The OT Magazine - November / December 2018

e t a m i t l u The e t a m i t n i in cleanliness

“The Closomat is the most wonderful thing of all the living aids we have added to our home, it’s beautiful!

I now don’t have to get my wife to help me.”

Karl van Gool, Halesowen

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

About us

The Team

Editor: Rosalind Tulloch Staff Writers: Colette Carr and Katie Campbell Designer: Stephen Flanagan Production: Donna Deakin Marketing: Sophie Scott Sales: Robin Wilson & Jacqui Smyth Contributors: Kate Sheehan, John Callas, Adam Ferry, Heather Davidson, Andy Hughes, Esther Dark, Firas Sarhan

Get in touch

2A Publishing Ltd, Caledonia House, Evanton Dr, Thornliebank Industrial Estate, Glasgow, G46 8JT 0141 465 2960 ot-magazine.co.uk The OT Magazine @ot_magazine

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 2018 © 2A Publishing Limited. All Rights Reserved. ISSN-2056-7146

This month’s issue...

W

e are celebrating our 25th issue of The OT Magazine! It has been four years since the inception of the magazine and what a journey it has been. I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has been involved in its creation, from our trusted columnists and expert OTs who give up their time to talk to us about their role to our wonderful readers without whom we would not exist.

Just as the role of occupational therapy is constantly evolving so too is The OT Magazine and as a team we are passionate about discovering emerging roles of OT, new methods of practice and opening up discussions around controversial topics and we will continue to seek out relevant and engaging content to help occupational therapists on their lifelong journey of learning.

Our cover this issue has focused on a new learning pathway that has been developed to help OTs who work with people living with Parkinson’s. From presentations and information guides to tips and videos this resource is a welcome pathway for all AHPs working with people living with Parkinson’s disease.

Heather Davidson discusses feminism and explores what it means to her and how this impacts on her role as an OT. Heather led a seminar at the RCOT Conference earlier this year which invited a lively discussion amongst OTs, find out more on page 13.

We will be at The OT Show on stand D22 this year so please come and visit to us, let us know your thoughts on the magazine and talk about getting involved, we will also have sweets.

Here’s to the next 25 issues!

The OT Magazine, Editor

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

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

What’s inside 7 What’s New? Bringing you up to speed with all the latest news from the healthcare sector

26

13 The F Word Is occupational therapy really the feminist profession?

16 16 Look After Yourself Kate Sheehan discusses self care this issue

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

25 Day in the Life Andy Hughes gives us an insight into a day in his work post as a senior OT at the Essex University Partnership Trust

26 Restoring a Patient

to a Person

We speak to OT Jenny Streather about the sensitive care required to rediscover life in palliative care

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31 25 Issues of

The OT Magazine To mark a quarter century of issues, we look at 25 things that have made the magazine what it is

35 Product Focus More latest must-have products on the market

40 Hydration Salvation The nifty new intervention in dementia care and hydration

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70

What’s Inside 67 Trusted Breaks Trusted Breaks and Charley Bubbles are a new respite centre and charity started by Jacqui Lowe in memory of her daughter Charley

70 Robbie Robot How robots are getting children with disabilities and chronic illnesses back into classrooms

42 Inclusive

Classrooms We learn about OT’s role in Pakistani classrooms

46 The Nature of

Machines

With artificial intelligence continuing to grow, we delve into the realm of bionic limbs

49 Parkinson’s

Pathway

Product

Focus

A new learning pathway has been developed for those in Parkinson’s care

53 Ethical Implications

of Assistive Technology

CETEC note what to be aware of when applying assistive technology

57 Make Up Makeup Ensuring your client keeps feeling like themselves

35

61 Seating Support

and Osteoarthritis Kate Sheehan explores the process of choosing the correct seating

73 Paediatric

Products

Innovative products for your younger clients

77 Adapting for Change Exploring how financial strains are affecting the housing sector

80 The OT Show Gear up for this month’s OT Show

85 A Blank Canvas Four forms of art therapy for your client to express themselves with

89 Is a Walker Just

for Walking?

Adam Ferry of The OT Service takes a look at the multiple uses of the walkers on the market

90 Student Profile Student Esther Dark discusses having a placement across two practices

93 Events Calendar Essential dates for your diary

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Lifting module – discreet and elegant

The GHZ is a discreet - almost invisible - lifting module that ensures safe and comfortable lifts and an ergonomically safe working environment for care staff. The lifting module runs along the traverse rail, minimising the embedding dimensions and allowing extra lifting height, which can be a major benefit in rooms with low ceilings.

 Almost invisible  Lifting capacity up to 255 kg  Minimal built-in height – high lifting range Guldmann UK Tel. +44 (0) 1793 608806 www.guldmann.co.uk

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

What’s new?

Disabled people have their say Optalis allow users to vote on their care Optalis’ Have Your Say conference put the focus firmly on the service user, operating under the premise of “run by people with learning disabilities for people with learning disabilities”, in a day that saw some people vote for the very first time.

The conference aimed to underline the importance of people with learning disabilities retaining control and choice over their own lives and care to “ensure customers are involved in enhancing, developing and creating services that deliver the best possible experience”, inviting customers to vote on matters to help the company reach this aim by 2020.

OT Numbers

The event allowed service users to discuss their current care and influence it and celebrated the 100th anniversary of some

women winning the right to vote, with Optalis campaigning with other UK organisations to ensure people with disabilities can exercise their right to an informed vote.

I was particularly impressed by the presentation on our democratic right to vote, something that I am very passionate about.”

Councillor Richard Dolinksi, Wokingham Borough Council Executive Member for Adult Social Care, Health & Wellbeing

2020 The year that Optalis aims to achieve their goals by

Councillor Richard Dolinksi, Wokingham Borough Council Executive Member for Adult Social Care, Health and Wellbeing, said: “It was a privilege to have attended the Optalis Customer Conference, especially to have witnessed the energy and enthusiasm of all the participants.

“I was particularly impressed by the presentation on our democratic right to vote, something that I am very passionate about. I believe that everyone’s voice needs to be heard.

Thank you Optalis for facilitating this.”

100

The anniversary of some women getting the vote with which the conference coincides

Future diagnosis New AI technology can speed up Parkinson’s diagnosis A Chinese technology corporation is working in collaboration with London-based Medopad to further the use of artificial intelligence in the diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease.

Tencent have developed a camera that follows and tracks movements in the hands to determine how severe symptoms of the disease are in those displaying them. Working with London’s King’s College Hospital, the group have developed the system using videos of diagnosed patients.

It is hoped the smartphone technology provided by Medopad will help allow diagnosis without attaching equipment to patients, remove the need to visit the hospital and cut the process from half an hour down to three minutes.

More articles on next page

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7

What’s

new?

RGU first for degree RGU offers UK’s first of its kind OT degrees “We have made it a key priority Aberdeen’s Robert Gordon to understand the needs of our University has introduced a new colleagues working in the health four-year undergraduate integrated and social care masters degree in sector, as well as the occupational therapy – challenges facing the first of its kind in By launching society, and to shape the UK. these new integrated our programmes The School of masters degrees, we accordingly.

Health Sciences are not only meeting also developed the same qualification in Dietetics, Physiotherapy and Diagnostic Radiography.

and exceeding the current demands, but ensuring that our students get the best possible experience.”

Head of the School of Health Sciences Liz Hancock, said:

Head of the School of Health Sciences Liz Hancock

“By launching these new integrated masters degrees, we are not only meeting and exceeding the current demands, but ensuring that our students get the best possible experience.”

Cosyfeet win for Anastasia Dedicated Dementia Specialist, Anstasia Barns, Wins Cosyfeet OT Award Anastasia Barnes, a senior OT at the Emerald Centre in Colchester, has won this year’s Cosyfeet OT Award.

The £1000 award will help fund the creation of a sensory garden where dementia clients and their families can spend time gardening and relaxing together.

The garden will provide a space where individuals with dementia can interact with the environment, utilise their skills and knowledge, regain selfesteem and

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be physically and mentally active.

In this way sleep, appetite, fitness and mood can be improved for a better quality of life. It will also provide a place where positive memories can be created for the families of people living with dementia, and where community groups can gain a better understanding of dementia while assisting with garden development projects.

“The therapeutic

benefits of horticulture and art are well documented,” says Anastasia.

“Our garden will incorporate plants to stimulate the senses and sculptures made by patients from everyday objects.”

The Cosyfeet OT Award assists OTs and OT students to develop their professional knowledge and skills while benefitting others. The award is open to those who are planning voluntary work, a work placement, a client-focused project or research, whether in the UK or abroad.

For more information about the Cosyfeet OT Award visit cosyfeet. com/professionals/otaward

What’s

new?

OTs Celebrate World OT Day

Going for

GOALS OTs set up football school for disabled children Advanced occupational therapy student from the University of Northampton, Marco Pastori has teamed up with fellow Italian OT, Marco Lodi Pasini to launch a football school to help disabled children in his native Italy.

Ready2Play is based in the A.S.C.D. Torino Club Scuola Calcio Marco Parolo in Gallarate north west of Milan and will run as a pilot project until May next year.

Ready2Play will meet once a week and is divided into two sessions.

The first half hour is devoted to ‘locker room’ tasks designed to help the children manage day-to-day activities that are also associated with football - lacing up their boots, managing the football bag. The last hour consists of warm-up exercises and a football match itself.

From January to May next year,

the programme will then be mixed up so that the children who have learning disabilities will play alongside their non-disabled peers.

The aim is that the social and developmental skills of both sets of children will be enhanced.

Marco said: “Although the idea for Ready2Play followed my colleague Marco Lodi-Pasini’s existing work with children in Gallarate, it’s very much an example of the type of ‘real-time’ project we are encouraged to develop during the Advance OT course with University of Northampton.

“If I hadn’t taken the course, Ready2Play may not have got off the ground. Now the school is open, I’m looking forward to seeing how it will further help the development of children of Gallaratte.”

Celebrated on Saturday 27 October, occupational therapists across the globe marked their profession in a day of recognition.

Set by the World Federation of Occupational Therapy, the theme was celebrating our global community, encouraging OTs from the federation’s 101 national occupational therapy professional organisations and all over the world to show their support for the awareness raising initiative.

The annual day, which has been celebrated since 2010, used the power of social media to bring to life its global community theme, inviting OTs together to promote the profession and start an ongoing discussion. wfot.org

More articles on next page

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9

What’s

new?

NHS Wales wins award A cross therapy programme which aims to employ all practices’ skills to help older people get home safely from A&E was awarded a prestigious NHS Wales award.

DANCE PROJECT

receives praise North Cumbrian dance project receives praise ordinator at the Trust’s Healing Arts To mark World Stroke Day on 29 programme Susie Tate, who told the October, North Cumbria University Hospitals NHS Trust have developed Cumbria Crack: “There is a growing evidence base demonstrating the a dance project to support those physical and social living after a stroke. benefits of dance in The scheme, stroke recovery and which aims to build There is a for stroke survivors. confidence and growing evidence The creative aspect of restore co-ordination, base demonstrating dance offers people a comprises of dance the physical and way into movement and movement social benefits of where there are no classes designed with dance in stroke rights or wrongs and the physical support in recovery and for can help people remind and the aim to stroke survivors connect with their reduce social isolation.

NHS Trust Arts co-ordinator, Susie Tate body in a non-medical Developing the way.” scheme was arts co-

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Cwn Taf University Health Board’s Stay Well @Home which brings together occupational therapists, a physiotherapist, social workers and therapy technicians won the Working Seamlessly Across Organisations award at the glittering event in Cardiff.

The project began in April 2017 with the target of improving the flow of patients in A&E. With a lack of home support for those aged over 65, discharge was not possible before this initiative which reduced the number of required community beds or wait for acute hospital stays.

Looking for an OT job?

ot-magazine.co.uk/jobs

We’re back with the world’s most innovative stairlift.

Experience the Flow2 at Stand G31 The Occupational Therapy Show Access BDD Unit E3 Eagle Court, De Havilland Avenue Preston Farm Business Park Stockton-on-Tees TS18 3TB, United Kingdom wwww.accessbdd.com

FEMINISM FEMINISM FEMINISM FEMINISM FEMINISM G N I S U FEMINISM ’ F ‘ E H T FEMINISM D R O W FEMINISM FEMINISM Heather Davidson is the senior occupational therapy lecturer at the University of Salford.

She has a particular interest in feminism and recently led a seminar at the RCOT Conference 2018 exploring the way in which feminism impacts the role of occupational therapy and OTs as individuals. Here, she shares the effect that feminism has had on her both personally and professionally. 

FEMINISM FEMINISM FEMINISM HEATHER FEMINISM DAVIDSON FEMINISM FEMINISM

S

o how does feminism impact on me and my work? Supporting women and challenging their oppression is part of my DNA. Subtle adjustments such as flexibility in appointments, an open door approach, celebration of life events and being consistent in response no matter what the circumstances has been important.

Reflecting on the way in which feminism impacts on me as an occupational therapy educator and previously as an occupational therapy clinician I can identify conscious choices to align my feminist stance with my professional position. I uphold the belief that women and men have differences but that their I CAN SEE THAT I individual characteristics HAVE FACILITATED A should not be valued SUCCESSION OF SAFE SPACES FOR WOMEN differently. I have recognised TO BE FREE FROM in all the places where I JUDGEMENT, TO DEVELOP have worked that women THEIR CONFIDENCE AND are judged negatively for SKILLS FROM A POSITION their ‘femaleness’ and I OF STRENGTH AND demonstrate my feminism ACCEPTANCE. in celebrating women’s achievements and nurturing women’s self confidence as it develops.

I can see that I have facilitated a succession of safe spaces for women to be free from judgement, to develop their confidence and skills from a position of strength and acceptance. Early in my clinical career I instigated a women’s group within an inpatient mental health setting to facilitate sharing of experiences in a safe space. I have completed doctoral research using feminist methodology to design leadership development activities, specifically for

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women, to provide a similar safe space.

Feminism impacts on my academic work in numerous other ways. It has always been important to me that women feel supported whilst completing their studies and should feel understood when dealing with experiences such as pregnancy, caring responsibilities and the ongoing demands of balancing childcare and full time studies. There are university policies to ensure academic practice is inclusive but I aim to create an atmosphere on our programme at Salford where women can share their worries and complete their studies successfully. Conveying an understanding of the effort involved for a young mum to arrive at a lecture on time and ready to work knowing her children are safe and happy (or happy enough) can make a difference.

Feminism has also impacted on the words that I use as while studying for a professional doctorate I reflected on the male derivation of key words used in research. Demonstrating feminism in my work includes not using terms such as ‘seminal’ texts preferring the phrase ‘key publications’. I have also reflected on some of the ways a research career can be difficult to navigate for women such as the decision women may face regarding changing or keeping their surname and the impact this may have on their research profile. Not only that, my recent return to my birth name highlighted the absurdity of referring to this as my ‘maiden’ name but importantly the hesitation that some women experience when wanting to change from a married name to their birth name, as the research world appears to have limited capacity to deal with this reality for women.

WHAT IS A FEMINIST? At this year’s RCOT Conference in Belfast I led a seminar titled ‘Feminism and Occupational Therapy...

Question, Debate and Reflect’. This followed a request at the end of a workshop “Occupational Therapy – A Feminist Profession?”at the 2017 Conference where the attendees commented that they would like more time to debate feminism and share their views. The 2018 seminar discussed the relevance of feminism to occupational therapy, whether identifying as feminist influences an occupational therapists’ practice and facilitated time to create an action plan for changing or developing practice going forward.

