts two theatres which run educational programmes delivered by the college. The college’s leading edge seminars are an ideal opportunity for practitioners with a hectic schedule to learn more about practice and get up to speed with new policy.

The COT Zone programme includes student-focused seminars, workshops and professional surgeries with college staff. Guests can expect to hear from Sue Adams OBE, chief executive of Care and Repair England who will focus on home adaptations, the Care Act and the Better Care Fund.

There will also be a session led by Janet Lillie, crossorganisational head of occupational therapy, Torbay and Southern Devon Health and Care Trust on How Occupational Therapy is meeting the integration vision.

The annual event provides the perfect platform for occupational therapists to network with each other, as well as with influential speakers and leading suppliers of equipment and services.

The Conference OTnewsLive will launch in the College of Occupational Therapists COT Zone at Naidex this year. Seminars within OTnewsLive will cover the latest thinking and

The Multidisciplinary Theatre programme provides a broad range of practical healthcare support from HCPC registered professionals, which (along with all Naidex seminars) will provide certificates of attendance to fulfil CPD requirements. The seminars are aimed at carers, end users and health and social care professionals and will focus on moving and handling, telecare and › dementia care. www.

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Free Product Awareness Events for OTs

Save your service user up to 40% off a Mangar product with our OT Referral Programme Do you have a service user who doesn’t fit Local Authority criteria, but would benefit from owning a Mangar product?

Use our OT Referral Programme and your patients could get up to 40% off RRP, which could mean a £200 discount.

Have a chat with your patient to assess their need and, once you’ve decided on a product, either complete the form on one of our leaflets or download one online.

Want to know more?

Call now on 0800 2800 485

We’re currently offering free demonstrations of our inflatable moving, handling and bathing equipment, so you can see for yourself what a difference they’d make.

Our Customer Relations Coordinator can arrange an event in your workplace, or source an off-site venue if it’s more convenient.

Product Awareness Events (lunch included) usually run over half a day, during which a Mangar representative will provide an overview of our bathing and manual handling products, before you get to try them for yourself.

This is a no obligation opportunity for you to assess how you and your clients might use our products. As part of our follow-up service, we can also arrange for further demonstrations with any of your individual service users.

Want to know more or arrange for a FREE Demonstration?

Call now on 0800 2800 485 or email : sales@mangar.co.uk

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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.

For more information, please call Stannah now on 01264 384741 OT magazine.indd 1

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NAIDEX

› Specific sessions will target carers and health and social care professionals, such as ‘Making the care environment dementia friendly’, led by Jilly Polson, dementia lead associate at Dementia Services Development Centre. The session, which is likely to be popular, covers the HCPC’s standards for continuing professional development by Jonathan Jones, stakeholder communications manager at The Health and Care Professions Council.

The Multidisciplinary Theatre will also host celebrity speaker Hannah Cockroft MBE, T34 Paralympic wheelchair racer and Olympic gold medallist. Hannah will discuss methods to enable independent living and will be available for a Q&A session after her talk.

The exhibition Naidex provides the opportunity for occupational therapists to test and compare the latest developments in paediatric equipment, daily living aids, mobility and transport.

There will be a wealth of exhibitors this year, with many returning from 2014, including AKW, Patterson Medical, Pride Mobility, and ArjoHuntleigh.

Visitors can also expect to find new exhibitors for 2015 including health and education assessment tool developers Pearson. The new telmenow.com service will also launch at Naidex, offering a range of approved technology products and services to support independent living, offering peace of mind for individuals and their carers. Exhibitors Arjohuntleigh, Joerns, Daily Care Ltd., SK Handling, Abacus Healthcare, Chiltern Invadex and Prism Medical UK will all be exhibiting moving and handling products.

New and returning features Disabled Living Foundation’s (DLF) flagship conference, Moving & Handling People, will also launch at this year’s show. This conference will mark the start of an exciting new partnership between i2i Events Group and the DLF. Moving & Handling People is a two-day CPD accredited conference (29 and 30 April 2015) priced at £275, which takes place within Naidex (access to Naidex is free). This flagship conference will offer more learning opportunities for visiting healthcare professionals.

The conference is a further draw to Naidex, providing interactive workshops with a focus on safeguarding standards and the future of moving and handling people. Demonstration sessions that deal with a diverse range of topics have recently been announced including, ‘Milestones and Millstones’ which will review legal cases and current legislation in terms of the implications for the future of moving and handling people.

The popular Car Zone, returns for 2015 and is already sold out. For the second year, it includes a test drive area where visitors have the option to test motorised scooters and wheelchairs. New products will be featured in the Innovation Trail, while the Market Place will offer a range of products on a smaller-scale for visitors to take home. ■

REGISTER FOR FREE ENTRY Naidex 2015 takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, from 28 to 30 April 2015.

To register for your free entry ticket and for more information go to www. naidex.co.uk. Delegate bookings for the DLF conference, which costs £275 plus VAT, are available via a dedicated website www.movingandhandlingpeople.co.uk. For more information on the COT

There will also be advice available at the exhibition from organisations such as Health Design & Technology Institute, the RNIB Pears Centre for Specialist Learning, the National Back Exchange and the Health and Care Professions Council.

Zone and a timetable visit www.naidex.co.uk/Content/COT-Zone. * The COT Zone’s content is tailored to the needs of occupational therapists, therefore only Occupational Therapists will be permitted entry to these sessions.

