Occupational Therapists who support Walsall residents of all ages and help them avoid being admitted to hospital will take centre stage this week as part of an annual celebration of the profession.

This year’s Occupational Therapy Week, which runs from 5-11 November, takes the theme of securing the future of Occupational Therapy, one of the pledges as part of the Key Strategic Intentions by the Royal College of Occupational Therapy (RCOT) for the next five years.

Throughout this week we’ll be showcasing Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust’s Occupational therapists who work in five community areas:

Intermediate care

Community neuro team

Stroke team

Palliative care

Wheelchair service

Occupational Therapists work with a wide range of staff across health and social care supporting social workers, hospital discharges, community rehabilitation and bed-based rehabilitation.

Louise Mobley, Community Therapy Lead for Intermediate Care said: “The role is very much centred around the patient and the support they need to lead the life they choose while remaining safe and well.

“Therapists receive referrals from GPs, community nurses, social workers, Walsall Healthcare’s Frail Elderly Service and Rapid Response team, and work with people of all ages who are returning home and recovering after illness or hospital admission. We are focused on helping patients regain their confidence and re-learn the skills they had prior to illness where possible. While they may have some limitations it’s so important to support them to get the most out of life and maintain their independence.”

Therapists also provide advice about health promotion and  give preventative advice to reduce further risk of deterioration or crisis. The involvement of Occupational Therapists reduces GP visits by up to 72% reducing the Pressure in hospitals according to the RCOT.

Louise added: “Our patients have a range of acute and chronic health problems and that’s why partnership working is often key to getting the best outcomes for them. By working with physiotherapists, nurses and social workers and meeting weekly to discuss therapy goals and discharge planning we can collectively help them achieve their goals.

“This approach also helps us work with patients before they hit crisis and try to prevent hospital admissions. Occupational Therapy Week gives us an opportunity to share the work we do and demonstrate how we make a difference to people’s lives every day. It is such a rewarding role.”