Occupational therapists and support workers help people engage as independently as possible in the activities (occupations) which enhance their health and wellbeing
Explore this section of the website to find out more about how occupational therapy might be of benefit to you, your friends and family. There is also advice and information for anyone interested in studying occupational therapy or becoming an OT support worker. Resources are also available for members who want to promote occupational therapy.
This short film explains how occupational therapists help people carry out the activities they need or want to do. People describe how they have benefited from occupational therapy services making a huge difference to their lives.
Marc was in a serious road accident, and he was left physically disabled, with the life that he had prior to the accident changed beyond recognition. Danielle, his occupational therapist, discovered that Marc was a passionate angler before his accident. Danielle said, “Before the accident, Marc would spend all his time talking about fishing, going fishing, and sitting by the lake fishing for hours. When Marc was admitted to the hospital where I work, he wasn’t able to talk; he could only communicate Yes or No by blinking his eyes. My concern for Marc was to find out what was important to him, and what could he do when he left hospital. He’s in a different phase of his life now, as so much has happened. What’s important is that Marc can continue to do something that he loves and enjoys, and most importantly, he can do it by himself”. As a result of Danielle’s intervention, Marc started fishing again and now goes on regular fishing trips, enabling him to continue with the hobby he loves.
Matt was able to return to work, thanks to Davina, his occupational therapist: 'I was going to end it all and decided to hang myself, but I couldn’t do it. My father called the police and came to get me, and got me the help I needed. I was referred to a mental health unit where I met Davina, the occupational therapist. Davina helped me in lots of different ways, some very small, but all these ‘smalls’ ended up into one big ‘large’. With all the effort that Davina put in, she helped to get my mind in some sort of state and order where I could function again, and she has helped me immensely. I wouldn’t be acting in this one-man play now if I hadn’t got that help from Davina, so I owe a huge debt to her, as my occupational therapist.'
Stephen is disabled and wheelchair dependent, but thanks to Paul, his occupational therapist, he can now drive a specially adapted vehicle. As a result of gaining his new-found independence, Stephen no longer relies on his parents to take him everywhere, and the quality of his life has greatly improved. As Stephen says, “Being able to drive means I can go riding and I can go to college. Being independent means everything to me. I can do whatever I want and it’s made a huge difference to my life. I wouldn’t be where I am now – and there would be no hope for other disabled people - if it wasn’t for Paul and other occupational therapists like him”.
Helpful information explaining how you can find an occupational therapist
Download the Careers Handbook 2011-12>>
Download Advice on how to overcome work-related stress>>
Download Continue to have an active life as you get older>>
Download Do you want to get the most from life?>>
Download Helping children to develop and thrive>>
Download How equipment can make your life easier>>
Download Make a difference Become an OT>>
Education Manager (Student Services)Fiona.Fraser@cot.co.uk