The session began with an overview of feminism considering the question - what is a feminist? I acknowledged that although a textbook definition of a feminist describes an individual who believes in the social, economic, and political equality of the sexes, feminism as a concept is multi-layered and belies a simple definition.

Delegates were asked to consider whether they would classify themselves as feminist and if this had an impact on their practice. Delegates referred

to an appreciation of women as service users and their experiences of oppression. Reference was made to articles from Hazel Bracegirdle in 1991 (which started my own journey of exploring feminism and occupational therapy) where women’s identity was explored through consideration of the appropriateness of assigning household tasks to women (in a mental health setting), where that might be the very source of their depression.

Feminism was identified by delegates as relevant in relation to employment and experience of maternity rights. I reflected on the progression of feminism and described five waves of feminism, as referred to in current feminist writing. While there is difference of opinion on the phases through which feminism has developed, the waves of feminism were used, in this seminar, to illustrate the importance of moving forward and avoiding judgement of how feminism may be embodied. I referred to Caitlin Moran and her suggestion that women should laugh in the face of awkwardness and temptation to judge each other and suggested this as a positive way forward for occupational therapists.

WTF? The seminar moved on to consider the visibility of the links between occupational therapy and feminism and questioned the lack of identifiable links between occupational therapy, feminism and feminist analysis in published literature. Describing how a rudimentary search of occupational therapy literature highlights a small number of published works with feminism or feminist in the title prompted the slide titled “WTF” – partly to raise a smile but mostly to engage the delegates in the absurdity of a profession of who are predominantly women (98% of practitioners in the UK) producing less than 20 publications with a feminist focus internationally.

The number increases gradually if you widen your search to abstract or subject as you might expect, but this number is still relatively small. Some of those attending the session commented on the difficulty that can be experienced publishing work with feminism in the title in occupational therapy journals, which prompted interesting and heated discussion.

The seminar touched on aspects of theory such as Intersectionality. Intersectionality is a theory introduced by Kimberlé Crenshaw and illustrates that women’s lives are an intersection of many things such as gender, race and social

environment. Intersectionality has a strong alliance with occupational therapy philosophy focusing on the unique attributes and circumstances of each individual, but importantly it moves this consideration further to highlight the intersection of sources of oppression that may impact upon a woman. The delegates considered where they might challenge oppression in their practice.

Some questions that arose from the seminar that could help OTs consider their own relationship with feminism were as follows: • • •

Do you identify as feminist and does this matter to you as an occupational therapist?

How does feminism fit with your everyday practice?

How can feminism impact on your clinical practice in the future?

The final question at the end of the seminar and this article – so what next? A confident and overt expression of feminism may be one strategy, and focusing on numbers and increasing visibility by increasing published work may be another but also pose the question - does the lack of critical literature highlight a profession that is uncomfortable with discussion from a critical theory perspective?

Heather Davidson is inviting OTs who wish to discuss this topic further to get in touch at @TheLoft_connect on Twitter.

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Page

TABS

Kate Sheehan Director, The OT Service

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

For more info email kate@theotservice.co.uk

This issue Kate talks about the importance of self care

Look after Yourself W

e are all aware of the importance of looking after ourselves, eat the correct things, drink lots of water, exercise and make sure you have a work life balance, but do we look after ourselves professionally?

As an ageing therapist, I have begun to reflect more about my career, what I would have done differently and what I can do now to enhance it prior to retirement, so here are my top tips after 31 years of working in the field.

Environment Make sure your physical work environment enables you to be physically fit and healthy.

Does the ward/department allow you to work safely with your patients? Do you have the right chair to sit on when writing up notes, are you able to get up and walk around and stretch if sitting for long

periods. Do you have the right IT to enable you to complete your work in a timely and effective manner?

If it is not, put together a plan on how it can be changed to support everyone in the team/department.

Mental health Make sure your work environment is not damaging psychologically. This is particularly important as bullying, negative management, a blame culture or one individual who targets their wrath against you due to their own inadequacies can have an impact for years and be hugely detrimental to your own mental wellbeing.

If at all possible challenge the behaviour, if not, move on, change jobs. It is not always easy to do but sometimes it is essential, but do mention it in your exit interview as your reason for leaving, try and make sure another therapist will not have the same negative experience.

a colleague, researching and writing an article for The OT Magazine, developing and presenting a seminar at The OT Show, remember learning is not just about sitting in a classroom.

Reflection Make sure you have time to reflect, this need not be in work time, it could be on the drive home, a walk in your local community or during a swim, however it is vital to make you a better therapist, manager or educator. Remember we do not get it right all the time, don’t beat yourself up, own the situation, learn from it and never be too big to apologise.

Network Develop a network of inspirational and like-minded therapists that can assist you in developing your own knowledge and skills, never be reticent to go up and talk to someone, they might be the key to unlock the next stage of your career.

Continued Professional Supervision and Development mentoring You must give yourself time to learn. None of us stopped learning the moment we walked out of college or university. Make a plan at the beginning of the year of what your needs are, research how you can fill the gaps of your knowledge, accept that you might need to invest your own time and money to achieve what you want to achieve.

This has, for me, been the most important thing. Having professional support, for my clinical, professional and business development has been the best investment over the years. It has allowed me to discuss ideas, develop a plan, question my clinical input, provide me with a different point of view and most importantly challenged me to be a better occupational therapist, Look at what is on offer free of charge, as a business owner and manager. considerable number of shows, companies So find yourself a good mentor or and organisations are putting on high quality supervisor and take your career forward in training. If you look more creatively at how a new direction. you can achieve your goals it is amazing P.S. I am not sure I will ever retire, I love my what you can do, consider shadowing profession too much!

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s 21

5 P3 ham d ing an Birm St NEC on 2018 us Nov sit nd Vi t & 22

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Rollz Motion 2 The unique lightweight design of the Rollz Motion 2 enables the user to transform it from a rollator into a wheelchair and back again in one simple movement while the innovative drum brakes ensure safe balanced breaking at all times. Available in a variety of colours and with a maximum user weight of 125kg / 19st 9lb, seat dimensions of 42cm x 45cm x 55cm and maximum user height of 5ft 3” to 6ft 3”, the Rollz Motion 2 is perfect for anyone looking for a wheelchair and rollator in one.

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The Olympos has been designed to enable the user to tackle terrain unsuitable for most rollators due to its larger wheels and option of off-road wheels yet is equally at home in a domestic environment. As with every model in the range, the Olympos can be modified for one-sided brake use and is available in sizes small and medium with a maximum user weight of 150kg and user height of 170cm and 195cm respectively.

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Product

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

1 Gartec

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2 CupCap 01254 832266 | tenura.co.uk Self-sealing lids that apply to virtually all cups, mugs, glasses and cans to provide a seal that helps to restore confidence for the user by drastically reducing the risk of spills and stains.

An eyelet in the centre of the CupCap allows for insertion of a straw.

Available online now.

Add style and substance to any home with this popular home lift. Boasting up to six-floor travel and 410kg capacity, it’s ideal for wheelchair users with carers.

The ultra-compact design looks great tucked away or on show – and glass and colour options match any personal style.

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Product

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0845 630 3436 karmamobility.co.uk/where-to-buy

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The VIP2 is the latest addition to the Karma Mobility portfolio of manual wheelchairs and offers users a superb combination of tilt in space and reclining positions to ensure they can achieve optimum levels of pressure relief, positioning and comfort at all times. See the VIP2 on stand B20 at The OT Show.

4 Camel Lifting Cushion

4

0800 2800 485 | mangarhealth.com Vulnerable fallers are often at risk of developing pressure areas if left on the floor or a hard surface for too long.

The Camel Lifting Cushion, the perfect single-handed care device, gently and safely inflates under the faller, reducing the risk of pressure sores developing.

5 Fall Prevention Alert System

01536 264 869 | medpage-ltd.com This fall prevention and wander detection carer alert system has a bed leaving alarm, door alarms, PIR movement sensor and a wireless carer alarm receiver. Designed and manufactured in the UK by Medpage, this system provides peace of mind to family and carers by alerting them when movement is detected.

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6 Ultimate Stairlift

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The new Ultimate curved stairlift by Platinum takes innovation to the next level, with unique features including first step start, 75° incline, linked seat and footrest, power swivel to 25 stone (160kg), multiple bend radii, adjustable chair with choice of controls. The Ultimate is the stairlift of the future.

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Motion 2 7 Rollz 0115 8465406 | topro.co.uk This rollator incorporates a unique design which enables the user to transform it from a rollator into a wheelchair and back again in one simple movement. Available in four attractive colours it can accommodate most users and will be on stand P35 at The OT Show.

8

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These stylish crutches are designed to take the strain off the user’s hands and wrists by redistributing it across the forearms. The ergonomic design provides maximum support, stability, comfort and durability. With more than 46 adjustments the user can set the crutches to their exact needs.

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TASTE

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Book a free tasting session and discover the joy that our tasty, nutritious meals can bring to patient mealtimes.

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John Callas

Occupational Therapist - M&H specialist Associate of UK Therapy Services John is a moving and handling specialist OT working as an associate of UK Therapy Services. John currently provides commercial consultancy, expert training and clinical assessment within his specialist field.

In this feature, John explores and reviews products he experiences in practice, giving insight and reflection to those who may benefit.

OT Approved

The Huggaslide by Posture Care Ltd

E

arlier this year, I wrote a review about a bed simple Velcro pad to the top sheet. For a person on their positioning system. I wrote it because bed back with complex postural needs you have to reposition manoeuvres remain the biggest query I have in on their side, the top sheet acts as an in situ slide sheet. my professional practice. Finding good value That sheet makes the manoeuvre potentially more solutions for therapists to try therefore is really important comfortable for the person being moved and easier to me as I know first-hand the processes therapists have for the carer. The Velcro pad attachment makes the refitting of the pads easier and as such, to go through to obtain special items of you’ll be able to achieve the desired equipment.

The way the patient position more quickly and I recently had the opportunity to try the reduce carer strain and potential static positioning blocks fit Huggaslide system by Posture Care Ltd posture, as well as the unnecessary, – a conventional sleep system which is one of the features prolonged handling of the patient. This has the compatibility to work with their I really liked when I becomes even more of an issue when standard fitted top sheet or an in situ tried this product and you consider patients with complex slide sheet positioning system akin to the product in my last review. they attach via a simple postural or behavioural needs that require frequent re-positioning.

It is this feature that really drew my

Velcro pad to the top

attention to the product. As a conventional It is also priced very competitively in the sheet. sleep system, the Huggaslide provides market place. This is so very important external support and postural control and because as we know, in practice, is designed to carry out all the functions that other sleep when ordering specialist equipment, the item has to systems carry out including: maintaining body position be effective but be good value, which the Huggaslide and shape, reducing tone within muscles and reducing certainly does appear to be. There are lots of other contractures by the precise positioning of foam blocks sleep systems available on the market but having tried around a person that attach to a top sheet. this item I certainly think it’s worth therapists trying as it The way the positioning blocks fit is one of the features I potentially could be an invaluable piece of equipment in really liked when I tried this product and they attach via a their resources.

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More than a “single” reason for raising the potential for proficient care!

Come and join our clinic at the OT SHOW on November 21st and 22nd to discuss case assessments and solutions. Stand no. G30

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A day in the life

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Each month ..

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m es Hugh erapist fro He Andy th 6. l 1 a 0 n 2 , in atio x p e u s c ourse s c E o BSc c a y of it e s r im e t Univ parton-Se ok the Southend- rking o t r e d o y un l hilst w rted b suppo Council w ccupationa h O g ia u y c it o l Boro mmun hin Adult S s a o C e h for t m wit working a 18. d py Tea 0 Thera d continue are until 2 C n l a ia e Car in Soc ed OT ifi l a u q

the next call.

What is your current role?

I am currently working for Essex University Partnership Trust (EPUT) as a senior occupational therapist on the Early Intervention Vehicle. This is a pilot project working in conjunction with East of England Ambulance Service Trust responding to 999 calls, attending to people who have fallen or are experiencing a decline in function to support them to remain at home and avoid hospital admission.

Describe a typical day…

My day starts at 06:45am when I arrive at Southend Ambulance Station for my 12-hour shift, crewed with a paramedic or senior practitioner. We prepare the vehicle for the day and are soon on our first ‘shout’, typically, someone who has fallen whilst performing their morning routines.

On arrival the paramedic completes their primary survey to ensure the patient is stable and if appropriate to assist from the floor, I lead on safe manual handling to get the patient up, working in collaboration with the paramedic. Whilst the paramedic is obtaining a full set of observations I gather information from the patient,

I love being involved in an innovative pilot project placing occupational therapy within a novel setting,

My day continues in this way and we get continual calls throughout the day for a variety of reasons, including attending category 1 calls (life threatening situations), when we are the nearest response vehicle

What is your favourite part of your role?

carers, family and electronic patient records, and in partnership, with the patient, devise a plan to support them remaining safe and independent at home and avoid hospital admission.

This can include arranging emergency care provision, equipment provision, prioritised referrals to other support services and advice and information. I complete functional assessments and early mobilisation following a fall to increase patient’s confidence.

All record keeping and onwards referrals are completed whilst in the patients home, working remotely from a laptop device. The patient is discharged from the service before we leave and we then inform the control centre that we are ‘green’ ready for

I love being involved in an innovative pilot project placing occupational therapy within a novel setting, working in partnership with other professions. I really enjoy the variety and pace of the job and the opportunity it allows for me to promote occupational therapy in a new setting.

What is the hardest thing about your role?

Working long days can be very demanding and inappropriate calls are frustrating. It can be very challenging to get support from other services, especially out of hours, to enable patients to remain at home. However, the job is exciting, innovative and I love every day.

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25

Palliative Care

Restoring a patient to a person Palliative care can be one of the most sensitive areas that an occupational therapist can work in. A common misconception of this speciality is that intervention only comes in the last few days of someone’s care, but that is certainly not the case. It is a role that can help patients rediscover life, relationships and achieve goals, no matter how small.

J

enny Streather is an function and ability to carry out occupational therapist and the activities they wish to do. We the AHP Lead at St Barnabas have a really great team of OTs Hospice in Lincolnshire, and physiotherapists that can help where they have a small team of five support patients back to the level OTs and four physiotherapists. They they were before, or as close to that cover the county of Lincolnshire as possible. based from Lincoln, Grantham, “We also deliver community services Boston, Louth and two - supporting patients “I think one of the in their own homes inpatient units in Lincoln. most important The hospice teams see within our day therapy things that we do, settings, and the wider approximately 9000 we enable patients community as well. I people every year, delivering free, high who have got a life- think one of the most quality, compassionate limiting or terminal important things that we end of life care and diagnosis to live life do, we enable patients support for patients, their to the full...” who have a life-limiting families and carers. or terminal diagnosis to Jenny spoke to The OT Magazine to share more about her role and that of an OT in the speciality of palliative care in a hospice setting.

“Between the team we cover the inpatient units and the community settings. In Lincoln there is an 11-bedded unit – and it’s important to mention what we deliver there is not just end of life care, it’s palliative rehabilitation and symptom management. When patients have problems with managing symptoms that will obviously impact on their

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live life to the full, we are not just there for patients who are in the last days of life, we will see people in the last years, months as well as those days. I think people have that misconception of hospice that we will only see people in the last days of life - however it’s not about that – palliative could mean years.”

