Occupational Therapists (OTs) support the day to day lives of patients of all ages who have problems resulting from physical, mental, social and developmental difficulties. Their main role is to help patients continue doing the everyday activities which are important to them, this helps patients to safely retain and often regain independence.  

To do this, OTs can look at all aspects of patient's daily lives in home, at school or at work, assess their daily activities and work with patients to see if there are any ways of changing their activities to improve wellbeing, productivity and safety.

Methods include, learning new ways to do tasks, suggesting environmental changes and specialist equipment, social support and working alongside families, carers, teachers and employers to optimise treatment and rehabilitation.

They help by:

• Prescribing specialist equipment to help with everyday life

• Practicing activities which aid accessibility

• Listening to the patient and their family

• Suggesting social activities

• Working with patients to set goals for their every day lives, education and careers

• Recognising what work or school could do to help this person

Derby City North PCN are currently recruiting a number of OTs to assist the GP teams at the Practices.

Occupational Therapists

Occupational Therapists often help those who:

• Are frail, with complex needs

• Have a physical disability

• Live with chronic physical or mental health conditions

• Have learning disabilities

• Manage anxiety or depression

• Require advice to return or remain in work

• Need rehabilitation so they can continue with previous occupations (activities of daily living)