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Moving & handling

If you have client or family member with moving & handling needs our team of expert moving & handling OT’s will work with you in a flexible and adaptive way to advise on equipment, help train carers, as well as provide up to date guidance on legislation and best practice.

Find out how we can help

What is moving & handling?

We refer to moving and handling as the need to move freely around our environment. Sometimes the ability to complete this independently can be compromised temporarily or permanently due to illness or injury for example. It is when assistance maybe required that a moving and handling occupational therapist can help. Some of the activities a moving and handling expert may be involved in are advising carers on the safest way to support movement, recommending specialist equipment such as hoists and beds or developing more formal bespoke training and risk management plans.

Our approach

We aim to provide relevant and timely advice on moving & handling issues in our client's own home. The assessment involves looking at the environment as well as the client and carer needs to ensure the recommendations we make are practical and achievable. Our collaborative approach with the client at the centre involves working with other professionals (case managers, therapists) family members and carers to ensure risks are identified and managed. We also ensure all moving & handling techniques are in line with current legislation and best clinical practice.

Why use The OT Practice to provide moving & handling advice?

We provide advice from the moment you first call us. Our moving & handling enquiries are answered by a member of our client management team who will be able to provide relevant information about our service, answer any questions you may have and provide guidance on next steps.
Using us allows rapid access to expert occupational therapy moving & handling services avoiding long NHS or Social Service waiting lists.
We have a nationwide team of expert moving & handling occupational therapists and will select the best therapist based on location and clinical need.
Our packages of care are provided into client’s own homes meaning that advice is realistic based on the environment and resources available.
We have established relationships of experienced companies to provide support with moving & handling equipment trials or purchases to make the process as easy as possible for you.
We provide an all inclusive cost to ensure that our services are fully transparent from the start.

Packages of care

Assessment & advice

A moving & handling assessment for an adult or child will involve the OT looking at the client, the environment, the carers, current methods and equipment and more. The assessment ideally takes place at home but can also be delivered in a rehabilitation or respite unit with a subsequent visit to the property. During the assessment we aim to provide guidance on best practice and techniques where appropriate.

Once we have a clear picture of the current and likely future moving & handling needs, and possible risks, we will document this in a report. The comprehensive report will include detailed recommendations, a risk assessment and a moving & handling plan. The recommendations may well include an equipment trial, purchase of equipment or additional training.

Equipment trials & quotes

We aim to provide practical advice and solutions to minimise the risk for all involved in the safe moving & handling of clients. Sometimes in order to recommend the most appropriate item of equipment both clinically and for use in the desired environment, a trial maybe beneficial. Our OT can arrange and attend trial sessions with you to ensure the correct specification is taken and quoted for, so as to avoid costly mistakes.

Training

Our team of specialist moving & handling advisors are skilled at training staff, family or carers on the correct techniques and equipment use to maximise safety when completing moving & handling manoeuvres.

Whether it be formal one-to-one or group sessions relating to the specific moving & handling plan for a client or a more generic training course to a staff team, we ensure that the latest legislation and best practices are adhered to.

We also provide commercial practical and theory training to individuals or groups of carers in manageable lengths of time for your organisation, i.e. half days, full days or more comprehensive courses.

Waiting list clearance

Our team work with NHS trusts and social care teams across the UK to reduce moving & handling waiting lists.

When the in-house team are at capacity and moving & handling cases come in, we have the capability to respond immediately ensuring a prompt assessment is delivered, mitigating risks and enabling the client to remain in the community.

Bulk assessments

Our moving & handling team work with organisations to plan and complete large volumns of assessments and reviews ensuring plans and risk assessments are fully up to date.

Whether it be a number of residents in a care home or a children in a school, if there is a moving & handling need our team can provide assessments, plans, reviews and training promptly to maximise safely and minimse risk.

Assessment & advice
Equipment trials & quotes
Training
Waiting list clearance
Bulk assessments

A few of our moving & handling specialists

Meet a selection of our occupational therapists specialising in moving & handling

Emma, an Occupational Therapist, specialises in housing and equipment, vocational rehabilitation, moving and handling, and neurological rehabilitation.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

West and South West of England, Avon, Bristol, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Bristol, Bath

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Vocational Rehabilitation, Moving and Handling, Neurological rehabilitation

Further qualifications

Train the trainer

Specialist skills

Fatigue management, Pain management, Motivational issues, Routine planning, Financial management, Daily living skills, Community access, Gross motor skills, Fine motor skills, Co-ordination, Planning & execution, Self care, Social integration