Jenny acknowledges that many associate hospices with a cancer diagnosis, however, she explains that they see patients who are diagnosed with everything from

Palliative Care

Parkinson’s disease, respiratory and cardiac conditions, degenerative neurological conditions to young people who have lived through childhood conditions, and more recently they have been focusing on supporting patients who are experiencing frailty.

Looking more specifically at the role of an OT within the hospice Jenny speaks passionately about it and highlights the vital difference that an OT can make to someone who is living with a terminal diagnosis.

“I think that one of my favourite ways of summarising our role as OTs within any hospice setting, is our delivery of palliative rehabilitation as - the transformation of the dying into the living. We restore a patient to a person, we are not just focusing on the physical limitations of someone’s diagnosis, it’s the psychological, the environmental, the emotional impact of symptoms. We are very open to a lot of interventions, we certainly think outside the box a lot of the time and I think that’s something that’s a real selling point for OTs within the speciality.”

Emotional resilience Naturally a role working with patients who have life-limiting or terminal illnesses, can be challenging and emotional, but Jenny talks about her role as rewarding and insists that the

hospice is far from a sad place to work.

“I think it’s definitely one of the most physically and emotionally challenging job roles I have worked in, but I think it is the most rewarding job an OT can do.

“I think St Barnabas Hospice and palliative care in general is not a sad place to work, it is one of the most supportive specialities an OT can work in. You have got that really close MDT support around you which is huge in helping build resilience. To have that knowledge that you can empower a patient to regain any element of control and choice over their lives at a time when things become structured by hospital appointments and treatments, I think you can change the focus from the condition and what the person can’t do to what the person can do. I think that really helps with that emotional side because you can turn a negative into a positive.

A family approach Including the whole family in palliative care is of vital importance and is something that the team at St Barnabas Hospice strive to provide.

They recognise that engaging family members in discussions about care, goals and support is extremely beneficial to the family as a whole and it can help open up difficult

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27

Palliative Care dialogue around their worries and concerns around end of life care and preferred place of care or death.

“I think as an OT I certainly engage in a lot of discussions with patients and family members around changes in role and relationship.

It’s something we see change and evolve throughout a patient’s journey and I think engaging in discussion around this often supports family members and patients in opening up around their worries, concerns and priorities for the patient. I think that is something that is really empowering as an OT in the hospice, being able to talk about those roles and relationships, that is a part of the job I really enjoy.

“Something that I have been able to do is supporting patients and family members in rediscovering their relationships and their roles despite the diagnosis and we don’t see the family members as an addition to that patient’s care.

“They can lose the balance, from daughter, son, father, mother, husband, wife – that all becomes diluted and the role of carer takes over. I think some of our work as OTs is really trying to support family members and patients in rediscovering their roles and relationships with each other.”

group – so it’s a really interesting model of bereavement support.”

Perceptions of death Jenny’s role in palliative care and at the hospice has given her a new and very open perspective when it comes to talking about death.

She even refers to death as an occupation.

St Barnabas Hospice offers an excellent wellbeing service which encompasses family support services and bereavement groups.

The internal structure means that they are able to offer that family support when it is needed, whether that be pre bereavement or post bereavement.

“I often refer to death as an occupation, it has meaning and purpose to the person with the diagnosis and also the family. The memories around that death and the years, months, days leading to the death, will live on with the family members and I think that is how I impact as an OT.

“If patients indicate they would like to have that support we can start that early on, we also offer support for after death, where we have one-to-one counselling within all the localities. There are also different levels of group support. We have a phased group approach where there is initially a very supportive structured group and then as time goes on and when people are ready, that group will transition into more of a social

“Death is one of the few certainties that we have in life and I think that the value in the job I do within the speciality is summed up there really. I think the role of OT within St Barnabas will continue to grow and it’s really exciting for us in the profession and the speciality. I think in Lincolnshire OTs and other AHPs are increasingly seen as strong leaders within organisations and I think that will continue to drive the

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value of the profession as well.”

Jenny and the team at St Barnabas pride themselves on their approach to palliative care. The whole team has an understanding of the vital rehabilitation they can offer and know the difference that rehab can make to a person’s life, no matter what stage they are at in their care.

“One of my quests in life as an OT within palliative care and certainly as the AHP lead for St Barnabas Hospice is to challenge the perception that people with a palliative condition have no ‘rehab potential’. It’s something as a team we continue to see, I think it is another myth. We rehabilitate our patients who might be experiencing emotional or psychological distress as well as any physical limitations.

It may not be the traditional view of rehabilitation – getting someone up and walking – but we certainly rehabilitate patients to meet their own individual goals and I think that fundamentally is what rehabilitation is about - it shouldn’t be lost because of the patient’s condition. One of my quests in life is to dispel that myth.” stbarnabashospice.co.uk

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25 Issues

CELEBRATING

T

issues

his issue marks a quarter century of magazines for us here at The OT Magazine and it has left us reflective, excited and proud. As we reach halfway to 50, we have found ourselves looking back at how both the magazine and the profession has progressed since we first landed on your doorstep way back in 2014. From building a large network of impressive individuals

and groups from the world of OT to championing emerging roles, The OT Magazine has developed into both a vast source of CPD and something you can sit and enjoy at your leisure with a cup of tea.

To celebrate reaching this milestone, we take a trip down memory lane and have a look at 25 things that have both made the magazine and changed the course of the profession. ď ľ

1

First issue

Our first ever issue landed all the way back in November 2014, when editor Ros took the leap into creating a new, useful, fun and educational tool for occupational therapists to sink their teeth into. In the issue that explored the likes of OT in HIV care we introduced our long serving columnist and expert Kate Sheehan who has been with us ever since.

2

First OT Show

Our first experience of The OT Show was actually as visitors, as we took in the 2014 outing from the stands so to speak, but since 2015 we have enjoyed exhibiting and meeting our readers at the flagship show.

3

Our swat team of experts

We have cultivated quite the contacts book over the years, speaking to brilliant minds for features, but we could not have built such an attractive educational source without our great columnists Kate Sheehan, Dawn Blenkin, Caroline Molloy, Adam Ferry, Paul Aitken, Yvonne Thomas and the WFOT.

MORE ON THE NEXT PAGE ďƒ˘

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25 Issues

9

25 Days in the Life Of

As of this issue, we have lifted the lid on the typical day of 25 OTs. We put the spotlight on you, letting us in on the good, the bad and the ugly of your role. From a case manager in our first issue, we have featured those working in the likes of CAMHS, first response units and independent OTs.

10

Assistive Technology

7

100 Years of OT

4

Understanding the wide world of OT

Explaining what you do for a living can be difficult, but The OT Magazine knows that it is more than just a holistic care role, and we make sure we cover all areas of the profession as best we can.

5

Championing emerging roles

OT has come a long way since its inception, and emerging roles are a huge part of the industry now.

Recognising this, we have looked at its place in the likes of dementia care and homelessness.

Exactly one year ago, we celebrated 100 years of this great profession. Marking the centenary anniversary with a beautiful cover, we ran through its history, from the founding meeting in New York in 1917, to the first OT in the UK through to the present day.

8

Becoming CPD Certified

Last year, we celebrated becoming CPD certified meaning we can be The Care Act registered in your CPD The 2014 Care Act file. We take pride in our proved a huge turning point ability to call on experts for the care industry and and provide professional in that, The OT Magazine sources of information opened up the discussion so by getting the seal of further and looked at how approval, we took our the change in legislation educational value to a affected OT. new level.

6

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As with every sector, increasing technological progress has made its mark on the world of OT. With artificial intelligence and assistive technology growing, we have delved into how it can complement your course of treatment.

11

The future OTs

A huge part of The OT Magazine is encouraging the future of OT and provide a platform for students to air their views. From opinion and advice pieces, to features on university projects and events, the new wave of OTs play a vital role in the community we have cultivated.

12

Moving with the Times

The world of OT has also changed a great deal in the past four years, with legislation and practice changing. Understanding the trade is key for us at The OT Magazine to provide essential, up-to-date and newsworthy content to support you in your learning and profession.

13

Keeping it Light

The OT Magazine knows that OTs have a hand in every part of life, down to the lighter things like laser tag as an intervention for children and adapting beauty rituals for those with arthritis.

25 Issues

14

Tackling the Heavy

But we do know that OTs have a pivotal place in the headier fields of healthcare.

A clinical but emotive role and since our beginnings, we have looked at mental health, gender transition, homelessness and palliative care.

15

Our OTs Abroad

OT is an international profession and looking at how the profession plays out elsewhere has been another enjoyable part of our magazine and we have (so to speak) visited the US, Canada, Sri Lanka and Australia amongst others.

18

Meeting Michael Iwama At the 2017 OT Show, we were lucky enough to spend some time with one of the OT world’s most highly regarded figures, Michael Iwama. The brain behind the Kawa Model took the time to discuss the magazine with us during exhibitor drinks after the first day of action at the NEC.

16

Looking After Yourselves

Self care has become a bit of a buzzword in recent years, but as care givers its importance cannot be underestimated. We have explored mindfulness and selfcare, calling on knowledgeable contributors to ensure you are best placed to provide top class care.

17

Mental Health Series

While mental health has always had a lofty presence in our pages, in 2016 we introduced our mental health series, where we linked up with a number of mental health specialists, tackling eating disorders, OCD and much more.

21

23

22

24

Keeping it Social

We have also built up a great online presence away from our website, ensuring we have a fun, useful and exciting social media life, allowing our readers to connect with other OTs from all four corners of the world.

We Heart OT

Last year, we started giving out our branded tote bags to allow you to show the world you “heart OT”.

Alongside this, we have also run competitions, giving away a Fitbit and tickets to huge exhibitions and conferences.

Independent OTs

The world of OT is growing more than ever, with greater opportunities arising every day. With many taking the plunge and becoming selfemployed and independent OTs, we provide top expert advice on how to maintain this working pattern.

Recruitment and Training

We aren’t just an educational and advisory publication though, we also actively work with companies to support you into employment and point you in the direction of avenues where you can put your theory into practice.

25

Fantastic Covers

19

Shop till you Drop

From daily living aids to larger products, every issue we bring you new and innovative products to recommend to your client to help them live a comfortable life.

From bright and fun, to thoughtprovoking and attention grabbing, our covers have been essential in branding ourselves as a professional resource and digestible and enjoyable read to sit back and relax with.

Here’s to another 25 issues.

20

Paediatrics Section

Early intervention is a part of OT that can help lay foundations for greater independent living. Each issue, we delve into the world of paediatrics to support those helping the youngest generation.

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33

Product

Focus

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

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NATURAL SOUNDS

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2 Soothing Sounds Dial 0800 567 7222 mobilitysmart.cc This compact dial offers 12 natural sounds and ambient compositions to help people to relax and unwind. They can help to relieve stress and insomnia and can even offer a respite from tinnitus. Simple to use, the dial also has a timer with an optional fade to allow people to drift off to sleep naturally.

MORE PRODUCTS ON NEXT PAGE ď ľ

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Product

Focus

3 Lifemax antispill mug

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0161 452 7577 | uksmobility.co.uk Ergonomic, colourful and sleek, this anti-spill mug is the perfect vessel for hot drink lovers. It has a 470ml capacity, is made of BPA-free materials, has a thin wall of insulation and a non-spill lid. The mug has a suction design to keep the cup on the desk, which prevents bumps and knocks from tipping the cup over.

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Designed as a soothing solution for people living with dementia who experience restlessness, fidgeting and anxiety. These handmade blankets are colourful, beautifully designed and each one is unique. They can help with maintaining fine motor skills by encouraging use of buttons, zips and laces among other things.

5 Compression socks

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compressionsockshop.co.uk Comfortable and luxurious, these compression socks have a high content of cotton that helps provide support to legs and feet. Ideal for those prone to varicose veins or who stand or sit for long periods of time. Easy to take on and off, they look stylish too.

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The new VIP 2 is the updated version of the VIP series of folding tilt in space wheelchairs, building on many years of experience of design and development.

As well as 35 degree tilt it now has either fixed or adjustable recline.

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Sliding has always been one of the greatest concerns for people in a standard reclining chair. The VIP2 solves this problem by locating the reclining pivot point of the chair close to the human hip joint, which synchronizes the motion of the body and the chair.

The VIP 2 is light and folds fitting easily into a car boot.

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This elegant and contemporary indoor rollator is designed to assist you around the home. Its stable and robust frame will keep you steady and the optional tray and basket are great to carry necessities from room to room. Available in a range of colours.

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Nightdress

0800 051 1931 | adaptawear.com This pretty, open back nightdress is designed for ladies unable to wear a traditional ‘over the head’ nightdress.

Ideal for stroke survivors, people who have MS, rheumatoid arthritis, motor neurone disease or those who have post viral fatigue syndrome. It can also reduce distress for dementia patients who dislike clothes going over their heads.

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8 Alinker pyxisonline.co.uk The bright and happy Alinker is a revolutionary new mobility assistance product that helps users move around easily and independently. Whether quietly wandering through an art gallery or running down tree-lined paths, the Alinker keeps the user active at their own speed.

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39

Jelly Drops Lewis Hornby was inspired by his gran to create Jelly Drops – a fun, colourful, and hydrating sweet for people with dementia.

Image © Facebook

Hydration Salvation

E

ngineering graduate Lewis Hornby’s masters project at the Royal College of Art was one close to his heart – inspired by his grandmother, who lives with dementia, he created Jelly Drops, a jelly sweet designed to help aid hydration for people who may otherwise struggle or forget to drink water.

Pat, Lewis’ gran, was taken to hospital in the past suffering from dehydration. “About a year ago my grandma was unexpectedly rushed to hospital,” Lewis wrote. “She was found to be severely dehydrated.

Thankfully, after 24 hours on IV fluids she was back to her normal happy self, and is still enjoying a good quality of life to this day.

Unfortunately for the 850,000 people in the UK with dementia, this isn’t uncommon, and many aren’t as lucky as my grandma Pat.” Dehydration is a common problem among those with memory impairments, who struggle to remember to eat and drink. Even when the brain signals that it’s time to drink, those signals don’t always work correctly in people with dementia – and the problem is exacerbated by medications and dementia-related illnesses which can contribute to dehydration.

He was inspired by a visit to his 40

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Image © Facebook

DROPS: Lewis’s gran Pat eating the sweets

gran’s care home, where he noticed that the residents who also lived with memory impairments may have struggled to eat when presented with a plate of food, but instinctively knew how to eat with their hands when presented with a box of chocolates.

The colourful little sweets are made of over 90% water, gelling agents and electrolytes, and are chunky enough to be picked up with ease by those who have weak grips. In Lewis’ original design, they come inside a sleek white box, which is chunky enough to be easily picked up and handled, and is also designed to act

as a high contrast to the colourful sweets for people with visual impairments.

Seven Jelly Drops are equivalent to a full cup of water – Lewis noted that his gran would take hours and require significant assistance to drink a cup of water. The entire box of Jelly Drops is equivalent to around half of a person’s daily fluid intake.

The solid form of the sweets are more hydrating as they take longer for the body to break down, making it easier for the kidneys to absorb the water.

Lewis was adamant that what he designed would not be “offensive” to people with dementia, noticing that they are often mollycoddled or treated like children, or that the hydration systems on offer for them are too medical. Lewis’ design is fun, and its design emulating a box of chocolates or sweets makes them fun and shareable.