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Occupational Therapy Services Barts Health NHS Trust offers amazing opportunities for senior Occupational Therapists interested in enhancing and developing their career whilst enjoying life in the vibrant and exciting east end of London.

Barts Health NHS Trust is the largest hospital Trust in the United Kingdom. Located in East London it incorporates six hospitals and employs 15000 staff. We are looking for experienced and dynamic occupational therapists for a range of positions across our hospitals. If you are interested in developing your OT skills whilst providing excellent care in a rewarding environment with a large supportive team of therapists, Barts Health NHS trust is the place for you.

We have over 400 staff within our therapy teams based across our hospital sites St Bartholomew’s Hospital, Royal London Hospital, Whipps Cross Hospital and Newham University Hospital. The size and diversity of services provided by the Trust allows the unique opportunity to continue to grow and professionally develop within your career. We have a proven track record of supporting Occupational Therapists who have started their career at Barts Health NHS Trust to progress to senior grades.

The Trust has an Occupational Therapy training programmes and peer support and at Band 5, Band 6 and Band 7 levels. We have specific programmes within the trust aimed a developing clinical academic careers for Occupational Therapists at Barts Health NHS Trust.

For further information please contact us: OTRecruitment-Information@bartshealth.nhs.uk

Barts Health: Changing Lives

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SPECIAL NEEDS

Embracing O Challenges supporting families Occupational therapist, Louise Baudet, talks about her work with special needs families and shares the work that Warwickshire based support group, Embrace Special Needs Friendship Group, have been doing to support children with special needs and their families

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ne of the reasons I’m passionate about our profession is that we can use the unique skillset we have as occupational therapists to support people overcoming difficulties in their lives and to move forward positively. The ability to support someone to cope with challenges and make changes for a better future is something intensely rewarding and satisfying.

My work with special needs families first began as a personal journey following my son’s diagnosis of autism and the difficulties we faced as a family in all areas of everyday life, such as eating, sleeping, school, friendships and behaviour. It soon became obvious that I wasn’t the only parent facing the same challenges and how difficult life could be for both the child and the carer.

Challenges Many families with a special needs child will experience both positive and negative experiences and emotions, but the one thing that remains constant are the daily challenges faced by both the child and family whilst trying to live ordinary lives. Families can often ›

27/02/2015 13:25

SPECIAL NEEDS

› feel isolated and unsupported, feel they don’t have the skills and knowledge to cope with their caring role and are often afraid of what the future holds for all family members. In addition to this their lifestyles often change dramatically and they frequently experience occupational imbalance trying to balance the caring role alongside other roles. For some parents they have to either fully or partially give up employment, a decision that brings with it a loss of identity, loss of income and reduced social contact. They find they may no longer have the time or money to enjoy a healthy balance of leisure activities, which in turn can lead to loss of confidence, low self-esteem and other health problems such as anxiety and depression.

Recognising the huge impact that having a special needs child can have on both the child and the family and their ability to engage in meaningful occupation,

and share their expertise. Operating in a rural area of Warwickshire, families often had limited access to services and the group was pro-active in networking with local services and also getting their voice heard by statutory services by engaging in consultations – providing an important mechanism to influence and change local policies and procedures.

Projects Responding to a range of needs identified by the parents, a number of projects have been set up over the years which have received local and national grant funding. One such project is Playdays, a Special Needs Toy Library and lunch group which was funded by Awards for All and Children in Need. Playdays provides an environment where children can play and socialise with other children, and practice those all important social and communication skills in a supportive and

Above left: Santa Claus making a visit to give presents to the children Above right: Children playing at an Embrace event

the Embrace Special Needs Friendship Group was set up five years ago as a self help support group. The group provides a safe place where parents can have a few hours respite from their caring role and meet other carers in the same situation. It gives an opportunity to form new friendships and talk about not just common problems but also positive experiences. By sharing knowledge and experiences parents are able to support each other, which helps them cope and adapt to the changes in their lives. What quickly became evident was that the group provided a vehicle through which parents were empowered to identify the challenges they faced and provide solutions to their problems at both a micro and macro level. For example, there were many common areas where children struggled with everyday activities such as eating, sleeping, toileting, managing anxiety, social communication and managing friendships. As well as sharing experiences and knowledge with each other, parents organised local organisations or professionals to talk to the group 48

www.

non-judgemental environment. The children who use Playdays have a wide range of conditions such as autism, Down’s syndrome, Cerebral Palsy and ADHD and they enjoy the opportunity to make friends in a supported environment. The project employs two Play Workers who support the children with their social communication and behaviour, ensuring that it is a positive experience for all the children. The children have access to a range of toys which support them with all areas of their development, for example the range of life skills toys helps them develop their fine motor skills such as doing shoelaces or buttons.

Sensory assessments are undertaken for the children, who can then benefit from the stimulation of sensory activities available, for example activities for tactile stimulation, to enhance visual and auditory skills and also proprioceptive skills.

Families also enjoy sharing a lunch together enabling them to spend quality family time together, but also

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allowing the children to benefit from shared mealtimes and using their social interaction skills. As well as the regular Toy Libraries, the group has also linked up with the local Children’s Centre offering Special Needs Stay and Play sessions during the school holidays.

