Helping people to live life their way

Occupational therapists at South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust are joining in national occupational therapy week, which started on Monday 3 November.

The Trust, which provides community, mental health and learning disability services in Barnsley, Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield is holding a series of events this week for staff, service users, their families and carers to raise awareness of occupational therapy and the important role it plays.

Occupational therapists (OTs) are skilled health and social care professionals who recognise that the activities of daily living can become more difficult to do during or after an illness.

During these times OTs help people find ways to overcome or manage difficulties that are preventing them from leading an independent life. Support is offered at home, in the community or within an inpatient setting.

At the Trust occupational therapists work in a range of physical, mental health and learning disability services, supporting a variety of ages.

Paul McLaughlin, professional lead for occupational therapy in Barnsley at the Trust said, “This is a great opportunity for us to raise awareness of the benefits occupational therapy has in aiding people’s recovery from ill health.

“We can help people get back to a position where they can confidently carry out their everyday activities, whether that is the ability to cook for themselves, getting back to work or simply being able to socialise with friends. Occupational therapy can help do that and play a key role in the rehabilitation of an individual.

“The events we’ve organised for this week will give service users as well as their families the opportunity to find out more about activities such as gardening, music sessions and baking – which are all activities that an OT might work with them to do.”