After his creation went viral, Lewis is now working to make Jelly Drops a commercial reality. Hopefully, these fun little drops of life-saving hydration will be available to buy soon!

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OT IN PAKISTAN

Inclusive

classrooms A three year project led by specialist OT Dr Debbie Kramer-Roy has seen a collaboration between occupational therapists and teachers from the UK and Pakistan introduce inclusive education in classrooms in Pakistan.

The results have seen all children, not just those with additional needs, benefit from the collaboration. We spoke to Dr KramerRoy to find out more about the project and the experience of introducing a new way of working in a country where occupational therapy is not well established. 

D

r Kramer-Roy explained that the project came about as a research brief for her PhD. Having lived and worked in Pakistan for nine years, she had returned to the UK to do her PhD and took a role as a lecturer at Brunel University.

Following contact with colleagues in Pakistan and a visit to discuss research priorities with OTs, OT students and faculty members, as well as disabled people’s organisations and community organisations, one of the priorities that arose was inclusive education.

When an opportunity for funding came up through the British Council, Dr Kramer-Roy enquired and the research project into inclusive education became a reality. The criteria for the funding stated that a UK university must be partnered with an overseas university and one other nonuniversity partner overseas. So Brunel University London linked up with Dow University of Health Sciences Karachi in Pakistan alongside The AMI School that they had good links with already.

Dr Kramer-Roy goes on to explain the aim of the project: “As we were starting to prepare the proposal it was quite clear that, not just for me but for the Pakistani partners as well, that there were two levels of objectives.

“One was for occupational therapists to try to figure out what their role in inclusive education should be and to improve that input.

The other thing that was really important was that they have almost zero opportunities for continued professional development, there is no masters in OT available yet for example. So it’s really difficult for them to progress with their professional development and they are aware of it so the capacity building of the OTs as well as the teachers, both in terms of research and in this case action and research methodology, and professionally was almost equally as important. It

Inclusive Classrooms was the capacity building alongside the very specifics of what OT should look like as it is supporting inclusion.”

Building understanding The first year of the project was spent establishing an understanding between the occupational therapists and teachers as this collaborative working method was quite alien to them. Initially the teachers struggled to reason with why OTs were sitting in their classrooms and OTs felt insecure in the unfamiliar setting.

However, with time came understanding.

“The OTs would make INCLUSIVE: Small changes helped all the children suggestions and some observations and they [the teachers] would realise that the benefits that it could have on actually they have got really good the class as a whole. Many of the knowledge about how children schools they visited were very under develop and what development resourced which posed another needs might mean for their learning challenge for the OT and teacher at school. And vice versa, the OTs teams to find a solution of how were sitting there in awe that this to make the collaboration work in teacher could work with a class of those environments.

25 children and keep them all on “It was very interesting, also for task. So once they realised that, it the teachers because they had became really a strong team and been doing it in their own school they were very collaborative in the with their own resources and now whole planning, because the action suddenly they were in schools that research is very much working were very poorly resourced and together on their observation, they had to think about what to do. exchanging ideas of what is They learned a lot – not just about happening. If it was an individual inclusive education – about how child they would discuss what it you bring about change in might be that is making it difficult for the child, what could I then do as a teacher to make an inclusive lesson plan and then the OT would give ideas of how that might work for that child so that the plan for the whole class would become practical for both the individual who was struggling and the class as a whole.”

The second year involved OT and teacher teams visiting other schools to present the benefits of the working collaboration and

the schools.”

The positive outcomes of creating an inclusive lesson plan could be seen by the teachers and OTs and those experiences helped to grow confidence in the collaboration.

“The nice thing was that even though sometimes they were planning an inclusive lesson plan and really they had just a child with difficulties in retention in mind, they very quickly realised that the lesson plan then helped other children in the class who they had never identified as having difficulties, but they did better as well. They were more able to pass their test or interact, so then they became 

“It was very interesting, also for the teachers because they had been doing it in their own school with their own resources and now suddenly they were in schools that were very poorly resourced and they had to think about what to do.”

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43

Inclusive Classrooms

convinced by their own experiences that inclusivity was good for all the children in the school and that was a really important aspect.”

Outcomes The project culminated with a resource guide that was produced from the information collated from all the logs the teachers and OTs kept, including photographs of activities with the children. They also drew on the WFOT’s vision paper on schoolbased OT which was published in 2016, in the middle of the project. It strongly supported their tiered approach as Dr Kramer-Roy explains: “You GUIDE: A resource guide for teachers and OTs has been produced have the primary level of intervention that looks that they can still take part in exactly at the whole school environment, the same curriculum and exactly the that includes the physical and social same activities. environment with teachers etc and then that means you are going to “The tertiary level is really what make sure that the environment OTs have traditionally been doing, in all its senses is as accessible as is work on that impairment level possible for all the or very individualised children you have in intervention. So your school or could inclusive education is “The tertiary potentially have in not saying that that level is really your school – that tertiary level shouldn’t also includes a lesson what OTs have happen at all it’s just planning that is much traditionally been saying that really your more inclusive. starting point shouldn’t doing, is work on be that, your starting “The secondary level that impairment point should be that of intervention, you you work with schools might notice that level or very to become more some children still individualised inclusive overall at a find it quite difficult intervention.” primary level.” to access certain activities and then you would adapt within that same lesson plan – you might say this child can’t quite see so either you move them in the class or you see that this child needs photocopies from A4 to A3 so that they can see better. There could be all sorts of reasons that this child could need slight adjustments so 44

-magazine.co.uk

The guide focuses on how inclusive education can be implemented in Pakistani schools, with a resource in the back of the guide with links to texts on different disabilities and conditions that children may present. The purpose of the guide was to show Pakistani teachers, school managers and OTs that

inclusive education is doable in the Pakistani context. It highlights real life examples of work done in Pakistani schools at different socio-economic levels and neighbourhoods and shows that inclusive education can be done without a lot of money.

 Find out more Inclusive Education in Pakistan: A Resource Guide for Teachers and Occupational Therapists, edited by Dr Debbie Kramer-Roy, is available as a free download in English and in Urdu from www.otiepakistan.pk.

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Bionics Talk

A ROBOTICS

The Nature of Machines Bionics represent the intersection of technology and machines, and the way they can be applied to human bodies could see prosthetics changed forever.

t the intersection of nature and technology, there is bionics: the application of engineering to replicate systems and methods found in nature. In science, the classic example is that of the lotus effect: the lotus flower is famed for its slick surface which water does not stick to, and it became the inspiration for water and dirt repellent paint. We see it everywhere in our lives but rarely realise it is there: Velcro was inspired by the hooks on the surface of burs which stuck to the inventor’s dog, ultrasound and radar took great inspiration from echolocation, the process animals like bats use to calculate distance based on the time sounds take to bounce back to them off objects.

In the world of science fiction, our imaginations have taken us further than modern scientific practices have managed. RoboCop is… well, he’s a robotic policeman; a man whose body was rebuilt by technology after an accident, existing as little more than a face and brain inside a suit of bionic armour.

Star Trek showed us Geordi La Forge wearing a visor which, along with bio-implants, allowed him to see in spite of being blind from birth, and Captain Jean-Luc Picard living with an artificial heart after an accident early in his career. Anakin Skywalker received a bionic arm after his was amputated in a fight with Count Dooku, which was later upgraded to an entire bionic suit after a fight with Obi-Wan Kenobi resulted in the loss of his legs and other arm – resulting in him becoming Darth Vader.

We might be a bit far from existing as a face and brain inside a Kevlarcoated robotic exoskeleton like RoboCop, but bionic eyes, arms, legs, feet and spines are slowly becoming a reality outside of the realms of fiction. In 2012, Dr Dianne Ashworth received a bionic eye implant from Bionic Vision Australia at the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital in Melbourne, which enabled her to see outlines of people and objects. Robotic exoskeletons

46

-magazine.co.uk

Bionics Talk are helping paraplegic people to walk, and in 2015, an Austrian surgeon successfully pioneered bionic reconstruction by removing a hand from a patient which was only partially functioning and replacing it with a fully bionic one. Every single day, a person with hearing loss is fitted with cochlear implants – functionally, bionic ears – which use electric signals to compensate for or replace hearing through biological means.

Doctor Hugh Herr is a fascinating figure in the world of bionics: a rock climber, an engineer, a biophysicist and a double amputee.

Herr is a professor at the MIT Media Lab, where he works as part of MIT’s Center for Extreme Bionics, developing wearable robotic systems for people with a huge assortment of impairments. Aside from this, he is an accomplished climber, whose legs required amputation after being caught in a blizzard while climbing Mount Washington, New Hampshire in January 1982.

Speaking at TED2014, Herr said that he does not view his body as “broken,” saying: “Technology is broken. Technology is inadequate.

This simple but powerful idea was a call to arms, to advance technology for the elimination of my own disability, and ultimately, the disability of others.

“I began by developing specialised limbs that allowed me to return to the vertical world of rock and ice climbing. I quickly realised that the artificial part of my body is malleable; able to take on any form, any function -- a blank slate for which to create, perhaps, structures that could extend beyond biological capability.

I made my height adjustable. I could be as short as five feet or as tall as I’d like.”

Herr used technological innovation to make himself stronger, faster, and a better climber with narrow edged prosthetic feet, and was struck by how his impairment was simply a blank canvas for him to adapt and build upon as he saw fit. Currently,

BIONIC: Dr Hugh Herr shows off the various prosthetic limbs he has helped design, that let him walk and rock climb

Adrianne Haslet-Davis to the audience. She is a ballroom dancer, and in Herr’s words, she lives and breathes dance. “It is her art form,” he says. Adrianne lost her left leg in the Boston terrorist attack, preventing her from returning to the dancefloor she loves so much.

he wears a pair of prosthetic limbs which feature the BiOM Ankle System, the first leg prosthesis to successfully imitate the standard biological walking gait through biomechanical means.

If you were to watch Herr move without seeing his prosthetics, it would be almost impossible to figure that he was actually wearing them.

Electrodes connect to his biological limb and recognise when Herr thinks about moving his phantom limb, and lo and behold, the biomechanical limb moves, just as his biological ankles would have done. The materials that his team at MIT have modelled the leg from imitate the tension and hardness of muscles. He can comfortably walk and run using a comfortable gait.

The absolute delicacy and precision of the technology cannot be underestimated: in the same TED2014 talk, Herr introduces

With the help of his team at MIT, Herr built her a bionic limb. She took to the floor at TED2014 to dance for the first time since the attack, outfitted with her bionic limb, and burst into tears as soon as she seemed to realise: she was dancing again. The precision and grace of her limb are impeccable; when she thinks, it moves. And it moves just as her biological limb would have. The fluidity of her movement is there, and it makes for a powerful image.

Bionics are paving an incredible way for people with impairments; as Herr said, he is not disabled, technology and society are. As incredible innovators like Dr Hugh Herr and his team at MIT continue to revolutionise exactly what technology and biotechnology can do for people, they expand the limits of humanity and power towards a total biotechnological utopia, where those who wish to employ biomechanics in their life can see their dream realised.  -magazine.co.uk

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 A DVE R TI SI NG FE ATURE

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It’s a very effective way to identify areas of high pressure. ( C. Turville / The Orders of St. John Trust)

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It is very effective and interesting to see it working.

What a good way to aid prevention. (S. Barrass / The Orders of St. John Trust)

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48

-magazine.co.uk

Parkinson’s Pathway

NEUROLOGICAL

Parkinson’s pathway A new learning pathway has been developed as part of the UK Parkinson’s Excellence Network to help occupational therapists, physiotherapists and speech and language therapists to easily access information, tips and guidance to improve their Parkinson’s-specific skills and care.

A

na Aragon is a senior OT specialising in Parkinson’s disease and she works with Parkinson’s UK. Ana has a wealth of experience working with people living with Parkinson’s and has traversed the complex journey that this fluctuating condition throws at both the patient and the healthcare professional working with them.

Ana was one of the authors of Occupational Therapy for People with Parkinson’s: Best Practice Guidelines in 2010 and the 2018 updated version has just been published.

The learning pathway has been in development for about 18 months to provide a vital resource to healthcare professionals working specifically with people with Parkinson’s disease.

We spoke to Ana about the difficulties that occupational therapists can encounter when

assessing and rehabilitating a patient with Parkinson’s disease and what this new resource can offer to help OTs. “Everything that had come before in my clinical experience was completely turned upside down working with people with Parkinson’s because they need a very conditionspecific approach when you are working as an OT assessing and rehabilitating, it’s the nature of the condition.

“When you assess them they don’t have a level of function, but have two relative extremes and they can switch between these two states hour by hour, minute by minute, through the 24 hour day. It’s a very fluctuating complex condition.

We have to use a very conditionspecific approach to work with these individuals as therapists.”

Ana explaines that the fluctuation

can be as extreme as a patient being able to mow their lawn one day to having to use a wheelchair the next and struggling to even drink through a straw without assistance, so assessing their function and ability can be very difficult.

“It’s really important for OTs to explore the range of ability so that treatment can be focused at the times when people have the greatest difficulties because there will be times of the day when functional tasks can be performed with ease, it makes it really hard to assess somebody – it’s called paradoxical movement.

“Even things like when you try to perform an assessment they may well perform uncharacteristic behaviour because you are watching them. We teach people to concentrate to improve their performance so when they are being watched they concentrate – we  -magazine.co.uk

49

Parkinson’s Pathway teach people to slow down, do one thing at a time, focus their attention, just like being in the moment – you have to kind of describe your movement.

“Classically lots of men with Parkinson’s will report having actually timed themselves in putting their clothes on – buttoning a shirt taking half an hour. And then you teach them to just talk through – ‘grip button, find hole, push button through hole, then pull’ – which is written on a little cue card, and then they can do it at normal speed which is a real revelation for the person concerned.

“Because Parkinson’s affects the real nuts and bolts, of movement particularly, but also thinking and planning and organisation, it makes the person experiencing it feel very childlike and it’s very humiliating not to be able to take your coat off when you get to the hospital or put it on at the end of the afternoon.

So, actually addressing these really minor elements of everyday function like getting out of a chair, changing direction when walking, getting through a doorway, those are the sort of things that they really struggle with.”

The Learning Pathway The learning pathway was launched at the end of July and has been created to bring together information, resources, courses to

expand learning and best practice guidelines relating to Parkinson’s.

Registering on the Parkinson’s UK website through the learning hub allows you to choose your profession and access relevant and appropriate materials to aid your learning and skills base. Access is available to anyone with an interest in this area and the resource has also been accessed by dance and exercise teachers who teach classes for people living Parkinson’s, researchers and many others.

There are general resources about Parkinson’s alongside information

on motor and non-motor symptoms caused by the condition. You will find short presentations, tips for interventions, red flags to look out for and many useful publications and courses signposted and linked to.

The pathway is designed to be a live document so they are encouraging allied health professionals to get in touch with any relevant learning opportunities for therapists in the UK. If you would like to advise them of any opportunities email education3@parkinsons.org.uk.

Visit parkinsons.org.uk to access the learning pathway.

PARKINSON’S FACTS Fact #1 145,000 people in the UK have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s 50

-magazine.co.uk

Fact #2 Parkinson’s is caused by a loss of dopamineproducing cells

Fact #3 Parkinson’s is not believed to be a hereditary condition

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CARE_CAM-01

C ETEC Firas Sarhan, Director of CETEC at Barnet Southgate College, explores the ethical practice when using assistive technology in a patient’s care plan.

