Karin Orman, Director of Practice and Innovation at the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, said:
‘We need more occupational therapists providing care in the community. We welcome Labour’s commitments to reform the NHS to be more community-based, including the idea of Neighbourhood Health Centres. We’d certainly expect occupational therapists to be included in this trial. We also welcome strengthening the partnership between the NHS and social care, and would be keen to see occupational therapy involvement in the development of a national care service and standards.
‘Widening access to occupational therapy where people live, work and go to school will help prevent people reaching crisis point and ultimately reduce pressure on health services. It will mean people will have the support they need to live in their own homes for longer and continue with the occupations that they want and have to do.
‘By focussing on prevention and early intervention, people living with multiple health conditions or complex needs will be better able to manage their symptoms and reduce the need for hospital and specialist services.’