Experienced Occupational Therapist Jo specialises in Neurological Rehabilitation, supporting adults with various conditions across the South East of England.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

South East of England, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, Oxfordshire

Specialisms

Hand Therapy, Seating and Postural management, Moving and Handling, Neurological rehabilitation, Functional rehabilitation

Further qualifications

Train the trainer, Certificate in Education

Specialist skills

Fatigue management, Pain management, Daily living skills, Gross motor skills, Fine motor skills, Visual perception, Balance, Planning & execution, Self care, Postural management, Splinting, Anxiety management & relaxation, TBI

Stella offers tailored Occupational Therapy services, specialising in Housing and Equipment, Functional Rehabilitation, and Moving and Handling.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

London

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Functional rehabilitation, Moving and Handling, Neurological rehabilitation

Further qualifications

BIA

Specialist skills

Financial management

Kate is an experienced Occupational Therapist specialising in rehabilitation, housing adaptations, and equipment provision across Southern England.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

South of England, East Sussex, West Sussex

Specialisms

Moving and Handling, Functional rehabilitation, Housing and Equipment

Lisa is an advanced OT in Functional Rehab, Stroke & Neuro Rehab, Moving & Handling covering the West Midlands.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

West Midlands

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Functional rehabilitation, Moving and Handling, Neurological rehabilitation

Specialist skills

Gross motor skills, Fine motor skills

Gemma is a dedicated Occupational Therapist with a specialization in Housing and Equipment, Functional Rehabilitation, and Moving and Handling.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

East Anglia, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire

Specialisms

Moving and Handling, Functional rehabilitation, Housing and Equipment

Specialist skills

DFG Assessments, Blue Badges / Mobility Assessments, PIPs, Fatigue management, Pain management, Routine planning, Daily living skills, Community access, Planning & execution, Self care, Postural management, Wheelchair accreditation

Ellen is expert in falls prevention, neurological and cognitive assessments, rehabilitation planning, and mental health interventions.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

North East England, East Midlands, Lincolnshire, North Yorkshire, South Yorkshire

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Seating and Postural management, Moving and Handling, Functional rehabilitation

Further qualifications

CBT

Specialist skills

Fatigue management, Financial management, Daily living skills, Community access, Gross motor skills, Fine motor skills, Self care, Social integration, Mental Health, TBI

Leah has a wealth of experience across different areas of speciality including elderly care, rehabilitation, equipment provision and neurology.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

East Midlands, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire

Specialisms

Functional rehabilitation, Moving and Handling, Neurological rehabilitation, Seating and Postural management, Housing and Equipment

Specialist skills

Fatigue management, Daily living skills, Gross motor skills, Fine motor skills, Handwriting assessment & treatment, Co-ordination, Planning & execution, Self care, TBI

Based in Wales, Elisha is an experienced Occupational Therapist who supports individuals with long-term conditions, promoting independence and self-management.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

Wales, Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Merthyr Tydfil, Monmouthshire, Newport, Rhondda Cynon Taff, Torfaen, The Vale of Glamorgan, Bristol, Cardiff

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Seating and Postural management, Moving and Handling

Specialist skills

DFG Assessments, Fatigue management, Daily living skills, Postural management, Anxiety management & relaxation

Cathy is an experienced OT working in Suffolk, Norfolk, and Cambridgeshire with adult clients with physical needs.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

East Midlands, East Anglia, London, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Middlesex, Norfolk, Northamptonshire, Rutland, Suffolk, London - North

Specialisms

Moving and Handling, Seating and Postural management, Housing and Equipment

Specialist skills

DFG Assessments, Blue Badges / Mobility Assessments, Daily living skills, Community access, Self care, Postural management, Wheelchair accreditation

Cheryl is a specialist Occupational Therapist with expertise in rehabilitation, housing adaptations, and equipment provision, promoting independence and safety.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

West Midlands, Cheshire, Wolverhampton

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Seating and Postural management, Functional rehabilitation, Moving and Handling, Neurological rehabilitation

Located in Edgeware, Miriam is an expert OT who supports adults of all ages with rehabilitation and housing needs.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

East Anglia, London, South East of England, Bedfordshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Middlesex, London - Central, London - North, London - East, London - West

Specialisms

Moving and Handling, Functional rehabilitation, Seating and Postural management, Housing and Equipment

Specialist skills

Fatigue management, Pain management, Daily living skills, Balance, Co-ordination, Self care, Postural management

Specialising in complex physical and mental health conditions, Sarah provides expert Occupational Therapy assessments to clients across North West England.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

North West England, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Merseyside