Parents are able to borrow the toys free of charge and also use a range of resources for themselves such as books, dvd’s and resource packs. One of the key benefits of the service is that it is provided free of charge, something that really helps parents who may be struggling financially particularly when they can’t afford to be buying lots of toys and books. Special Needs Toys are traditionally very expensive, and sometimes a child may only need it for a short time or parents may want to try a piece of equipment out to see how their child gets on with it, before going out and buying it. With no other projects in the region offering the same provision,

they soothe, comfort and calm just by their presence therefore reducing levels of anxiety and stress. The farm has a number of therapy donkeys and the children particularly enjoy interacting with these.

Children are also able to participate in horticultural therapy, which is a process of using plants and gardens to improve physical and mental health, as well as communication and thinking skills. Most of the food that is grown, children are able to use through cooking activities so they can enjoy the food they have grown.

Helping Families Embrace Special Needs Friendship Group works holistically with families, not just addressing the needs of the child, but the family as a unit. It’s work continues to grow year-on-year and there are a number of projects currently being developed. These include setting up Circles of Support for group members who are particularly isolated and struggling. Originally a concept from America, a circle of people link together to support a family achieve a lifestyle that works for them and

By sharing knowledge and experiences parents are able to support each other, which helps them cope and adapt

Louise Baudet

the project has attracted a lot of media interest with television and newspaper coverage, as well as filming by Children in Need and live interviews.

Embracing Nature 2014 saw the launch of the ‘Time for Me’ project through a local facility called The Secret Garden, a rural farm which primarily works with special schools and offers a range of interactive animal, nature and horticultural based activities. Grant funding of £10,000 was secured from Awards for All to fund the project giving the children from Embrace an opportunity to follow a structured therapy programme at weekends and during the holidays. With the support of specially trained workers the children are encouraged to independently plan and carry out tasks around the farm according to their ability levels. The children think this is wonderful as they get to be ‘farmers’ for the day by doing activities such as collecting eggs, cleaning out the pigs or feeding the lambs. There is a wide evidence base on the use of animals for therapeutic purposes, as

provide long term support. The activities programme for children and adolescents is being expanded to include more opportunities for social interaction and also engagement in arts, crafts, music and sports. In addition, there will be activity sessions for siblings, giving them their own time and space away from the family environment where their own needs can be met.

According to the Papworth Trust (2010) there are about 770,000 children under the age of 16 in the UK with a disability, which is 6% of the child population.

Groups such as Embrace are creating a lifeline for families, enabling them to overcome the obstacles and challenges they face and take control of their lives to create a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. ■ For more information please visit www.embrace-specialneeds.co.uk

www.

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27/02/2015 13:26

light, compact & portable The Aquarius Porta-Bidet is an innovative battery operated (rechargeable), portable and travel friendly bidet that allows the user luxury and comfort of a regulated spray wash wherever they may be.

explore your senses 2015

It’s light, compact, slim, stylish design focuses on ease of use whilst it’s powerful pulsing wash nozzle improves personal hygiene, well being and dignity.

Unlike plumbed bidets the Aquarius needs no tradesmen to plumb or wire before use, and also allows you to add emollients or approved medication to the reservoir of water which is a huge step forward in bathroom care. It will fit virtually any toilet, be it at home, hotel, caravan, cruise ship or when visiting friends. Pack it into your suitcase for holidays or weekends away.

FREEPHONE: 0800 064 4454 (option 4) www.aquariushygiene.com

@AquariusHygiene

info@aquariushygiene.com

Harrison Training is a well-established leader in providing occupational therapists with a wide range of high quality continuing professional development (CPD) services. Run and delivered by occupational therapists, we understand the context, relevance and knowledge required to support competent practice.

Services include: ➢ Skills-based, cost effective in-service training courses, covering most areas of practice ➢ Bespoke workforce development, e.g. enablement, or outcome measurement ➢ Mentoring or supervision – for services or individuals ➢ Career development to include skills profiling, self-development tools, resources ➢ Consultancy - e.g. service reviews, specialist programme implementation, research ➢ An e-CPD portfolio for secure and easy record keeping - providing templates, summaries, appraisal documents, and multiple resources

www.cpdol.co.uk

Please contact us for more information:

info@harrisontraining.co.uk // www.harrisontraining.co.uk

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26/02/2015 16:48

childrens products

Childrens

Product focus

We take a look at some of the innovative products available for children with disabilities

Chewigem Jewellery Chewigem is chewable jewellery designed to meet the needs of adults and children who have the need to chew. The jewellery is a nontoxic, stylish and effective way of meeting this need. Using safe,

medical grade silicone the gems are available in a wide range of designs and colours, making it a more discreet aid than many currently available on the market. Whilst originally designed for teething children, the gems are popular with those with sensory difficulties who

Junior

The Junior chair by Jenx is a comfortable, contoured and stable seating system designed to suit the needs of children between 18mths-12 years. It offers children highly flexible supportive seating, with an outstanding level of versatility, achieved with a wide range of head, trunk, leg and foot support options.

The contoured base with memory foam insert provides unparalleled comfort and true pelvic stability. Moulded in antimicrobial PU, the Junior is easily cleaned with no issues of liquid becoming absorbed into the foam.

may find chewing to be calming and can often help combat sensory overload in children with autism. ■ Prices from £3.95 Chewigem, 01382 581057 info@gumigem.co.uk, www.chewigem.co.uk

Available in a range of colours, covers can be washed and optional padded back covers are now also available for increased comfort, or alternatively a wipe clean PU seat hygiene cover is also available in black. The Junior offers conventional, reclined and Tilt-in-Space settings and two different base options, both of which are height adjustable allowing children to enjoy activities from floor level to breakfast bar height. ■ Prices available on request Jiraffe - UK distributor of Jenx Products For all the info contact hello@jiraffe.org.uk 0114 285 3376 - jiraffe.org.uk

www.

