Occupational Therapy at Start

The Occupational Therapist works closely with the Artists and Horticulturist to support students’ progress through Start. Loss of skills or confidence to use skills may arise from illness. This may lead to problems carrying out everyday activities. Occupational Therapy can help you identify and overcome these problems and build on your strengths and interests. Safe and supported opportunities to gain new skills or regain lost skills can help you to move towards your personal goals in small achievable steps.

Here are examples of how Occupational Therapy can help students at Start:

Example One

Concentrating in the art session was difficult for Allan. His attendance began to fall and he started to think about leaving. Working with the Occupational Therapist (OT), key problems were identified and a practical plan was agreed to achieve his goal.

As his concentration improved, so too did his confidence and motivation to attend; gradually he was able to stay for the full session with ease. This encouraged him to work towards his next goal of doing a leisure activity he hadn’t been able to do since becoming unwell.

Example Two

Anxiety around public transport was stopping Grace from reaching her goal of studying art at Adult Education. Working with the Occupational Therapist (OT), Grace developed coping skills and confidence to use public transport in small steps, first with the OT and gradually on her own.

This improved her confidence even more. Being in the class and learning new skills increased her self-esteem.

Grace is now working towards leaving Start to go to College.

To find out more about Occupational Therapy an opportunities for professional training visit the website of the College of Occupational Therapy.