South Tees integrated occupational therapy service (IOTS) launched its 20th anniversary celebrations with a visit from Paralympic athlete Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson.
Tanni met several occupational therapy leads who proudly showcased examples of outstanding integrated care including falls and frailty, postural management, children and young people’s services and palliative care.
She also talked about her own experiences and presented a plaque to mark 20 years of IOTS, which was accepted by head of occupational therapy Christina Hartley.
Christina said: “The event recognised the vital role of integrated occupational therapy in reducing barriers, preventing duplication and supporting prevention, independence and wellbeing.
"It also celebrated the dedication of frontline occupational therapy staff working across health and social care and highlighted innovative practice aligned with national priorities for integrated care, prevention and ageing well.”
Cara Nimmo, assistant director adult social care, Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, said: “From a council perspective, prevention and reablement remain high priorities.
Suzanne Hodge, head of service for prevention, provider and support services, Middlesbrough Council, said: “The event recognised the dedication, compassion and professionalism of our teams, who work seamlessly together to provide person-centred support that enables people to live safely, independently and with dignity in their own homes.”
Odeth Richardson, chair of council for the Royal College of Occupational Therapists added:
“This integrated service demonstrates how early, proactive occupational therapy support reduces pressure on systems and transforms outcomes.”