Ethical implications of assistive technology

I

n recent years there has been an increased use of assistive technology (AT) to deliver remote monitoring of individuals who have health and social care needs. This is due to the complex development of technology that starts with a simple sensor alarm to monitor activities in a home environment and transfer clinical data to GPS based tracking devices.

The main purpose of AT is to permit users to remain in their own home environment. The main users of this technology are most likely to be elderly people with long term conditions, but in recent years we are seeing young individuals who have a degree of disability or vulnerability using this technology.

The development of new care pathways integrating technology

as a means of care has some ethical issues that professionals need to consider or address before, during and after installation of such technology to ensure the safety of users, as well as maintaining professional integrity when recommending the use of AT. Recent changes in health and social care services and the increased use of AT has opened a discussion and debate among professionals and patients group associations.

The topics of discussions are closely linked to: • AT is replacing human care rather than being supplementary to faceto-face care • Questioning of the efficacy and cost effectiveness of AT use • The “big brother” surveillance nature of certain AT linked to

privacy and confidentiality • The need of professional guidelines for professionals to consider when recommending AT to their clients • The need of knowledge development for professionals through competency-based training on AT. It is important to recognise AT allows the transfer of the control of care from staff to individuals, who are using the technological systems used in the remote monitoring of an individual’s wellbeing living at home and the transfer of personal clinical data. This transfer will have an impact on the delivery of care, decision making and safeguarding issues for those individuals who are vulnerable as a result of their medical condition.  -magazine.co.uk

53

Assistive Tech

For the purpose of maintaining an informative and holistic framework will consider Beauchamp and Childress’s ethical framework to support professionals in their decision making regarding the adoption of AT as a means of delivery for supportive care. Beauchamp and Childress’s (2001) outlined four major principles which are applicable to health and social care; autonomy (self-rule, ability of individual to make decisions and choices), beneficence (working for the benefit of the individual), nonmaleficence (doing no harm) and justice (moral obligations to act on a fair adjudication between conflicting claims).

So, what does Beauchamp and Childress’s Ethical framework mean to health and social care practitioners and other professionals who might be involved in the recommendation of AT technology use:

1

Confidentiality

It may be a problem in the use of AT that the professional and care delivery organisations maintain and protect confidential data. It is important to note that individuals under your care have the right to privacy regarding their medical details and records, individual’s privacy should be maintained unless waived in a meaningful way, disclosure of confidential data should be linked to care delivery and the purpose of treatment.

2

Autonomy

There is a need to have consent prior to the use of AT in the case of vulnerable groups. Consent is an essential element of the delivery of care, therefore it is essential that health and social care professionals 54

-magazine.co.uk

should obtain consent prior to any examination, treating or caring.

Health and social care professionals should be aware of local and national policies that govern issues linked to this, such as the Mental Capacity Act.

3

Information

Data security and transmission should be through a secure network to ensure the safe transfer of confidential data. Organisations and professionals should consider technology offers of some safeguards in firewalls and encryption protocols.

Professionals need to ensure that there is a rigorous measure of protecting an individual’s electronic records and data.

4

Individual’s privacy

Professionals should be aware that maintaining privacy through the use of technology is a huge challenge but should be considered and maintained when possible. It should be outlined that the legal implication of confidentiality is the relationship between the individuals rather than the technological means of communication. Professionals and organisations should be aware of the following primary policies relevant to legal and ethical aspects of AT; Data Protection Act and the Computer Misuse Act.

5

Professional standards and regulations

It is the responsibility of each professional to follow the appropriate guidelines and protocols that their professional body recommends during the assessment, implementation and evaluation of the use of AT in supporting vulnerable

individuals under your care.

6

Law application to AT equipment

All AT equipment used should be certified and identified as fit for purpose. AT used should be fully operational and regularly tested for its functionality.

7

Operational risks due to AT

Professional staff should be aware that there are adverse incidents that might be linked to the use of AT such as, low quality equipment, inappropriate use of equipment, inadequate training and poor documentation. Professionals should be aware of such adverse technology risks such as the malfunctioning of AT equipment, inadequate guidelines and lack of suitable AT equipment.

8

Operational risks due to professionals

There are risks associated with the use of AT which could have an impact of the quality of care and the effectiveness of the technological use in both health and social care. These issues are poor communication, limited ability, poor training, poor delegation and decision making, and unclear responsibility within the team. This is why it’s recommended that all professionals using AT should have competency-based training to enhance their knowledge and skills in AT application and to ensure individuals and professional safety. 

 Further information If you have any further queries you can contact Firas at firas.sarhan@ barnetsouthgate.ac.uk. For more information on CETEC visit barnetsouthgate.ac.uk/cetec.

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Ma ke Up

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Keep your clients feeling beautiful and like themselves while living with arthritic conditions

I

dentity is a huge part of our selfworth and self-purpose. The people we were and the people we have become doesn’t change when dexterity becomes limited or we are diagnosed with conditions such as arthritis.

For many, makeup doesn’t just mean covering imperfections or enhancing their appearance.

It may be the war paint they need to feel like themselves or face the world.

Just scratch the surface and you realise that makeup is more than a swipe of blusher or a lick of lippie.

For many it’s embroiled not just in their daily routine, but it’s what makes them. Beauty isn’t skin deep, but OTs can help people find easier ways to get their slap on. Whether they wouldn’t be seen dead without their mascara or they just don’t want to lose part of their current daily beauty rituals, there are ways to keep a client with limited dexterity feeling themselves.

There’s a number of ways of doing this, with the beauty industry becoming bigger and more accessible than ever. Makeup 

-magazine.co.uk

57

Beauty Make Up

“Picking up adapted application skills from the pros is a great place to start” is all done to personal tastes and styles, so by letting your client in on the process from the start allows you both to get the most out of the experience. There is a plethora of beauty bloggers, vloggers and influencers with disabilities online that may be a great springboard to start off with. While this talented bunch have a range of disabilities and looks you can hone in on the ones that inspire your client the most. Even if they don’t identify with the specific style of makeup, the adapted skillset can be transferred to a more favourable palette.

new kit is a bit unreasonable, you can wrap the brushes in rubber bands or buy rubber pencil grips to make it more secure and reduce injury risk. Sponges may become awkward to grasp, so moving to brushes or learning how to blend using clean hands may be a step your client could take. You can also look at different dexterity interventions to find the most painless and comfortable way for your client to handle brushes.

Picking up adapted application skills from the pros is a great place to start, but you can also help by recommending adapted brushes and other tools or upcycle their current makeup bag to an easier to use one. Thicker handled brushes are obviously easier to grip and manoeuvre, but if buying a whole

Occupational therapists know that it isn’t all finding the perfect seating solution or recommending a new intervention but boosting your client’s confidence and keeping themselves feeling like themselves, despite their circumstances. It’s the simple things. 

Your client may not necessarily have to completely alter how they apply their face, rather just change the number or type of products used.

Lips and Eyeliners

Some lip and eyeliners can be thin and fiddly, so replacing them for a chunkier crayon may be another option.

Sometimes less is more, but if your client isn’t quite ready to embrace a more stripped back look why not find products for them that double up. BB creams or CC creams can be used as an alternative to using moisturiser, primer and foundation. Certain lipsticks may also be easier to apply or switch to a tinted or coloured lipbalm that requires less precision and allows for imperfection. It’s also key to ensure the makeup used is easy to open and not fiddly, small or have tight twist off lids.

Eyelashes

A more semi-permanent idea and great confidence booster may be to have their eyelashes lifted and tinted. Some tinted lashes can last for up to a few months depending on the beauty therapist and remove the need for mascara and sometimes eyeliner. Waking up every morning with lovely, thick and fluttery eyelashes can be a great confidence boost.

58

-magazine.co.uk

Occupational Therapy At Your Fingertips

Blue badges and hidden disabilities

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The new criteria for Occupational Therapists

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n June 2018 the Department for Transport agreed to clarify the criteria for eligibility for Blue Badges to be more inclusive of people living with hidden disabilities, providing parity between mental and physical health conditions.

Occupational Therapists, with their broad knowledge and experience of holistic assessment techniques, are one of the best-placed professions to fairly determine eligibility.

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the challenges and opportunities presented by this change in criteria and the work being done to provide OTs with the tools and guidance they need to confidently make eligibility decisions and lead the way in this new and evolving area.

Stephen Naylor, MD of Access Independent, and Sue Gray, Senior OT in the blue badge assessment service, will be joined by Fern Silverio, Head of Service - Collections & Housing Benefits for the London Borough of Harrow, and Shaidi Khan, Accessible

Transport Manager for the London Borough of Southwark, to discuss the upcoming changes and the vital role Occupational Therapists have to play.

To learn more about the opportunities for Occupational Therapists and the work being done to support them please join us at this year’s OT show, Stand H31.

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Bespoke specialist seating company, Repose and OT, Kate Sheehan explore the process of choosing the correct seating to support a patient with osteoarthritis.

Words by Kate Sheehan, Repose Furniture

W

SEATING SUPPORT

e all spend a lot of time sitting in a chair, whether it’s at work, at home or during recreational activities. While it is important for all of us that we sit in a chair that allows us to sit comfortably for long periods of time, it is of vital importance for someone living with a condition such as osteoarthritis to have the correct supportive seating solution.

Osteoarthritis is a common degenerative condition that causes pain and inflammation in a joint.

In the UK there are over 8 million people who have osteoarthritis. It mainly affects those over the age of 45 however, it can occur at any age because of an injury or another joint-related condition. In osteoarthritis, the connective tissue that provides a cushion in the joint space between the bones gradually erodes, causing pain, inflammation and a build up of fluid in the joints. Because there is a reduced barrier between the bones in the joint, they begin to rub together which can lead to further pain and swelling. It can also then lead to swelling and the formation of bony growths on the edge of the bones and therefore deforming the joint. The joints that are most commonly affected are those in the hips, knees and spine but it can occur in other joints in the body also.

Osteoarthritis

Every person with osteoarthritis will have a different experience of the condition and the impact on ď ľ -magazine.co.uk

61

Seating solution “If we sit in a chair that is the wrong height, the pressure on the lower limb joints and spine can increase.” them, but the most common symptoms that people experience include pain, stiffness in the affected joints, muscle weakness, swelling around the joints, reduced range of motion, and a grinding or grating of the joint when it moves. Over time these symptoms can lead to a reduced ability to use the joint as you want to.

If the joints aren’t working as well as they should be, choosing and using seating that promotes comfort, good posture and ease of use becomes very important.

When seated pressure is being placed throughout our body, in the hips, spine, through the legs and even in our arms and shoulders. If we sit in a chair that is the wrong height, the pressure on the lower limb joints and spine can increase.

When standing up from a chair you’ll place pressure through your feet, knees, hips, spine and, if you are using armrests to help get up, you’ll also be putting pressure through

THINGS TO

1

HEIGHT

The height of the chair must allow them to sit with their feet flat on the floor. If the chair is too low, it will put unnecessary pressure on the hip and knee joints. Too high and it can put pressure on the spine and leave the legs unsupported.

2

WIDTH

The seat width needs to provide enough support to prevent slumping to either side of the chair as this can cause unnecessary pressure on joints on one side of the body.

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the shoulders, elbows and hands. If you’ve already got deteriorating and painful joints because of osteoarthritis the last thing you want to do is cause further unnecessary strain and damage to the joint.

Therefore, it’s critical to really think about what you are using a chair for, how and when you plan to use it and how you are going to get out of it.

As osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition, people living with it need to find ways to complete daily living tasks that put as little unnecessary strain on their joints as possible. There are various ways to do this including learning different techniques, using supportive equipment and planning activities carefully. Having a good quality and supportive chair can not only provide good comfort and

consider..

Osteoarthiritis

SEATING C HECKLIST Is the seat

Does it all ow the use r to sit in a position that prom otes good posture?

Does it red uce any pre ssure dam from sittin age g for prolo nged perio ds?

Does it en able them to carry ou normal ac t tivities wh ils t in a seate position? d Does it all ow movem ent in and of the cha out ir as easily as possible ?

support, but can enable you to complete more activities, with less strain on your joints and less pain. And surely that is something that is worth investing in. 

 More about Repose Repose will be showcasing their range of bespoke seating solutions on stand C01 at The OT Show. reposefurniture.co.uk

3

5

4

6

DEPTH

The seat depth should be long enough to support the upper part of the legs whilst allowing your back to rest comfortably on the backrest. If the seat is too long they are likely to slouch in the chair to get their feet on the floor, which puts extra pressure on the lower spine.

THE ARMS

The arms should be at a suitable height to enable a resting position that does not push the shoulders upwards. The arms should also be of a suitable style and height so that they can use them to support their body weight when getting in or out of the chair.

comfortab le?

RISING FUNCTION

Think about if a rising function is beneficial as this can take a considerable amount of strain away from the joints as the mechanics of the chair will assist when getting in and out of the chair.

MATERIAL

Think about the material used in the chair and the quality of this. Having materials in the seat cushion, backrest and arms that are firm and supportive are likely to be more beneficial than having soft materials that won’t support the body.

R TE REE GIS R F RE FO W NO

THE OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY SHOW...

Access over 80 hours of free CPD Learn from world-class speakers and experts in their field Network with thousands of colleagues and peers Get practical advice and share best practice Update knowledge across all therapy areas Research and source new products and services Hear industry and regulation updates Have fun. Be inspired

Register for your FREE place now:

21st and 22nd Nov 2018 NEC Birmingham

www.theotshow.com/OTmag Welcoming

www.theotshow.com

The OT Show

The Occupational Therapy Show

@theotshow

@theotshow

L-R: Dawn Hales, Expert Witness & Independent OT • Colin Jones, Independent & Lead OT • Ruth Gwynn-Thomas, OT Intermediate Care

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All the latest from the world of paediatrics

n o i t c e S

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Take a break llness or disability for a young child can cause a huge amount of distress for them and their family.

Hospital appointments, medical tests, check ups and bad days can all cause concern and disruption to a child’s life.

I

Missing out on attending school can be a major issue for many families. Not only does it affect the scope for learning and education but it also impacts on a child’s social life. Not being able to chat with friends and learn at the same rate in class can be very detrimental to a child’s mental health.

However, there seems to be a new wave of technology that is bridging the gap for students with disabilities or long-term illnesses to be present in school via a robot.

That’s right we did say robots. These amazing devices allow children to attend lessons, learn, work with others in the class, all via cameras in these adorable robots. Find out more on page 76.

For families with disabled children, respite can be hard to come by, as can expensive pieces of equipment. We spoke to Jacqui Lowe who started Trusted Breaks and Charley Bubbles – a respite centre and charity that has been created in the memory of her daughter.

The centre is designed to offer families with 14-25 year olds with complex needs a beautiful home away from home to recharge and enjoy the beautiful and accessible surroundings, including a sensory garden. Read more on page 67.

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You will find plenty of innovative products on page 73 for your younger patients too. 

Read on to find out more...

-magazine.co.uk

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OTAC Events 2019

Event dates have been released!

• Chester

Occupational Therapist?

Wednesday 6th February

• Leeds

• Southampton

• Torquay

• Newcastle

Say hello to the UK’s only FREE occupational therapy adaptations conference and exhibition.

• Cambridge

• Kent

Each year we help thousands of occupational therapists all over the UK access advice, to network, receive guidance and best practice for FREE!