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Seating and Postural management, Functional rehabilitation, Moving and Handling

Further qualifications

Certificate in Education

Specialist skills

Fatigue management, Routine planning, Financial management, Daily living skills, Community access, Gross motor skills, Fine motor skills, Behaviour management, Visual perception, Anxiety management & relaxation, Mental Health

Occupational Therapist Hannah specializes in housing and equipment, seating and postural management, functional rehabilitation, moving and handling, and neurological rehabilitation.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

East Anglia, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, Suffolk

Specialisms

Neurological rehabilitation, Functional rehabilitation, Moving and Handling, Seating and Postural management, Housing and Equipment

Specialist skills

Fatigue management, Routine planning, Daily living skills, Self care, Postural management

Nikki is a highly skilled OT, specialising in Housing & Equipment. She is based in Middlesex, visiting clients across London.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

London, South East of England, Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, Middlesex, London - Central, London - North, London - South, London - East, London - West

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Moving and Handling

Specialist skills

DFG Assessments, Daily living skills, Visual perception, Self care

Jessica is an experienced Neurological Occupational Therapist, offering expert rehabilitation services across London.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

London

Specialisms

Functional rehabilitation, Moving and Handling, Neurological rehabilitation, Vocational Rehabilitation, Seating and Postural management

Simone is an expert OT based in Surrey and specialises in brain injury, dementia, and neurological conditions.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

South East of England, Surrey, London - West

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Functional rehabilitation, Neurological rehabilitation, Moving and Handling

Further qualifications

BOBATH

Specialist skills

Routine planning, Daily living skills, Planning & execution, Self care, Postural management

Based in Northampton, Sophy is an OT with expertise in the field of Neurological Rehabilitation.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

West Midlands, East Midlands, London, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, Rutland, Warwickshire, London - North, Coventry, Leicester

Specialisms

Moving and Handling, Neurological rehabilitation, Functional rehabilitation, Vocational Rehabilitation

Specialist skills

Motivational issues, Routine planning, Daily living skills, Gross motor skills, Fine motor skills, Planning & execution, Self care, Social integration, Anxiety management & relaxation, TBI

Specialising in Moving & Handling, Tammy is a highly skilled OT based in Dartford in Kent.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

London, South East of England, Essex, Kent

Specialisms

Moving and Handling

Jennie is a highly experienced OT based in Doncaster. She provides Functional and Neuro rehabilitation for adults across Yorkshire.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, South Yorkshire, Sheffield

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Functional rehabilitation, Moving and Handling

Further qualifications

Train the trainer

Specialist skills

Routine planning, Daily living skills, Gross motor skills, Fine motor skills, Co-ordination, Planning & execution, Self care

Based in North West England, Ben provides expert assessment and intervention for individuals with a range of complex Neurological conditions.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

North West England

Specialisms

Seating and Postural management, Functional rehabilitation, Moving and Handling, Neurological rehabilitation

Further qualifications

BOBATH, BIA

Specialist skills

Daily living skills, Gross motor skills, Fine motor skills, Visual perception, Co-ordination, Planning & execution, Self care, TBI

Rachelle is a highly skilled Occupational Therapist specialising in housing, seating, functional and neurological rehabilitation, and moving & handling.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

South East of England, Hampshire

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Seating and Postural management, Functional rehabilitation, Neurological rehabilitation, Moving and Handling

Further qualifications

BOBATH

Specialist skills

Routine planning, Daily living skills, Community access, Postural management

Qualified in 1986, experienced Occupational Therapist Adele specialises in Housing and Equipment, supporting clients across the South West of England.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

West and South West of England, Somerset, Wiltshire, Bath

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Seating and Postural management, Moving and Handling

Further qualifications

Train the trainer

Specialist skills

Blue Badges / Mobility Assessments

Jen is an expert OT providing Rehabilitation, Seating & Postural Management and Housing & Equipment interventions across East Anglia.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, East Anglia, London, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Kent, Leicestershire, Norfolk, Nottinghamshire, Suffolk

Specialisms

Moving and Handling, Neurological rehabilitation, Functional rehabilitation, Vocational Rehabilitation, Seating and Postural management, Housing and Equipment

Specialist skills

Counselling, DFG Assessments, Blue Badges / Mobility Assessments, Fatigue management, Pain management, Motivational issues, Routine planning, Financial management, Daily living skills, Community access, Sensory integration, Balance, Planning & execution, Self care, Postural management, Sign Language, Anxiety management & relaxation

Hayley is an experienced OT who delivers expert Functional Rehabilitation to clients across East Anglia.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