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27/02/2015 13:52

The Safety Sleeper The Safety Sleeper is a fully enclosed and portable bed system designed for children and adults who suffer from a diagnosis such as autism, Angelman Syndrome, epilepsy, Down’s syndrome, Smith Magenis Syndrome, cerebral palsy, Alzheimer’s and dementia and other special needs diagnoses where night-time wandering or injury from high night-time mobility is an issue. Due to safety features, it also removes any entrapment fears for individuals who suffer from night-time seizures or injure themselves when falling out of bed.

The Safety Sleeper is suitable for daily, respite and travel use with a 10 minute assembly without tools and folds down into a rolling suitcase (supplied) at only 16.5kg (incl. air mattress). It can be used on the floor or attached to a bed frame, incl. profile beds.

Sleep deprivation can be devastating for a family and with The Safety Sleeper, parents can have a better, more restful sleep helping their health and well-being. ■

Visit The Safety Sleeper at Naidex on Stand D129A

Prices available on request.

The Safety Sleeper, 0131 450 7124 www.thesafetysleeper.co.uk

Worry Eaters Worry eaters are appealing plush characters that are ideal for helping young children articulate their anxieties and seek help to overcome them. Children can write or draw something they’re upset about and zip it up into the mouth of one of these funny characters.

Available in four different characters, these furry monsters are a great way to approach difficult subjects.

52 www.

(C 2014 Helle Freud – Licensed by KIDDINX Media GmbH, Berlin www.sorgenfressor.com) ■ Prices from £12.49 Sorgenfresser Worry Eater 0345 257 0849, customerservices@ sensetoys.com www.sensetoys.com

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26/02/2015 22:23

Scooot

This child’s mobility chair for little explorers looks more like a toy than a special needs chair.

Brightly coloured with a rainbow belt, it has three configuration options to choose from: wheels on, wheels off and crawling position.

the boundaries of movement.

With the wheels detached your child has the opportunity to build strength in their lower body by pushing the chair themselves or alternatively they can adopt a crawling position with Scooot placed under the chest.

the freedom to explore, help themselves to toys and play freely.

Easy to manoeuvre on tiles, wooden floors and carpet, this is a chair to have fun in and push

Scooot gives the user a sense of independence; instead of being left sitting they will have

Prices from - £195, Firefly

Changing the position is very straight forward and only requires an alan key. Give your child a new sense of freedom and joy with Scooot. ■

enquiries@fireflyfriends.com www.fireflyfriends.com

Quoddy - A bed that grows All children want a bed that is fun! The Quoddy will support all their needs and still won’t look any different from a conventional bed. The Quoddy is a fully profiling and high/low bed. Choose your theme and the frame will be colour coordinated. We currently have a wide selection of different themes or you can choose your own theme of your choice. A paediatric bed needs to fit the child and ours certainly do. Gaps in the bed are the primary concern

when choosing a bed for a child, Centrobed have made sure there are NO GAPS that can put a child at risk of entrapment. The bed is made to fit the child with the backrest and knee-break bending in the correct place. The Quoddy expands from 60” to 72” in a further 2 stages by expanding the head rest and knee break. ■ Product code: QUO Width: 30” (76cm) Length: 60” (152cm), 66” (168cm), 72” (183cm) Weight Limit: 18 Stone (114 kilos) Optional Extras: Side Rails, Colour, Themed Panels, Hoops and Bumpers Prices available on request

Visit Centrobed at Naidex on Stand B12

Centrobed, 01233 635 353 sales@centrobed.com www.centrobed.com

Nest Swing The nest swing is designed to offer children a safe and comfortable space where they can hide away to read a book or simply take a breather from their environment. The nest swing comes with a large soft cushion and children can feel reassured and snug as they gently swing in comfort. The swing is suitable for ages 3-9 years. ■ Visit Prices from £102 Rompa, 01246 211 777, customer.service@rompa.com, www.rompa.com

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Rompa at Naidex on Stand E139

27/02/2015 13:55

Raz shower chair The stainless steel, height adjustable modular shower chair

Scan me to request a brochure or call 01634 813388 to arrange a demo

built to last

OT Magazine 133x92 Quarter page ad:Layout 1

2/2/15

11:42

Page 1

Walking Trolley The new household trolley, designed in conjunction with occupational therapists and physiotherapists exclusively for NRS Healthcare provides a safer alternative to a conventional trolley for those with reduced mobility.

To ďŹ nd out more, email: marketing@nrs-uk.co.uk www.nrs-uk.co.uk 0845 121 8111

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26/02/2015 16:49

student advice

Student advice

Getting started with assignments

P

rocrastination is not a student’s best friend. Are you reading this column instead of writing your assignment? Deadline looming?

Is the page still blank? You’re not alone. Dawn Fraser offers some advice to get you started.

In sitting down to write this column the biggest problem I faced was simply getting started. I’m not going to tell you how to write the perfect assignment, but hopefully some of the questions I ask will prompt your thinking and help you on your way.

Planning So you have an assignment deadline - have you made a schedule? Do you know what the assessment c r ite r i a is ? D o yo u understand it?