• Reading

• Cardiff

At the same time we ensure the organisations that support the work of occupational therapy find the contacts they need to grow their operations and support more people.

With all our locations around the UK, you’ll find an event that’s right for you, and when you attend an OTAC event, you’ll discover advice and help to:

RANT

Y

W

AR

(T) 0844 811 1158

Wednesday 24th April

Wednesday 1th May

Wednesday 12th June

Wednesday 10th July

Wednesday 11th September

Tuesday 22th October

Wednesday 6th November

Featuring

Wednesday 4th December

Sponsored by

Technical Roadshow

Feel confident and competent when writing adaptation recommendations Aid you in discovering new skills and equipment to make their clients’ lives better and easier

All 9 Events Proudly Sponsored by

Make a real difference in the lives of people all over the UK All completely FREE!

To book your FREE ticket for your local event or to find out more details head over to otac.org.uk Alternatively, call 02921 900402 or contact Sally at sally@promoting-independence.co.uk

www.otac.org.uk

Section C HA RLE Y BU BBLES

Where there’s

happiness,

there’s hope

Trusted Breaks and Charley Bubbles are a new respite centre and charity started by Jacqui Lowe, in the spirit and memory of her beautiful daughter, Charley.

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area, and the pièce de résistance, a centre for 14 to 25 year olds with complex disabilities, profound special gorgeous sensory garden. needs and additional needs, allowing Charley Bubbles, named for her daughter, is the charitable arm of whole families to have a short break. the project, which will help families The couple moved into their garage access respite, and get the equipment in order to convert the house into a they need to ensure great quality of totally accessible respite centre. The life. Jacqui tells The OT Magazine that house is beautiful, with a spacious she doesn’t want anyone to waste hallway, bedrooms with ceiling years of their life – years they could hoists, secure bars and adjustable spend with their loved  beds, a wet room featuring a low sink and toilet for wheelchair “Charley Bubbles, named for her users, a comfy living room with daughter, is the charitable arm of the an overhead project, which will help families access hoist, games and a bubble respite, and get the equipment they tube, a beautiful kitchen and dining need to ensure great quality of life.”

Image © DC Thompson

harley Bubbles” was a nickname Jacqui Lowe’s daughter acquired as a little baby in 1998. Charley had Edwards Syndrome – also called trisomy 18, a genetic disorder which left her vulnerable and struggling to breathe. When doctors told Jacqui that if she took Charley outside she would catch the common cold, which could kill her, Jacqui thought, I can’t have this for the rest of my daughter’s life. She designed an air purified buggy, a kind of bubble that Charley could go inside that would develop her lungs and keep her infection free. Roaming the high street of Glenrothes, Fife, she acquired the nickname Charley Bubbles, and it stuck.

Jacqui is powerfully determined and driven. Before her daughter passed away, she was adamant she would give her the best life possible.

After her passing, Jacqui found that determination left her. It wasn’t until January 2017 that, upon waking up one morning, she found herself filled with inspiration: it was then that Jacqui began laying down the groundwork to make Trusted Breaks and Charley Bubbles a reality.

Trusted Breaks is the name of what was Jacqui and her husband John’s house in Glenrothes, now a respite

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Section Image © DC Thompson

ones – on phonecalls, arguments and paperwork trying desperately to get life-saving equipment, like she did.

Motivated not only by her unwavering love for her daughter, Jacqui knows that Trusted Breaks can fill a huge gap that exists in the UK in the provision of respite to younger people.

“There was nowhere I could send Charley,” she said. “If I sent her to a respite, she’d go in with older people. You can’t put a vulnerable young adult in with people who are 65 or 80, with dementia or anything like that.

“Charley had very profound special needs, and I wouldn’t have dared to put her in there. This is going to be massive for the whole of the UK, not just for Glenrothes and Fife, it doesn’t matter where you’re from, if you want to access this beautiful place that’s going to be so beneficial to loved ones and families, it’s not just for the person who needs the care, it’s for the whole families.”

Thinking small is not something Jacqui does often. Trusted Breaks will be working with the community, not only providing respite for younger people – a service they hope to greatly expand – but also offer a befriending service for elderly people who may feel isolated or lonely, a housework, and a shopping service. This house will not be the only one: Jacqui has plans for seven centres, and an activity centre, which will not only fill the gap in respite provision services, but provide massive employment opportunities.

Trusted Breaks prioritise the employment of people who have experience in providing care to loved ones over all else. The manager they’ve chosen to employ, Jeanette, has 40 years of experience. Not only has she been a nurse and spent 30 years as a care manager, she acted as carer to both of her parents.

“Our model for Trusted Breaks is that the people who are going to work here will be people who have lived the life of being a carer,” said 68

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Donate

Donations to help support Trusted Breaks and Charley Bubbles can be made to: account number 00053124, sort code: 82-69-09. Follow them on twitter at @Trusted Breaks, and on their Facebook page, Trusted Breaks and Charley Bubbles.

Jacqui. “They’ve lived our life, not just been a carer. You have to have looked after your loved ones to work for us, because that’s where the compassion and understanding of how it really is comes from.”

Above all, Jacqui’s love for Charley shines through every aspect of the project and the charity. “If it’s the last thing I do in the last seven years and I fulfil that, then drop dead, I’ve completed my journey,” she said. “This is my calling. I’ve got to make it happen for people with disabilities. I feel that life is tough for all those families out there who have to struggle with fear, so every day needs to be magical for these

people, instead of all the fights they have.”

She wants to make the world as magical for all families like hers, just as her life was with Charley in it. Hearing her speak, describing her gentlehearted daughter who loved to sing and dance, who never needed for material things, and loved nothing more in the entire world than a piece of paper to play with, it is obvious that Trusted Breaks and Charley Bubbles were both born out of love.

“I just feel this is my calling,” Jacqui said. “This is what I have to do. Every single day of my life, I feel Charley say, “come on mum, this is what you’re meant to do.” That wee lassie fought 20 years of her life, and was so determined to fight for the love of me, every day. I can’t dare put myself in my bed and do nothing with what I’ve learned. If I do that, my daughter didn’t exist.

“I can’t cuddle my wee girl – there will be a day I will – but right now, the love that she gave me, I’ve just got to put it out into the world and change things, because Charley changed my world.

“It’s people’s right to have happiness.

And I believe where there’s happiness, there’s hope.” 

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Section

Robbie Robot

C

hildhood illness is a truly awful thing. Not only does it present difficulties within a child’s family life, but it acts as a serious disruption to their school life, preventing them from taking part in “normal” school activities, including socialising and joining in lessons.

As technology steps up to shrink the chasms between us in terms of distance, it allows us to take part in events which we could not otherwise do due to illness, distance, or lack of funds. Telepresence is a new aspect of technology which hopes to literally and metaphorically fill the gaps that children with disabilities or illness are subject to in their school life.

Jilly is 12, and lives in Atglen, Philadelphia. She has mitochondrial disease, an exhausting chronic illness, which means she struggles to regularly attend school. With her Double, that isn’t an issue for Jilly.

Her Double is one of more than 1000 telepresence robots that exist in schools across America, and help children who can’t attend school do just that. The Double is functionally an

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iPad on a Segway, which allows Jilly to see the classroom, and allows the classroom to see her via the cameras.

Apart from issues with spotty wi-fi, she rarely has a problem with it.

The Philadelphia Inquirer followed her Double into the classroom, and watched as Jilly planned a project with her friends Melanie and Katie about Egypt’s Old Kingdom, and the girls chat and laugh. Their teacher pops her head into their group to check on them, saying “you better not be talking about boys.” The interactions are completely natural, and no-one bats an eye at it.

Their teacher describes it as “like George Jetson,” but the children quickly adapted to the change.

Jade Gadd lives with Asperger’s syndrome and hypermobile EhlersDanlos syndrome, and her body can shut down without warning. In fact, she told the Telegraph last year that it took her a total of 11 hours to finish her GCSE English exam, which she completed at home with an invigilator. In the scheduled 45 minute breaks, she had stress-induced

Images © No Isolation / Estera Kluczenko

Robots are getting children with disabilities and chronic illnesses back into the classrooms to socialise and learn

Section

seizures and was stricken with amnesia, causing her to forget not only her exam, but who she was.

She struggled with her GCSEs, achieving a C in Foundation Maths, a 6 in English Literature and a 9 in English Language, in spite of the fact that she had spent a significant portion of the year unable to get out of bed, and has lead to her also developing anxiety and depression.

No Isolation are a Norwegian robotics firm, and the creators of AV1, an incredible little robot that’s small enough to fit in a school backpack. There are already 200 of No Isolation’s AVIs being used in classrooms across Scandinavia, and for Jade, it’s been a lifesaver.

Jade has named her AV1 Bee, after the character in Robbin Hobb’s novels. It looks more like a robotic toy, all cute and rounded, but Bee is Jade’s eyes, ears, voice and presence in her classroom. Like Jilly’s Double, Jade’s Bee sits in her classroom for her and allows her to actively take part in classes when she does not feel well enough to attend physically.

Jade can control Bee, moving its head 360 degrees to see the classroom, and interact with her classmates. If she wants to answer in class, she can alert the teacher through the light on Bee’s head.

Following suit from Jade, Makayla uses her AV1, Robbie to attend school when her ME causes her to be too tired to physically attend. Her mum has seen an incredible change in her and has credited Robbie with improving Makayla’s quality of life: “I’m more confident about Makayla’s education. When she is struggling she gets frustrated and upset because she feels as though she is behind. Being able to do more, but with her in control, is a massive boost for her. She’s not falling behind anymore!

“This is the first time in eight years that I’ve had hope with Makayla’s education. Hearing the lessons coming from her bedroom I could have cried. We don’t have a normal life, but Robbie has given her some normality.”

AV1 has also allowed 11-year-old Elliott from Somerset to get back into his education, which was put on the backburner when he developed brain cancer. Elliott’s treatment has affected the way he moves and how active he can be, which has also affected his schooling. Using AV1, Elliott has not only managed to get back into education, but continue socialising using his cute little robot.

Helen Cullen, the vice principal at Preston School, said: “Once people see AV1, you can’t argue it’s not valuable and it’s not having a valuable effect on children’s lives.

The number of medical conditions that keep children off school for a long period of time is huge.”

Chronic illnesses and disabilities might cause children to miss out on physically attending school, but telepresence robots show that it doesn’t necessarily mean they are trapped in a cycle of loneliness; a simple, cute little robotic companion can work wonders to opening the doors of knowledge to them.  -magazine.co.uk

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Emergency Equipment SERVICE

Immediate response to the urgent needs of children who don’t have time to wait

Call 0800 902 0095 for more information and apply online at newlifecharity.co.uk/apply Newlife the Charity for Disabled Children - Registered Charity Number: 1170125 in England & Wales.

Product Focus

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

Multiplane Stabilizer simplestuffworks.co.uk | 01827 307870 One of Simple Stuff Work’s most popular solutions, this stabilizer is designed to support the legs in a gentle way, allowing the individual using it to relax in a neutral position. The Multiplane Stabilizer will be on stand P28 at the OT Show.

More products on the next page

Under Water Light Show glow.co.uk | 0345 505 9090 Create a fun and calming sensory experience for children in the bath using the Under Water Lights Show. The little floatie produces a spectacular array of colours and shapes under water, adding to the bath time experience for children who may find the situation stressful. It features five settings, which it can cycle through at random.

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Hobbledehoo Child Harness hobbledehoo.com | 01522 875255 The Hobbledehoo harness features a secure grab handle which is extremely useful for children with mobility or balance issues, and can be quickly and easily helped to provide them with additional balance and security. The harness provides the wearer the independence to move around freely, while still ensuring their safety.

Rackety’s Polo Trainers disabled-clothing.co.uk | 0115 986 9000 Children may be hesitant to wear orthopaedic shoes, but Rackety’s Polo trainers are a stylish alternative to traditional orthopaedics. These sporty trainers are medically approved, and helpful for therapeutic treatment of postural defects, and are highly recommended for children with GMFCS 1 and 2 class cerebral palsy.

360 Electric Toothbrush saveoursealifenow.com With a soft, silicone head, this toothbrush is as fun as it is functional. One charge of the battery will last 400 brushes, with its food grade head rotating a full 360 degrees to ensure total and complete cleaning of a child’s mouth. The ballshaped handle makes the toothbrush extremely comfortable to hold.

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Piccolino precisionrehab.co.uk | 01256 300111 The Piccolino from Precision Rehab is an electric wheelchair designed to provide comfort, fun and enjoyment to both the child and the parent. Its unique design means it can grow with the child and it is built to meet their individual needs. Available in a range of colours. Check out the Piccolino on stand B42 at the OT Show.

Unicorn cast cover Search for Kuvrs on etsy.com For younger patients who are looking to style their cast and show it off as a cool accessory.

These cast covers are in a stretchy fabric, are washable and come in a range of designs that kids will love. They also make the cast cover smooth, protecting any damage to skin, clothing or furnishings.

Sensory Dome hawkin.com Ideal for therapeutic gardening with children in an indoor setting, this sensory dome is a large terrarium including over ten varieties of plant from around the world, making it a practical and useful educational tool. Children need only provide minimal care to the plants, which start to sprout in around five days,

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PR ANNO ODUCT UNCE MENT Be on e of the exper first to ie 2019 nce our home at the li OT Sh ft o w Stand M30! ,

Freedom in your home, with Wessex Lifts have been designing, innovating and manufacturing through-floor lifts alongside OT’s for nearly 4 decades in the UK. We have the widest range of home lift sizes available on the market, so it’s no wonder we’re the UK market leaders. No matter the situation, we’ll find a solution for you.

Contact us on 01794 830303 to enquire about our range or visit our website, www.wessexlifts.com

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Home Adaptation

Adapting for change Budget cuts to health services and financial strains across the UK can be felt by patients and professionals alike, and the occupational therapy profession is no different. Michele Finney, an OT of 30 years’ standing, discusses the shift she is seeing to a private-pay culture and the home adaptation trends that she is witnessing in these financially stretched times.

Points of pressure The authoritative voice of the Equality and Human Rights Commission resounded loudly earlier this year, when its report into the level of crisis in the housing of disabled people was released. The report found that disabled people were too often demoralised and frustrated by the housing system, that there was a significant shortage of accessible homes and that the provision of home adaptations, involved unacceptable bureaucracy and delay. In addition, disabled people were just not getting the support that they needed to live independently.

The fragility of the system is becoming ever more evident. Amongst other things, budget cuts have led

to the reduction of OTs and administrative teams and this has slowed the application process for Disabled Funding Grants (DFG) in many areas. This has also helped facilitate what Sue Adams, Chief Executive of Care and Repair England, calls the ‘postcode lottery’ when it comes to disabled people being able to get their homes adapted.

Planning and policy makers hold the key to making sure that housing stock meets the needs of the next generation. Bold decisions are needed. Even though some local authorities have a 10% wheelchair accessible standard target for new build developments embedded into their housing policies, for many, this target is only discretionary. Decisions on creating future-proof  -magazine.co.uk

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Home Adaptation housing stock shouldn’t be dependent on individual authorities having better insight on what should be done and what is better to do, wheelchair and lifetime homes standard housing should be compulsory country-wide. Forward thinking on accessibility will reap longer-term savings, as it is far more cost-effective to build accessible homes than it is to retrofit it later on.

