Paediatric occupational therapy is available for children and young people aged 0 to 18 (up to 19 for those in special schools) who have difficulty taking part in day-to-day activities such as dressing, feeding, writing, playing and using tools.
Occupational therapists assess and provide individually tailored treatment to help children and young people to maximise their independence and reduce the difficulties they are experiencing. Following an occupational therapy assessment, a treatment plan will be developed in line with functional goals. Treatment sessions might be delivered as individual sessions, group work (via video platform), and/or parent workshops (via video platform). The therapist will work closely with family members and school staff to ensure that the home and learning environment is suitable for the child's needs.
The service supports children and young people with difficulties and impairments including:
- Cerebral palsy
- Muscular dystrophy
- Developmental delay and learning disabilities
- Profound multiple disabilities
- Sensory processing disorder
- Developmental co-ordination disorder, e.g. dyspraxia
- Autistic spectrum disorder
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
- Juvenile arthritis
Therapy is provided in a range of locations in Brent including:
- Playgroups, nurseries and children’s centres
- Mainstream schools
- Special schools
- Occupational therapy clinics at the Willesden and Wembley Centres for Health and Care
The service has an open referral policy which means that any child or young person can be referred as long as they have parental consent. Parents can self refer by telephone or email and request a referral form.