If you don’t, then check with the appropriate t u t o r. O n c e y o u’re sure you understand the assessment criteria then create an assignment plan. I start every assignment knowing I’ll need an introduction, a conclusion and a middle section that covers the assessment criteria.

I then ask myself ‘how am I going to cover each individual criteria?’ ‘Have I got all the information I need?’ ‘Do I need to do some more research?’ ‘Have I read enough of the literature?’ Don’t fall into the trap of thinking you need to read everything about a subject- there’s just not enough time. Be selective and choose the most credible sources.

You may have several assignments on the go, often students tell me they can only focus on one at a time. This is a big mistake. Research shows that writers who take the little and often approach are far more productive and achieve more. Scheduling time daily for working on assignments helps you keep track of your thoughts

and reduce the amount of time needed to re-focus each time you sit down to write.

Now Get Writing So, you have a plan, you have a schedule, it’s time to start writing. We only get better at things by ‘doing’.

Unfortunately, if you procrastinate the only thing you will become better at is not doing anything at all. It’s important to allow enough time for several drafts before submission of your work. Make the most of the support systems available. Find a friend who can proof read your work and provide feedback. It’s useful to submit a draft of your work to a tutor to check you are on the right lines. Ensure you know the referencing fo r m at yo ur p lace of study uses, most use the Harvard referencing style or a version closely aligned to it, but it is best to check. Make sure you reference as you go.

There are applications that can help you s u c h a s R e f wo r k s, which simplify the process of creating a bibliography. © Dawn Fraser

Submission Ok; you have your final draft, so hand it in. There’s nothing more you can do at this stage until you receive the tutor feedback, which will be covered in the next issue. ■ If you are a student with a topic you’d like us to cover or have a question you’d like us to answer please email us at theotmagazine@gmail.com.

About the Author Dawn Fraser MA, FHEA, PGCE LTHE, BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy 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.

www.

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27/02/2015 13:57

Rimini Classic

Safe, fully enclosed bed system for DAILY and TRAVEL use – suitable for children and adults.

Flexi Porter

A fresh approach to healthcare seating

™

Madison

Melrose

C-air

Safety for your loved one, Security for you, Sweet dreams for everyone.

PREVENTS:

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS:

• Night-time wandering • Entrapment during seizures • Injury from falling out of bed

• Low sensory environment – safe den during the day • Suitable for respite centres and hospital use

FEATURES: • Durable, breathable fire retardant material All Repose chairs have been designed to the highest standard. Offering bespoke seating for both health care environments and home, Repose chairs are designed specifically to the users measurements and personal requirements.

Dr Hilary Jones Our In-house Health Advisor

C O M F O RT W ITHO U T CO M PR O M I SE

• Extra Safety Zipper System

• Bespoke chairs designed to the users measurements and needs

• Multiple access points available for feeding/ oxygen tubing, etc.

• Extensive range of health and home chairs catering for different comfort requirements

• Extra end of bed entry available for medical access

• Interchangeable back and seat cushion options for different pressure care and posture management solutions

• Extended side entry available for hoist access • Frame padding to prevent self-harming

• 24 hour delivery on some standard rise recliners

• Low psychological impact for parents

• A wide range of home and health fabrics.

• Classed as medical equipment for travelling

Contact: Heather Ling

• 30 day Money Back Guarantee

UK Sales Agent

For more information please give us a call:

Tel: 0844 7766001 www.reposefurniture.co.uk

Website: www.thesafetysleeper.co.uk Email: heather@thesafetysleeper.co.uk

Nile Electric Leg Lifter Virtually silent the Nile is an electrically powered Leg Lifter with a vinyl pad to lift and support transfer of the legs into bed. Height adjustable and virtually silent ● NILE 3 will fit on any standard divan bed ● NILE 4 is designed to fit a pine, domestic electric divans or community hospital style bed. ● Bariatric Version available

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS TRAINING TO HEALTH/SOCIAL CARE STAFF TO ENHANCE SERVICE DELIVERY 09/03/15

London (NCVO)

(Workshop 3) - Sales and Marketing

11/03/15

London (NCVO)

Introduction to Housing Design for Community OTs

18/05/15

London (NCVO)

Sales, Marketing and Social Media for OTs

08/06/15

London (NCVO)

Professional Report Writing

Mawson Mobile Leg Lifter The Mawson is easily wheeled from bed to bed for multi use. If using with a hospital bed it will wheel under the bed frame allowing the legs to be flush with the side of the bed for effortless transfer. Removes the need for a fixed bed lever giving you free and easy access. ● For multiple bed use, where moving and handling is an issue. ● Ideal for special units, nursing homes, community or hospital. ● Bariatric Version available For a demonstration call our Sales Team.

See us at Naidex 2015, NEC

Phone: 0131 450 7124

How to be an independent OT

To book any of these training courses please visit www.accessindependent.co.uk or call James Derbyshire on 01223 229091.

Stand B01 & B12, New Product Launch!

www.centrobed.com T: 01233 635353

ad_pages_mar_apr_15.indd 19

ot@accessindependent.co.uk www.accessindependent.co.uk

26/02/2015 16:49

Events calendar Kidz in the Middle Date: 19 March 2015 Venue: Jaguar Exhibition Hall, Ricoh

Arena, Coventry, CV6 6GE Time: 9.30am – 4.30pm Cost: Free Part of the family of ‘Kidz’ events run

by Disabled Living, this event offers families with disabled children and professionals who work with disabled children, living in and around Coventry, the opportunity to access products and services that are relevant to them.