It only takes a brief look at the cost-savings that can be achieved by reducing falls at home, to also see that it makes long-term financial sense to have proper strategies in place to deal with adaptations in existing and future homes. The growing importance of local authorities, housing associations and other agencies is highlighted by The Kings Fund, an independent charity working to improve health and care in England. On the discussion of integrated care the charity says: “The NHS also needs to give greater priority to the prevention of ill health by working with local authorities and other agencies to tackle the wider determinants of health and wellbeing.”

Speeding up the DFG process A growing frustration with the slow pace of DFG approvals has led many more people to seek independent OT and private-pay solutions. Many local authorities have also begun to work with independent OTs to allow their assessment reports to be included as part of the DFG approval process. However, getting the balance right is vital. As well as using independent OTs – who follow specified assessment guidelines – the pace of DFG adaptations in some local authority areas has been quickened by adopting a more holistic approach: fast tracking more straight-forward adaptations, involving disabled people in the decision-making process, contracting quality builders and supervising the work to ensure high standards.

Changing adaptation equipment trends More and more local authorities and housing associations are looking to refurbish and renew ageing adaptations and equipment whilst they still have available budgets. This short-term investment is off-set by the long-term savings in maintenance costs for sizeable pieces of kit such as stairlifts. In addition, stretched care services and an increase in people living at home with dementia for longer, is meaning that increasing numbers 78

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SPEND: It’s more cost-effective to build accessible homes now

of families are also looking for suitable adaptations to promote home safety and sustained independence particularly when carer support or care services are required.

Manufacturers are responding well to these changing times. As well as offering a wide range of cost-effective home adaptation solutions, many companies offer detailed advice to OTs specifying particular pieces of equipment. According to Stuart Reynolds, Head of Product and Marketing at AKW - one of the UK’s leading providers of accessibility solutions – the technical support team is noticing an increasing demand from OTs, local authorities and housing associations for their technical support, services, level access showering solutions and accessible kitchens.

Stuart at AKW also comments: “The growth of privatepay has led to an increase in concern from customers with regards to cost, maintenance issues and warranties.

Also, many people are putting off getting homeadaptations as they don’t want to ‘medicalise’ their homes. This has led to opportunities for us to promote our long warranty products and offer an even wider range of design-led solutions”.

Continuing to take a whole-person approach to both mental and physical health and wellbeing in a fragmenting system is challenging and creative solutions are required to take the ‘crisis’ out of housing disabled people. However, as OTs, the drive to ensure client-centred care that enhances participation and performance in daily living remains strong and creative working partnerships with authorities and manufacturers, can deliver client-centred solutions that change lives. For more information on the range from AKW visit akw-ltd.com

Advertising Feature

Risk Management in Independent Practice

I

f you are considering any form of independent or private work – Occupational Therapy, Case Management or even Expert Witness, you will need to consider your own insurance cover. It can be confusing as to what you need, but good quality cover may mean the difference between losing your livelihood or not in a claim situation.

WHAT TO CONSIDER Cover should include Public Liability, Medical Malpractice, Breach of Confidentiality, Financial Loss, Criminal and Tax defence, Loss of Reputation and Products Liability, use of clients own equipment, i.e. hoists etc.

the first few sessions with a Also consider the levels of cover, new client, and often result and if these are adequate for from misunderstandings, each area stated. If you don’t miscommunication and have an adequate wording, you inadequate advice could find yourself “It can be given at the outset, held financially liable if it were confusing as to failing to manage a proven that it was what you need, client’s expectations inappropriate your advice or but good quality or behaviour. Remember treatment, or the cover may mean to keep your products used that the difference boundaries, show were responsible between losing your good listening and for the clients’ communication skills, livelihood or not” alleged situation. and to keep good Choosing a Broker with a good track record in giving records (for at least 7 years – and complying with Data Protection) expert and sympathetic claims of what you have told the client. support is also vital.

Your records are your first line of defence if a claim is made COMPLAINTS against you.

Many complaints arise within

About Balens Balens is one of the largest Specialist Insurance Brokers for Health Professionals in the UK and has been providing cover for Occupational Therapists since the 1990s. www.balens.co.uk

WHAT TO DO IF A COMPLAINT OR CLAIM IS MADE AGAINST YOU Don’t panic, this is what your insurance is for. Contact your Broker; they should be able to give advice on how best to deal with the situation. Never admit liability or promise to pay, this prejudices your insurers position, and may mean that your insurance becomes nullified. There are ways of dealing with this. If in doubt, ask. We all make mistakes, it is part of being human, but with good quality support you can be reassured that you will not be paying the price of that mistake yourself: you can then reflect, learn and move on.

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Telephone: 01684 580 771 Web: www.balens.co.uk Email: OT@balens.co.uk Balens Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

-magazine.co.uk

79

Industry Event

All go at The OT Show Delivered by occupational therapists, for occupational therapists

T

he countdown is on to the UK’s most exciting and most talked about event for occupational therapists – The Occupational Therapy Show! Full to bursting with motivational lectures and demonstrations presented by speakers at the very forefront of the OT world, thousands of occupational therapy professionals are set to journey to the NEC, Birmingham on 21 and 22 November. Not only is it completely free of charge to attend, but you may be surprised to learn that the education programme is also put together by occupational therapists. Here’s what Adam Ferry, OT and education programme manager, has to say about what he sets out to achieve when programming the educational content: “Each year when I start formulating ideas for The Occupational Therapy Show education programme, I consider what occupational therapists (myself included) want to take away from their experience. Are delegates wanting certificates to demonstrate that they have simply attended; sessions that reinforce that what they are doing clinically is ‘right’; or dynamic new ideas for them to reflect on and implement within their own services?

“I always hope the latter but also accept that depending on which sector the OT is working in their motivations and professional needs may greatly differ. My experiences within statutory services suggest that CPD becomes about meeting professional standards to support registration but in the independent sector is much more about increasing knowledge base and expertise to aid high quality intervention.

FREE PASSES Register for your free passes: theotshow.com/ OTMag 80

That experience will certainly not be the same for everyone and indeed if it were, strong specialist sections or media such as #OTalk would not exist. So all in all, I seek to produce an education programme which contains something that every single OT can take and learn from.”

up comprises of Shelagh Morris, Ida Kahlin, Anand Pandyan, Sue Baptiste, Inga Warren, Graeme Smith, Michael Mandelstram, Keir Harding and many more.

Each considered leaders in their respective fields, you are sure to gain some invaluable pearls of wisdom while developing your skills and gaining fresh new ideas.

What’s more, the major exhibition, which is home to 270+ OT centred suppliers, will enable you to source great deals on all the latest products and services you need to enhance your daily practice and grow your business.

Leading suppliers from across the industry will be in attendance including, Handicare, Invacare, AKW, Sunrise, Etac R82 and many, many more.

Based on this, the education content focuses on a wide variety of areas including governance, mental health, paediatrics, physical, housing, moving and handling and neurological practice.

After another great show in 2017, providing lots of training sessions alongside the National Wheelchair Managers’ Forum in our very popular Posture and Wheelchair Essentials Theatre, this year Posture and Mobility Group (PMG) are moving to one of the main stages. Speakers will be taking to the stage on both days of the show to provide in-depth knowledge about common posture and mobility challenges.

As you will have come to expect from the show, this year we are excited to present yet more globally renowned speakers for you to listen to and learn from. The outstanding speaker line-

Network and have fun While discovering new innovations, gaining accredited hours of CPD and learning from some of the very best in the business, you’ll also have the perfect opportunity to network with like-minded professionals who share your passion for excellence. And what better way to do this than over a few drinks on the house, courtesy of The Occupational Therapy Show. Taking place in the Networking Lounge on Wednesday 21 November at 5.30pm.

More than 4,800 professionals are expected to attend the event – which will be co-located with Therapy Expo offering the perfect opportunity to network with friends and colleagues from all corners of the industry. So, if you haven’t registered for your free pass yet, make sure you do now! 

Wednesday 21 & Thursday 22

NEC Birmingham

More details online:

November

Halls 9&10

theotshow.com

-magazine.co.uk

Industry Event

Each year when I start formulating ideas for The Occupational Therapy Show education programme, I consider what occupational therapists (myself included) want to take away from their experience” Education programme manager, Adam Ferry

4,800

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Networking with 4,800+ of your occupational therapy colleagues – don’t miss out, join your peers.

OT centred suppliers to source new products and find the latest innovations for your clients – 32 new to the show!

Having access to 100+ accredited CPD education sessions with topics across all OT areas

Learning from 89+ world renowned speakers, 70+ are new and have never spoken at the show before

-magazine.co.uk

81

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Case Study

CP CHARITY

launched A 42-year-old Londoner is launching her own cerebral palsy (CP) charity for adults who she feels have been abandoned by the authorities as soon as they hit 18 years of age.

E

mma Livingstone was diagnosed with CP when she was two-years-old after her parents became concerned that there was a delay in her learning to walk. She underwent intensive physiotherapy up until adulthood, learned to walk and talk like other children and has, for all intents and purposes, led a normal life other than having to install a Stiltz homelift to help her move between floors.

Emma trained to become a speech and language therapist and has been married to husband Derek for 11 years. They live in Barnet and have three children, Natan, 10, Libby, 8 and Callum, 4.

But Emma is concerned there is no support network nor is there access to medical services for adults with cerebral palsy.

This concern has led her to setting up the Adult Cerebral Palsy Hub as a registered charity alongside her physiotherapist Miriam Creeger, in order to raise awareness of adults that have the condition. A further aim of the charity is to support research and lobby for much-needed services.

Emma said: “Around 110,000 people are born with cerebral palsy in this country and it is one of the largest disability groups in the UK but there is no service provision for sufferers once they become adults.

“After my experiences of the last few years with my hip operations, it became very clear to me that there are no bespoke services for adults with

CP and this needs to to a bungalow but change. with three children this proved hard. In “Most CP charities out the end, the couple there are for children decided to extend but my concern is their property and about when that ‘transform’ Emma’s person reaches 18 life by buying a Stiltz years of age – I think Homelift, which it is fair to say that enables her to move they are effectively from floor to floor abandoned by the simply and easily at authorities. the touch of a button.

“This has led Miriam The Stiltz Homelift is and I to found Adult the only freestanding Cerebral Palsy Hub domestic lift on the which we hope, initially, market and Emma’s will act as a community wheelchair-accessible for adults with CP and Trio model is installed give them a voice.” in a space off the ACCESS: Stilts Homelift moves Emma learned to live kitchen where it through floors easily with CP from a young plugs straight into age and, although a domestic power it is not considered a degenerative socket with it travelling up ‘through condition by doctors, three years ago the floor’ on discreet self-supporting her ability to walk became extremely rails to a first-floor landing area. The lift difficult. The stairs became a huge is powered by a quiet self-contained challenge for her and she found it motor with no noise vibration, unlke difficult to even lift her leg up and over other lifts which need to be bolted a pavement curb. She was eventually into a supporting wall. diagnosed with hip dysplasia.

Emma, who is still on crutches, said: We decided to extend the house After undergoing hip reconstruction for more space and install the Stiltz on her right hip, she returned home which has transformed my life. It is not and spent the majority of 2016 invasive, it looks modern and provides recovering in a makeshift bedroom in me with easy access to the whole the kitchen. Then unfortunately, her house. It is also great for transporting left hip started to suffer from a similar the washing and kids’ toys!” problem, resulting in her having a hip replacement in April of this year.

Stiltz will be showcasing their home lifts at The OT Show on stand H20.

Before the operation, Emma and her husband considered downsizing stiltz.co.uk

-magazine.co.uk

83

Crelling Harnesses Ltd.

Tel: 01253 852298 Email: info@crelling.com www.crelling.com Crelling Harnesses manufacture a full range of special needs harnesses suitable for use on all kinds of equipment including wheelchairs, buggies, scooters, shower chairs, bathing equipment, stair lifts and seats in cars, buses and aircraft etc.

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

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Products designed and developed to aid basic postural management.

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

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

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

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Art Heading Therapy here ART T H ERAPY

A blank canvas n occupational therapist’s toolkit isn’t just composed of OT interventions. Like many other therapists, they can take inspiration and heed from other therapies to adapt and create new interventions for their clients.

A

In some areas of OT, implementing elements from art therapy can prove to build a fuller and stronger package of care, offering a creative outlet, a requirement of discipline and patience and a platform to express themselves and practice mindfulness and address their mental health.

Art therapy opens up a host of creative and inspiring avenues, from using traditional art forms that allow tactile and sensory experiences, to abstract ideas that opens up thinking, but there are many exciting and unexpected routes your foray into art therapy could take you.

 Chinese Calligraphy Calligraphy of any kind can be a meditative and sensory experience. A 2018 study by Kuan-Yu Chu, Chih-Yang Huang, and Wen-Chen Ouyang states: “Chinese calligraphy therapy (CCT) is a branch of art therapy that involves visual–spatial patterning of characters. This type of calligraphy is more than an art therapy; in essence, it involves culture, health, behaviour treatment and rehabilitation. The art nature is only one of its varied roles and functions.

It necessitates exercising motor control of the brush to follow specific character configurations based on a projection of the cognitive images of the characters.” It shows Chinese calligraphy in particular can reduce neuropsychiatric symptoms and CCT may have a curative effect. While the study currently claims there is insufficient evidence, the art of Chinese calligraphy is certainly a growing element in therapies across the world.

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85

Art Therapy  Street Art Street art by nature opens up your intervention to moving outside and out of constraints of four walls.

If your client isn’t interested in creating art, street art is a great way to employ the method – enjoying community art can give a sense of belonging and commonality if your client feels disengaged from society. Muralism is another great form of street art for therapy. Often well thought out and meaningful pieces, creating murals can allow clients to envision their thoughts or mental health as a visual being that can be made into something beautiful or easier to deal with. Transforming worrying or dangerous thoughts into something tangible allows a client to use the artistic process to face them straight on and understand their roots and effects they have and its therapeutic ability cannot be understated.

Stained Glass  Adult colouring books are all the rage and a huge technique in mindfulness therapy. While colouring books are available in a number of themes and styles, stained glass books may be an untapped genre for your client. Stained glass isn’t exclusive to churches despite it dating back over a millennium, but traditional pieces for worship’s intrinsic and storytelling nature may allow a client to get lost in the history of the artwork as well as the discipline involved in colouring. If your client isn’t particularly impressed by stained glass icon work, looking at the glasswork of Charles Rennie Mackintosh offers a more contemporary outlet, with the Art Nouveau architect’s iconic pieces offering a less complex yet stunning template for colouring.

 Digital Art Digital art is another growing form of art therapy.

With the digital age booming more than ever, and more new and accessible technology and software being released every week, opportunities for art therapy also become easier to come by. With dangers of too much screen time or unhealthy online behaviours circulating, using this technology for helpful and meaningful activities is a great way to implement art therapy with young clients in particular. In turn, the amount of resources available for digital art transcends from ready to go programmes and apps, but also into screeds of studies and information to support practice. Digital art can promote a healthy and productive use of technology and the internet, while also using the creativity of art to develop computer and digital skills.

Are you an OT with a particular interest in art therapy and its benefits? Email colette@2apublishing.co.uk.

86

-magazine.co.uk

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WA LKERS

Visit Topro on stand P35 at The OT Show

Is a walker just for walking?

Heading here

Adam Ferry of The OT Service takes a look at the multiple uses of the walkers on the market.

Words by Adam Ferry, The OT Service

N

o subject highlights both the overlap and differences between occupational therapy and physiotherapy more perfectly.