East Anglia, Norfolk, Suffolk

Specialisms

Seating and Postural management, Functional rehabilitation, Moving and Handling

Specialist skills

Fatigue management, Daily living skills, Planning & execution, Self care, Postural management, Anxiety management & relaxation

Based in Cheshire, Occupational Therapist Claire specialises in tailored interventions, housing adaptations, and supporting diverse conditions, with extensive clinical experience.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

North West England, Cheshire

Specialisms

Functional rehabilitation, Moving and Handling, Seating and Postural management, Housing and Equipment, Paediatrics

Specialist skills

DFG Assessments

Located in London, Catherine is an expert Occupational Therapist who supports adults of all ages with rehabilitation needs.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

London, Kent, London - South

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Seating and Postural management, Neurological rehabilitation, Functional rehabilitation, Moving and Handling

Further qualifications

BIA

Specialist skills

Blue Badges / Mobility Assessments, Community access, Fine motor skills, Handwriting assessment & treatment, Visual perception, Co-ordination, Self care, Anxiety management & relaxation

Louisa is an Occupational Therapist specializing in housing and equipment, seating and postural management, functional rehabilitation, and moving and handling.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

West and South West of England, Devon

Specialisms

Moving and Handling, Functional rehabilitation, Seating and Postural management, Housing and Equipment

Specialising in functional rehabilitation and moving and handling, Aminah is an Occupational Therapist covering South East England.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

South East of England, Buckinghamshire

Specialisms

Functional rehabilitation, Moving and Handling

Specialist skills

Balance

OT Claire delivers Seating & Postural Management, Functional Rehabilitation, and Moving & Handling services in Wales (Cardiff, Monmouthshire) and Bristol.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

Wales, Bristol, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Monmouthshire, Newport, Torfaen, Cardiff

Specialisms

Moving and Handling, Seating and Postural management, Functional rehabilitation

Specialist skills

Fatigue management, Daily living skills, Self care, Postural management

Ellie is an expert OT based in Gloucestershire, delivering specialist Housing & Equipment assessments to clients at home.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

West and South West of England, Wales, Avon, Bristol, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Oxfordshire, Somerset, Wiltshire, Worcestershire, Cardiff, Monmouthshire, Newport, The Vale of Glamorgan

Specialisms

Seating and Postural management, Housing and Equipment, Moving and Handling

Specialist skills

DFG Assessments, Blue Badges / Mobility Assessments, Daily living skills, Postural management

Helena, an experienced Occupational Therapist in the South East, specialises in equipment and home adaptation assessments to support independence.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

South East of England, East Sussex, Hampshire, Surrey, West Sussex

Specialisms

Moving and Handling, Housing and Equipment

Rachael is an experienced Occupational Therapist specialising in home assessments, providing tailored solutions for adaptations and equipment needs for adults.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

North West England, North East England, Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, West Midlands, East Midlands, West and South West of England, London, Wales

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Moving and Handling, Functional rehabilitation, Neurological rehabilitation

Specialist skills

DFG Assessments, Fatigue management, Pain management, Daily living skills, Community access, Balance, Self care

Specialising in neuro-rehabilitation, Sarah is an OT based in Devon, working with clients following neurological trauma or diagnosis.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

West and South West of England, Cornwall, Devon, Plymouth

Specialisms

Neurological rehabilitation, Moving and Handling, Housing and Equipment, Seating and Postural management, Functional rehabilitation

Specialist skills

Daily living skills, Behaviour management, Postural management

Based in Newcastle, Kathryn is an expert OT working with clients with rehabilitation needs across the North East of England.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

North West England, North East England

Specialisms

Functional rehabilitation, Seating and Postural management, Housing and Equipment, Moving and Handling, Neurological rehabilitation

Specialist skills

TBI

Qualifying in 2004, Katherine is an experienced OT specialising in Paediatrics and Housing, providing tailored support across Dorset and Hampshire.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

South of England, Dorset, Hampshire

Specialisms

Moving and Handling, Housing and Equipment, Seating and Postural management

Based in South London, Cheryle is a highly skilled OT who provides expert interventions to adult and elderly clients.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

London

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Functional rehabilitation, Moving and Handling

Based in London, Occupational Therapist Sandeep specialising in Housing and Equipment, and Moving and Handling for both adults and children.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

London, East Sussex, London - East

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Moving and Handling

Sara is a highly experienced Occupational Therapist with over three decades of expertise in rehabilitation, adaptations, and independent living solutions.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

Wales, Cheshire, Liverpool

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Seating and Postural management, Moving and Handling, Functional rehabilitation

