After qualifying I gained a position in the community in the reablement team supporting individuals on a short. term basis on discharge from hospital gaining experience in rehabilitation, developing moving and handling skills and community equipment provision. I loved working with people in the setting supporting them to regain skills and independence on discharge from hospital to reduce future care needs. 

 

Then progressed to the community occupational therapy team further developing moving and handling skills, including supporting single handed or proportionate care. In this setting I also developed skills training both staff in equipment provision and carers in moving and handling. I also gained extensive experience in both minor and major adaptations including: 

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• Access to a property- temporary and permanent ramps, half steps, rails provision, step lifts; 

•  Access within a property- from banister rails, stairlifts to through floor lifts; 

• Bathing/ toileting- level access shower, wash/ dry toilet and accessible bathroom design; 

• Kitchen adaptations- from adding pull out units to current units to full kitchen redesign; 

• Ceiling track hoists; 

• Extensions to accommodate needs. 

 

In addition to complex adaptations, I have also developed skills and an interest in equipment provision delivering local training on equipment provision and becoming one of the clinical advisors to the equipment service in my local area. 

 

I balance my work time between my roles in the community NHS team as a Senior Occupational Therapist and Clinical Advisor to the Equipment Service as well as my private practice.