There will be over 120 exhibitors offering advice and information on funding, mobility, seating, beds, communication, access, education, toys, transport, sensory, sports and leisure and a wide range of free seminars for parents and professionals.

2015 theatres, 32 exhibition stands and a keynote address from Mr Ray Edwards MBE, Limbcare. Sponsored

by Contour and supported by Redring Xpelair, this inaugural event promises to provide the tools in your armoury you require when looking at and writing recommendations to adapt a person’s home and enable you to embrace adaptations head on despite your working day to day environment.

For more information or to request a booking form please email info@promoting-independence.co.uk or visit www.otac.org.uk

For more information contact Disabled Living on 0161 607 8200, email

Naidex 2015

info@disabledliving.co.uk or visit

Date: 28 – 30 April 2015 Venue: NEC, Birmingham, B40 1NT Time: 28 April 10am – 5pm 29 April 10am – 5pm 30 April 10am – 4pm Cost: Free The UK’s largest disability, rehabilitation and homecare event. A wealth of exhibitors will be displaying the latest products and services to aid the independent living market.

www.kidzinthemiddle.co.uk

Occupational Therapy Adaptations Conference (OTAC) Date: Monday 13th April 2015 Venue: Hilton Reading, Drake Way,

Reading, RG2 0GQ. Cost: Free The world of occupational therapy is changing, whether you’re a senior, basic grade, assistant therapist or private therapist in an ever fluctuating environment, the challenges are growing and training is vital to remain at the top of your practice. OTAC is a time to reflect, network, speak to organisations and companies whom you may have briefly spoken to, but aren’t aware of what they can do to support you within your professional practice. A full days conference over two

The COT (College of Occupational Therapists) in partnership with Naidex will be delivering cutting edge seminars presented in the COT Zone.

During the three days, the COT Zone will feature sessions run by experts from the College, as well as the leading lights from the specialist sections, plus a number of external speakers who are leaders in their field.

Moving & Handling People At Naidex Date: 28 – 29 April Venue: Naidex, NEC, Birmingham,

B40 1NT Cost: £275 +VAT (Entry to Naidex is FREE) Moving & Handling People have announced that the Conference will be additionally taking place in coordination with Naidex on Wednesday 29th & Thursday 30th April 2015 at the NEC. ‘Safeguarding standards, sharing the vision,’ will offer delegates two full days of CPD-accredited training based on a mixture of practical workshops and plenary conference sessions.

All delegates attend four workshops and two keynote plenary sessions along with the Open Forum held at the close of day one in which delegates are encouraged to bring along their current issues to be handled live by the expert panel.

For more information call 020 7289 6111, email mhp@dlf.org.uk or visit www.movingandhandlingpeople. co.uk/mhp-naidex

Kidz South Date: 4 June 2015 Venue: Rivermead Leisure Complex,

Richfield Avenue, Reading,

RG1 8EQ Time: 9.30am – 4.30pm Cost: Free Dedicated to children and young adults with disabilities and additional needs.

This free event brings together a host of companies who provide products and services designed to help children, families, carers and the professionals who work with them.

For more information contact Disabled Living on 0161 607 8200, email

For more information visit

info@disabledliving.co.uk or visit

www.naidex.co.uk

www.kidzsouth.co.uk ■

www.

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11/03/2015 15:12

COLUMNIST

Imelda graham

Imelda Graham is an independent OT who runs her own company, EchoBlueOT Ltd. Here Imelda shares her thoughts on the public understanding of the OT profession.

H

ow many of us keep a rehearsed description of what we do as occupational therapists ready to pull out during conversations? I take it out once in a while when I see the other person pulling that confused and intrigued face asking “Are you like a physiotherapist?”

I don’t mind people asking what I do for a living as it is part of our way of getting to know each other as human beings, but why do we have to explain what we do all the time? My AHP friends do not seem to have this difficulty; physiotherapy is a common word that is linked to exercise and mobility; a speech and language therapist enables one to speak and a dietician ensures that you are eating and drinking healthily, but occupational therapy seems to remain a mystery to many.

It is a great pleasure that the internet is now able to provide our public with information on occupational therapy and scrolling through the internet you can find many great descriptions of who OTs are and what they do. I love to learn by watching someone else teach and I recently discovered two great videos on youtube: “Because of Occupational Therapy” gives a great explanation of occupational therapy and uses simple language: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ud5Fp279g4Y

“

“

No sorry, I have never heard of an Occupational Therapist

Both are brilliant examples of creative ways to advertise our profession.

Recognition For many years now I have felt that in Britain our profession has not had the recognition it deserves. It has not blossomed out of the NHS and Community Services; but I feel it was born to embrace the wider population with its beauty. I mean, have you seen an advert about occupational therapy treatment on television or radio? Have you watched a documentary of how OTs work with clients? How do we expect our public to understand who we are if we do not give them access to the information?

