Occupational Therapy

Through illness, disability or ageing, people may be prevented from doing things they want or need to do in their every day lives.For example, getting dressed, having a shower, going to work or undertaking a favourite hobby. An occupational therapist can help people to learn new things, adapt materials or equipment, or suggest possible changes to the way that people live and work.

The occupational therapists in West Lothian are based at various locations, with most staff employed by either the council's social work department, or the NHS. However, as the shared key priority, the two services work very closely together to maintain the occupational therapy provision for individuals of all ages in West Lothian.

Community Occupational Therapy

Aims of our service

The aim is to enable children, adults and older people with physical, mental and/or learning difficulties to be as independent as possible in the community. We undertake assessments of need and where appropriate provide equipment and adaptations to improve levels of ability and promote a safer environment. How to apply for the service Contact the service using details at the bottom of the page.Information will be collected in order to decide how quickly an Occupational Therapist needs to visit. Anyone can refer on behalf of the service user e.g. self, carer, relative, G.P.

Assessment

We can visit you to discuss what your problems are and how we can help you solve them. It may take more than one visit to complete the assessment. Most of the equipment and adaptations are provided free of charge. Funding of major adaptations is dependent on the ownership of the property.

Self assessment

Self assessment is a service that provides people with direct access to a range of equipment. This includes small items of equipment, handrails and grab rails. The person is provided with this equipment without the need for a full O.T. assessment.

Hospital Occupational Therapy

Service provided

The Occupational Therapy Service at St John's Hospital provides a service to individuals with physical and/or mental health needs. This can be on an inpatient or outpatient basis. An O.T. assessment is carried out to identify areas of capability and need. Aims of treatment are identified, with the patient's consent, and an appropriate treatment programme is agreed. This may include individual treatment sessions, education and advice, group work and/or provision of equipment. O.T. intervention will take place in an environment appropriate to the patients needs. This may include the ward, the patient's home, school or community venue.

How to refer

Referrals (normally through another health or social care professional) should be made to the Occupational Therapy Department at St John's Hospital. Contact Hospital Occupational Therapy Department St John's Hospital Tel 01506 524 150.

Community

Children and Adults under 65 years of age - Tel 01506 777777 Adults over 65 years of age - Tel 01506 776700 Self-assessment - Tel 01506 775608