Occupational therapy

Occupational therapists help people who find everyday tasks difficult because of illness, injury, disability, or getting older. They work with people of all ages and backgrounds to help them stay safe and independent with completing the tasks that are most important to them.

What occupational therapists can help with

An occupational therapist can help you to complete daily tasks safely, independently and confidently, such as:

getting in and out of your home and getting out into the community
moving around the home
getting in and out of chairs, your bed or bath
getting washed and dressed
doing kitchen tasks like washing up or making food
eating a meal
engaging with your hobbies
socialising with friends and family

If you get help from an occupational therapist, they will first complete an assessment. They will work with you to find out what matters to you. You will also discuss what strengths you already have and what you find more challenging. They will then work with you to create a plan that helps you to complete the tasks that matter to you. This might mean doing things in a slightly different way.

What support is available

You could get:

signposting to small aids such as long handed items or kitchen aids
advice on easier and safer ways to do things
minor changes to your home, such as grab rails or small ramps
small equipment such as toilet raisers and bed levers
larger equipment items such as shower chairs, riser chairs or hoists
referral to a physiotherapist, sensory needs, housing team, GP or reablement service
falls prevention advice and interventions

If you would like to get small equipment, aids or advice quickly then you can:

find equipment providers on our West Berkshire Directory
visit your local disability shop

Larger items will need to be prescribed by an occupational therapist. After an assessment, the occupational therapist will order larger items for you. These items can be loaned to you for when you need it, then collected again when not in use. This service is free but there may be a wait. If your needs are urgent, you'll be seen sooner. Alternatively, you could pay to have a visit from an private occupational therapist.

What we can't help with

We don't provide:

wheelchairs - you will need a referral to the NHS wheelchair service for this if you are eligible or you can hire a wheelchair from the British Red Cross
walking aids and strength exercises - you will need a referral from the GP to a physiotherapist for this
mobility scooters and mobility cars - you'll need to buy and look after these yourself, although you may be eligible to use your benefits to support with this via the Motability Scheme
emergency help after a fall - speak to your GP, or call 111 or 999
emergency intervention due to ill health - speak to your GP about accessing urgent help and support
pressure relief equipment or skin tissue support - this will need to be provided by a nurse via the GP

Big changes to your home

If you need big changes in your home, like a stair lift or walk-in shower, you might be able to get a Disabled Facilities Grant. If you are eligible, the grant can help pay for the changes.

You can check whether you are eligible for a Disabled Facilities Grant on the Foundations website. If you are not eligible, see our paying for your care pages.

If you apply and are successful, you may need an occupational therapist to assess your needs and make sure the specification suits you.