Being an independent occupational therapist, I have discovered that there is a need to set time for advertising and marketing oneself. I love talking about occupational therapy and I love ensuring that everyone knows about it. I advertise my services as a brand and on a daily basis network using websites such as LinkedIn because in my opinion everyone will need an OT at least once in their life, even if they don’t know it yet. I thoroughly enjoy exploring the internet for fun and easy to watch videos explaining the definition of occupational therapy. It is only by advertising that we can promote our profession, especially when our work is constantly scrutinised by those who are unaware of the difference between the work of an OT and a physiotherapist. ■ If you have any creative ideas to help raise awareness of our profession I would love to hear from you, please

“OT Problems” is a rap song by two students from the Dominican University of California in 2013: www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1cHKY7Fqdw 58 www.

email me on echoblueot@gmail.com with your opinions and ideas. For more information on EchoBlueOT Ltd visit www.otprivateservices.co.uk

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27/02/2015 14:04

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fatframe is an excellent product, I strongly recommend it! We’re using fatframe in the classroom and it’s very robust. iPads have been dropped on the floor and are completely undamaged! It’s very well designed, allowing for easy access to all ports and the stand allows pupils to view material on the iPad effortlessly.

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26/02/2015 16:53

medico-Legal

Emerging Roles

Expert Witness Work

By Simon Dickinson, Recruitment Manager and Hannah Snowsill, Rehabilitation Cost Consultant, Jacqueline Webb and Co.

E

xpert witness opportunities are becoming a more feasible option to supplement independent practice, case management or NHS/social care employment. The trend to locum work and the promotion of flexible working allows many clinicians to explore other areas of professional advancement. The notion of expert witness services is not something new. However the process of becoming an expert witness still carries some mystery. Numerous common misconceptions act as barriers to many OTs exploring the field further.

An expert witness is a high calibre individual who has specialist knowledge in a particular subject. Their expertise are sufficient that others may officially and legally rely upon their opinion, regarding evidence or fact, as an aid to the court. OT experts are requested in clinical negligence or personal injury cases and will be asked for an expert opinion to assist the court with ascertaining and quantifying any financial compensation (known as quantum).

The mystery?

Common questions and misconceptions that hold back many OTs from enquiring about expert witness work are: • ‘I don’t understand what an expert witness does’ • ‘That work is too difficult to get into’ • ‘You have to be in independent practice before you start expert work’ • ‘I need to know how much money is coming in each month’ • ‘I don’t think I’d have enough time to do all the work’ • ‘Fear of standing up in court’ • ‘Writing those huge reports!’

• ‘The bar is so high, I could never be an expert’ The above list is by no means exhaustive, but all depict common reasons why clinicians refrain from enquiring. The field is an opportunity to utilise your experience in a way no other avenue can offer; and we encourage you to find out more before › www.

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26/02/2015 22:29

medico-Legal › ruling yourself out. Any selection process should be collaborative and pragmatic and will not only qualify your expertise and educate you about the role, but if you are not successful further focused Continuous Professional Development will often be advised. There are core requirements relating to clinical experience and work capacity, and if you feel you meet these criteria then you should enquire for more information. Jacqueline Webb & Co has developed some online tools to boost your understanding of expert work prior to applying. We have two highly experienced experts discussing the work in detail in video interviews on our website, www.jwebb.co.uk/video-library

An expert’s view Hannah Snowsill is an OT with specialisms in physical disability; amputees; complex orthopaedic and neurological conditions, including stroke. Her most recent role was a Band 6 OT on a 20 bed adult stroke rehabilitation unit. She joined Jacqueline Webb in 2011, and has subsequently moved into independent practice. We asked her about the move to expert witness work and the reasons why it has been such a positive step.

What led you to apply for expert witness work?

I thought it would be a chance to apply myself to something different, a way of stretching myself without further official study; earning additional money; and hopefully carving a different professional future in turn creating a healthy work-life balance for me and my family. It is also a fantastic way to assimilate your knowledge and be able to use it regularly.

Were there any barriers to you applying?

When I applied for the post I don’t think I really fully understood what the role involved. I think for some people the fear of the unknown is too daunting, but for me it just added to my determination to succeed.

What are the perks of expert witness work?

It really is an amazing privilege and opportunity to provide recommendations which, if acted on, will enable and influence someone to achieve independence and satisfaction in their self-care, productivity and leisure despite the accident or incident they sustained.

There are cases when you write the report and hear nothing further until the office informs you the case has settled. There are also cases where you end up revisiting and reassessing, updating reports, attending case conferences and meeting with case managers and other professionals involved.

The flexibility of the work is great, I often complete my assessments at the weekend as carers and families are around to help the claimant with the assessment process. I often work in the evenings, at weekends and I have allocated days in the 62

www.

week. You can really set the pace of your work.

How did the training with Jacqueline Webb help?

Once I had been informed I had been successful in my application I had an introductory day at the Head Office and met my mentor (or QA). I was given lots of information and met the people who would be available to help me. My QA was extremely approachable and was happy for me to ask all sorts of questions. You have a number of in-house study days.

The learning never really stops and Jacqueline Webb & Co really support our Continuous Professional Development.

What ongoing support do you have?

We joke that a QA isn’t just for training but for life! The QAs and my colleagues are so supportive. You can email a question into the office and they will send it onto some of the experts, you can guarantee you will get a flood of emails back with information that you have requested and often additional information you hadn’t even thought of!

What are the benefits of working in a large team of experts?

I would love to know how many clinical years of experience the Expert Team has – I am sure it would speak volumes! We have a range of backgrounds and all my colleagues are so approachable.

Moving to this type of work has been such a positive step for me, I really enjoy the challenge of the work, every report taxes me but the sense of pride when a report is finished or if a case settles is fantastic. At Jacqueline Webb & Co you are aided by the excellent support team at our Salisbury Head Office; all allocations, workflow, report checking and finance are handled in-house and we are now paid within 40 days!