Where physiotherapy looks to restore movement in someone affected by illness or disability, occupational therapy focuses on function/ activity with the same group with the aim of maximising engagement and independence.

recommend and provide the appropriate walking aid.

However, that same group are unlikely to be ambulant without purpose. The OT will consider the purpose of the mobility and these activities then become the focus of the occupational therapist’s intervention.

Two very different focuses, however, the overlap comes when the person using the walking aid needs some form of For someone with the ability to be ambulant though weight compensatory measure to bearing the physiotherapist support will consider aspects such independent as base of support, static/ completion dynamic balance, ability to of their task. risk assess and conditioning in ensuring that they A regular

1

2

This is what most would consider to be a standard four wheeled walker with integrated seat and shopping bag. What is interesting about this product however is that it includes a tray and nonslip tray mat as optional accessories. These accessories support the notion that although the primary purpose is mobility, the supporting of independent functioning has also been integral to design.

This product is very similar in design to the Troja 2G premium but comes with an integrated reverse braking system to ensure brakes are automatically activated, as well as the option of a green laser light that helps with Parkinsonian freezing episodes. More importantly for this discussion it has the same option for a tray with anti-slip tray mat.

Troja 2G premium

Troja Neuro

WALKERS: Walkers often bring OT and physiotherapy together.

conversation I hear between my occupational therapy staff and their physiotherapy colleagues is “should we be recommending that the patient or client use a trolley as a walking aid?”

This discussion revolves around the main purpose of the device. It is not designed specifically as a walking aid, the trolley has a functional purpose but also provides

3

Olympos

Marketed as a ‘tough and practical rollator for an active life’. It is clearly designed for someone wishing to engage in activity away from the ‘standard’ social environments. Optional extras suggest it has been designed for those wishing to pursue leisure activities that may otherwise be inaccessible. Once more this highlights the link between mobility and activity engagement.

a wider base of support for someone with balance issues whilst negating the risks of spilling hot products and reducing falls risks.

The above example, although an accurate reflection of clinical discussion, could be argued as irrelevant to the question in hand as its primary purpose is functional. To answer the title question the discussion therefore must change direction and consider products whose primary purpose is to support mobility.

To do this we will consider four TOPRO products - Troja 2G Premium, Troja Neuro, Topro Olympos and the Rollz Motion.’

4

Rollz Motion

The Rollz Motion is a unique product that simultaneously provides support for the user who is able to weight bear to mobilise but where distance is limited.

Switching from a rollator to wheelchair in the flick of a wrist this product allows an individual to maximise their potential whilst allowing them to actively engage in meaningful activity with support when their exercise tolerance no longer allows them to walk.

-magazine.co.uk

89

Student Profile

STU DE N T P ROFILE

“My experience of working across two practice areas”

Esther Dark Esther Dark is an occupational therapy student at the University of Derby. She shares her experience of her placements in both NHS and charity settings.

Words by Esther Dark

and enthusiastic nature that I observed from both of my educators, who proved it is possible to realise and utilise a truly OT perspective in both settings. During this dual placement, I was inspired to consider the limitless possibilities and settings in which OTs can thrive. It has offered me the opportunity to compare different ways of working, expanding my therapeutic modes and helping me to gain insight into possible future areas of practice.

F

or my second placement as a MSc student at the University of Derby, I had the unique opportunity of sharing my placement between an NHS community mental health service, and a non-traditional practice placement, charity Age Concern Carlton & District.

When I first discovered I was going to be dividing my placement between two practice areas, I wondered how I would cope with managing two commutes, two educators to impress, two sets of caseloads and places and names I would undoubtedly forget. Admittedly, I had some preconceived judgements and anxieties regarding both areas; concerns regarding the stringency of the NHS and pressure for generic working, and the lack of structure in a charity setting.

However, I was quickly proven wrong.

Although differing contexts, both make obvious tangible differences in the lives of the elderly individuals they serve, reducing loneliness and improving quality of life. Such changes were demonstrated by the resilient 90

-magazine.co.uk

“Although differing contexts, both make obvious tangible differences in the lives of the elderly individuals they serve...”

For the majority, I was in a Nottinghambased intensive recovery intervention service in the community, which offers a 12-week intermediate service for individuals 65 plus who experience either a functional or organic mental health condition. The team operates a 7-day service between 7am to 10pm, with a client-centred approach, offering a range of visits and being flexible and culturally responsive to the needs of their clients. There has been an ongoing debate regarding the acknowledgement and inappropriate use of OTs in generic multidisciplinary teams, who usually only form a small proportion of staffing and have been

Student Profile subsequently argued to risk losing their professional identity. However, Amy Smith, an experienced OT revealed it’s possible to use her specialist knowledge for the benefit of the team in adapting homes, assessing for equipment and providing meaningful opportunities to enhance the occupational participation and performance of the clients she works with, whilst also retaining her unique focus on occupation. Amy frames every area of her practice in evidence and research, using OT to guide and justify her interventions.

As one of only two OTs who form the team, Amy’s contribution offers a unique perspective, which is acknowledged and called upon by other health practitioners.

Amy’s role varies and is completely determined by what the client can, wants, and wishes to achieve.

ESTHER: Esther used the experience to become a more rounded OT

On the other hand, operated almost working patterns, and the job satisfaction “I am so grateful I that pioneering practice brings. As a entirely by an army of volunteers and had the opportunity fresh graduate, Suzy had to manage the a staff team of only five, Age Concern Carlton & District exists to benefit elderly to work in a non- delicate balance of not undermining the people in the surrounding region. Changes traditional practice brilliant work of a well-established charity across health and social care, with a shift yet simultaneously strive forward with her area as it allowed dream of placing occupation at the heart towards a community health model which me to experience present exciting opportunities for OTs of the service. She demonstrated resilience to expand their presence into innovative professional life and determination to focus on clientand unconventional settings. Suzy outside the constraints centred practice and create a pioneering Roseblade, my educator, proposed the of clinical settings.” and inclusive practice. notion of an OT role within Age Concern Suzy created Age Friendly Carlton as a while completing her degree at Sheffield concept based on the tenets of social justice. Using Hallam. This innovative idea arose from the requirement this, Suzy works alongside community organisations of Suzy’s course during her third year to undertake a and businesses to build an equitable and fair society role-emerging placement, with Suzy and two other accessible and welcoming to all elderly individuals. students placed at Age Concern. While initially daunted She is often found in the local community, assessing by the task of developing an OT practice in a charity, the accessibility of local shops and amenities, offering they were struck by the lack of occupation-focused dementia training, and signing up businesses to pledge activities on offer and created a therapeutic programme to be Age Friendly. I am so grateful I had the opportunity of meaningful activities, incorporating reminiscence to work in a non-traditional practice area as it allowed strategies, one-to-one assessments and tailored support. me to experience professional life outside the constraints The evidence base of the benefits of role emerging placements is growing, showing such placements are strong catalysts for autonomous learning and a place for trainee practitioners to develop self-insight. Suzy found her vision to reduce social isolation for older adults and change societies attitudes, viewing clients as unique occupational beings and operate in a client-centred approach.

Often frustrated by the rigidity of traditional healthcare settings, the pressure on discharges and budget cuts, and the incongruity it can sometimes present against the core values of OT, I discovered many benefits to working in a role-emerging placement, including the flexibility of

of clinical settings.

Suzy and Amy welcomed my ideas and allowed me to run with my creativity in both settings. I appreciated that both of my educators allowed me to work autonomously, gaining greater confidence in my skills and knowledge. They have been complementing and contrasting educators, inspiring and challenging me to think creatively and outside of the box. It has been both an exciting and exhausting 10-weeks but working alongside the clients I have worked with was an extremely satisfying and rewarding experience, inspiring limitless possibilities of where I can go in my career.  -magazine.co.uk

91

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The difficulties associated with discharging patients from hospital due to a lack of a suitable environment at home continues to challenge many health care professionals.

So too are the problems faced by many service users who reside in privately rented accommodation where the landlord will not allow a permanent wet floor adaptation.

Others in need may require a temporary showering arrangement while they recover from an operation and there is the family dynamic where a desire exists to retain a bath as well as seek a showering adaptation to suit one person.

Autumn UK’s shower and shower toilet cubicle is proving more and more popular given it can be assembled in hours and fully operational within 2 days on average. It is able to fit into any room where cold water, waste and power supply has been made available.

As a solution that can be relocated and recycled, it provides great flexibility to end-users and enables local authorities and housing associations to best reflect their varied tenants’ needs. Private landlords also embrace the cubicle given a property can easily be made good once the cubicle has been re-sited in another property unlike a permanent wet floor adaptation.

Autumn UK has launched a national CPD programme covering the features of the TRU Cubicle. If you would like Autumn UK to present to your team, or just wish to find out more about it we would love to hear from you.

Call: 0161 331 3000 or email jill.lockett@autumnuk.co.uk or visit autumnuk.co.uk

Yourevents

EVERY ISSUE we bring you the latest events taking place in the OT calendar.

If you have, or know of, an event please email it into enquiries@2apublishing.co.uk

28 NOVEMBER & 5 DECEMBER

21 MARCH

OTAC

Kidz to Adultz Middle

Newcastle: Gateshead Hotel (28 November) Southampton: Hilton Hotel Ageas Bowl (5 December) OTAC is the UK’s only free occupational therapy and adaptations event. Led by Promoting Independence, the conference focuses on bringing suppliers and OTs together in one place. otac.org.uk/events

Ricoh Arena, Coventry Free exhibition dedicated to children and young adults with disabilities and additional needs, their families, carers and all the professionals who support them. 100+ exhibitors and ten free CPD seminars. kidzexhibitions.co.uk/kidz-middle 26-27 MARCH

6 DECEMBER

Adapting for Children with Challenging Behaviour (Introduction) Hamilton House (National Union of Teachers), London

21-22 NOVEMBER

The OT Show NEC, Birmingham Join the UK’s largest, free-to-attend, dedicated event with a total of 80 hours of professional development and access over 100 OT focused and interactive lectures, seminars and practical workshops. theotshow.com

This Viva Access event will look at a number of issues including, recent research into the housing circumstances of children with challenging behaviours (and their families) and legislative and policy context within which adaptations are provided. viva-access.arlo.co 15-17 MARCH

BAPO 2019 Harrogate International Centre The annual conference is back with an array of national and international speakers in the clinical programme and a dynamic exhibition, offering delegates the opportunity to hear and see the latest in research and innovation. bapo.com

Naidex 2019 NEC, Birmingham Naidex is Europe’s most exciting event dedicated to the disability, independent living and healthcare professional sectors. The free event brings together people with disabilities, healthcare professionals and industry standard manufacturers and suppliers. naidex.co.uk 26-27 MARCH

The Dementia Care and Nursing Home Expo NEC, Birmingham The free Dementia Care and Nursing Home Expo is the only dedicated trade show for care home owners. CPD seminars, led by exclusively selected speakers, will provide unparalleled advice on how to obtain an outstanding rating from CQC, whilst keeping person-centred care at the heart of the service. carehomeexpo.co.uk

OT-magazine.co.uk

93

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ü Provides templates, logs, certificate upload, CPD library, etc üEasily prepare for HCPC audit in 2019, appraisals and interviews I really like the Activities & Evidence Summary which helps me to keep an up-to-date checklist of all my CPD activities and the evidence to support it.

The action column on this summary reminds me of gaps in my evidence and the whole thing is my first piece of evidence required for HCPC audit” Sue - Senior OT

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At Enabled Living we put our customers at the heart of everything we do.

We are a public sector owned company providing Community Equipment, Sensory Services and Wheelchair & Specialist Seating Services to residents of Newham.

We are growing our Wheelchair & Specialist Seating team and are looking for 2 talented and experienced HCPC registered Therapists to join our established team.

A great opportunity • to work in a thriving, vibrant and diverse east London Borough • encourages innovation and collaboration • to be involved in shaping and developing a dynamic service • Salary: up to £48,000 pa (depending on experience) • - Excellent Pension Scheme - Competitive Annual Leave entitlement - Payment of RCOT membership & For an application pack or further information, please contact Fiona on T: 0203 373 2222 @enabled_living_

www.enabledlivinghealthcare.co.uk

Training & Recruitment

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

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

Join our expanding team of experienced Occupational Therapists

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

Request an information pack at admin@somek.com

Occupational Therapists have what it takes!

Do you…

• Work in a Community, Social Service or Independent setting or as a Case Manager?

• Recommend or review care packages?

• Have 6 or more years postgraduate experience?

Then you could be a Jacqueline Webb Care Expert!

What does a Jacqueline Webb Care Expert do?

A Care Expert completes a functional assessment following a clinical negligence or personal injury claim and then produces a cost report covering the lifelong needs of a claimant.This report includes care, equipment and housing and will help the court decide on the amount of compensation to be paid to the claimant.

Why would you want to be a Jacqueline Webb Care Expert?

• Part time work that sits alongside your current clinical role • Initial 1-2-1 mentoring and comprehensive training • Continuous ongoing development and networking opportunities • Flexibility as the majority of the work is done at home • Freedom to recommend what is truly required for an individual • Be financially rewarded for your expertise

Visit www.jwebb.co.uk/apply to register to speak to our recruitment team

A great career with ILS! ILS is one of the UK’s leading case management and rehabilitation companies, with 25 years’ experience in the industry.

We offer high quality case management to children and adults with catastrophic brain or spinal injury, and we pride ourselves on our client centred approach.

We are looking to expand our case management team across the UK and are particularly

“It’s challenging but rewarding work and I absolutely love my job!”

interested in hearing from OT’s with experience of working with children Eliot Lamb, or existing Case Managers looking for a Case Manager new challenge. and Neurological Occupational Therapist Roles are home based with travel and with ILS since 2006 client visits within your geographical area.

Our case managers have access to a fantastic mentoring programme, excellent in-service training opportunities and company conferences.

Our key requirements are: OT’s with extensive experience of working with clients in who have sustained catastrophic injuries.

Professional abilities within the field of complex, long-term health care assessment, care planning and positive client outcomes.

Current professional registration and an up to date CPD portfolio.

Interested in joining us?

For an informal chat please contact Emma Ferguson or Lindsey Jojic on 01722 742442 or visit the careers section of our website for further information www.indliv.co.uk

T: 01722 742 442 • www.indliv.co.uk

Does Your Manual Handling Training Provider Tick All The Boxes?

✔ Healthcare Professionals All EDGE Services Trainers are nurses, occupational therapists or physiotherapists with at least ten years clinical experience and at least ten years training experience in this field.

✔ Fully Accredited All our People and Children Handling Key Trainer’s Courses are accredited to Level 4 or above, with clinical endorsement and recognised for providing continuing professional development.

✔ On-Line Resources Library Our training is supported by a extensive and informative on-line resources library.

✔ Professional Course Materials Comprehensive and professionally produced fully-illustrated 234-page text book.

✔ Invaluable Training Resources Proposed course agendas, hand-outs, Power-Point slides, filmed practical techniques and tips for staff training and assessing.

Successful completion of the EDGE People or Children Handling and Risk Assessment Key Trainer’s Certificate courses will provide delegates with the up-to-date skills, knowledge and confidence to train others in safer People or Children Handling.

✔ E-Learning Module Our training is supported by a dynamic and user-friendly e-learning module designed for front-line staff’s use.

EDGE services 01904 677853 enquiries@edgeservices.co.uk

Level 4 Award

edgeservices.co.uk

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