Like to learn more?

If Hannah has inspired you to enquire, please register your details via our website. We have a fantastic online resource including a monthly Webb News blog to help you make sense of the role and how it could fit into your professional career.

Expert witness work can be rewarding both financially and professionally, so if you would like to learn more please get in touch. With the demand for high calibre experts we are looking to employ more experts with specialisms in head, spinal and orthopaedic injury. 90% of our Expert Team consists of OTs and we are accepting enquiries from candidates with at least 6 years postgraduate experience, a minimum of one working day per week to commit and experience of implementing and assessing packages of care and equipment (case management experience is advantageous but not essential). ■ Jacqueline Webb and Co. 01722 329156, recruitment@jwebb.co.uk, dickinsons@jwebb.co.uk, www.jwebb.co.uk/recruitment

-magazine.co.uk

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26/02/2015 22:30

Harrison Associates is an internationally accredited and

award winning business providing case management and expert witness services for clients with catastrophic injuries. Our business continues to grow, so we are expanding our team accordingly.

Case Managers & Expert Witnesses We are looking for experienced, confident, client focused clinical professionals with the skills and eagerness to embrace these challenging but highly rewarding roles. ➢ Do you need a fresh opportunity? ➢ Would you like to manage a small case-load with a wide brief? ➢ Would you like to use every skill you’ve got – and learn even more?

Contact us today to join our team of expert housing OTs

Expert Witnesses provide independent, objective expert assessment, advice and information to the Court in personal injury and medical negligence litigation cases. As a Case Manager, you will work alongside clients, families and legal professionals to achieve excellent outcomes.

Qualified for at least 6 years (8 years for EW), you will have a high level of verbal, written and personal presentation skills. It is likely that you will have substantial experience of the complexities of paediatric, neurological or brain injury cases.

We offer full training and mentoring for these roles which are at the cutting edge of this extended scope of practice. Maintenance of CPD is expected and supported. Competitive remuneration and flexible working arrangements.

To find out more about a new career please visit www.harrisonassociates.org. Alternatively email us at recruit@harrisonassociates.org.

Untitled-1 1

06/11/2014 10:32

SENSIBLESTAFFING Recruiting Occupational Therapists

~ At Sensible Staffing we have a wide range of flexible working options for Occupational Therapists.

As an NHS Framework agency we have nationwide assignments.

We offer free DBS checks, mandatory training and on-going support for CPD. If you are look for an agency that can provide you with a personal service, register with Sensible Staffing.

Tel: 0208 364 9911 Email: aiden@sensible-staffing.com or vis it:

www.sensible-staffing.com

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26/02/2015 16:54

Do you struggle to get the right equipment for your clients?

Remap is a charity that designs and makes bespoke equipment for people with disabilities for free. We work with OTs to come up with creative solutions to practical problems helping disabled people to become more independent. We have 80 groups across England, Northern Ireland and Wales and have been tailor-making equipment for 50 years. Last year we helped 3500 people, many of whom were referred by their OT. It’s simple to refer and if a client can’t get the equipment they need commercially then Remap might be able to make it for them, or adapt existing equipment. As a charity we don’t charge our clients for the work we do.

We carry out all kinds of jobs from simple tasks to the more complex such as the solution we provided for Rebecca, who enjoys reading. She is paralysed from the neck down but can move her face muscles, so a device was made to enable her to control an e-reader by smiling! By slightly raising her cheek she can activate a lever and the machine does the rest.

To find out if Remap can help your clients just visit www.remap.org.uk or contact us on 0845 1300 456

www.rhinouk.com 01270 766660

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Providing sensory solutions and therapeutic resources

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Óä£x Ü Ãii Ì i Li iwÌà v a stronger partnership with The College of Occupational Therapists - Our successful and integral collaboration will grow from last year: Bigger COT zone theatre, more seminars with industry leading speakers will focus on the critical issues for OT.

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ad_pages_mar_apr_15.indd 23

Media Partner: BROUGHT TO YOU BY

15/12/2014 17:46

27/02/2015 08:51

Feedback

Your voice counts

T

hank you for taking the time to read The OT Magazine, we hope you have enjoyed it. We are striving to produce a magazine that provides OTs with a useful resource filled with relevant information, interesting articles, innovative products and thoughts and opinions from OTs themselves. We would love to hear your thoughts on The OT Magazine to ensure we are producing a publication that you want to read.

Your help is much appreciated.

Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms/Dr: First Name: Surname:

Mar/Apr 2015

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What would you like to see in The OT Magazine?

• Products • Case studies of products and methods in practice • Columns from OTs • Interviews with OTs from different fields • Research articles • Services available for patients • Information on respite and accessible holidays • Information on events and exhibitions • Information for students • Recruitment section • Other (Please specify)

Are you an independent OT? Yes No What area of occupational therapy do you work in?

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Please post back your completed form to:

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27/02/2015 11:53

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e hope you have enjoyed The OT Magazine and have found it informative and enjoyable to read. If you would like to register to receive a FREE copy of the magazine every issue, simply fill in your details and post back this form to the address provided, email ros@2apublishing.co.uk or call 0141 270 8085 and our team will be happy to help you.

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The OT Magazine is out every two months and every issue will include a wide range of products, news stories, personal stories and informative articles.

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-magazine.co.uk

27/02/2015 11:55

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