Further qualifications

BIA

Specialist skills

DFG Assessments, Blue Badges / Mobility Assessments, Daily living skills, Self care

Liz is an expert Occupational Therapist specialising in rehabilitation, equipment, and mobility, serving Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, and Monmouthshire.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

Specialisms

Moving and Handling, Seating and Postural management, Housing and Equipment

Aisling is an Occupational Therapist specialising in Seating and Postural Management, Functional and Neurological Rehabilitation, and Moving and Handling.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

Northern Ireland, Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Londonderry, Tyrone, Belfast

Specialisms

Functional rehabilitation, Seating and Postural management, Moving and Handling, Neurological rehabilitation

Specialist skills

Fatigue management, Routine planning, Financial management, Daily living skills, Community access, Gross motor skills, Fine motor skills, Visual perception, Balance, Co-ordination, Planning & execution, Self care, Postural management, Splinting, Anxiety management & relaxation, TBI

Based in Derbyshire, Sarah is a highly experienced Occupational Therapist who visits clients across the West Midlands.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

West Midlands, East Midlands, Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, South Yorkshire, Staffordshire, West Midlands, Birmingham, Sheffield, Coventry, Nottingham, Leicester, Stoke-on-Trent, Wolverhampton, Derby

Specialisms

Moving and Handling, Seating and Postural management, Housing and Equipment

Specialist skills

Blue Badges / Mobility Assessments, Fatigue management, Pain management, Routine planning, Daily living skills, Gross motor skills, Fine motor skills, Planning & execution, Self care, Postural management

An expert OT in Neurological Rehabilitation, Anna works with adult clients in Kent and London.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

, Kent

Specialisms

Seating and Postural management, Functional rehabilitation, Moving and Handling, Neurological rehabilitation

Specialist skills

Fatigue management, Motivational issues, Routine planning, Financial management, Daily living skills, Community access, Behaviour management, Visual perception, Balance, Co-ordination, Planning & execution, Self care, Postural management, Splinting

Midlands based Joy is an Occupational Therapist specializing in Housing & Equipment, Functional Rehabilitation, and Moving & Handling.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

East Midlands, Bedfordshire, Kent, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Functional rehabilitation, Moving and Handling

Further qualifications

Train the trainer

Working with adults, Joanne offers specialised Occupational Therapy services focusing on neurological rehabilitation, housing adaptations, functional rehabilitation, and equipment provision.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

North West England, North East England, Scotland, Cumbria, Durham, North Yorkshire, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear, Borders, East Lothian, Edinburgh (City of), Fife, Midlothian, West Lothian, Edinburgh, Sunderland, Newcastle upon Tyne, Middlesbrough

Specialisms

Functional rehabilitation, Moving and Handling, Neurological rehabilitation, Seating and Postural management, Housing and Equipment

Specialist skills

DFG Assessments, Blue Badges / Mobility Assessments, Fatigue management, Pain management, Routine planning, Daily living skills, Community access, Gross motor skills, Fine motor skills, Visual perception, Self care, Anxiety management & relaxation, TBI

Located in Devon, Amy is an expert OT who provides specialist interventions for clients across the South-West of England.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

West and South West of England, Devon, Dorset, Somerset

Specialisms

Seating and Postural management, Functional rehabilitation, Neurological rehabilitation, Moving and Handling

Further qualifications

Train the trainer

Specialist skills

Daily living skills, Gross motor skills, Self care, Postural management, TBI

Sue specialises in Housing & Equipment, having developed her expertise in environments across Somerset for the past 20 years.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

West and South West of England, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire

Specialisms

Moving and Handling, Functional rehabilitation, Housing and Equipment

Specialist skills

Routine planning, Daily living skills, Self care

Lesley, an Occupational Therapist who qualified in 2008, specialises in housing and equipment, alongside moving and handling.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

North West England, North East England, Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, West Midlands

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Moving and Handling

Alyssa is an experienced Occupational Therapist specialising in neurological rehabilitation, functional rehabilitation, and moving and handling across the South West.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

West and South West of England, Bristol, Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Bristol, Plymouth

Specialisms

Functional rehabilitation, Moving and Handling, Neurological rehabilitation

Specialist skills

Fatigue management, Pain management, Routine planning, Daily living skills, Gross motor skills, Fine motor skills, Handwriting assessment & treatment, Visual perception, Balance, Planning & execution, Self care, Postural management, Anxiety management & relaxation, TBI

Caroline is a skilled Occupational Therapist specialising in Paediatrics and Neurological Rehabilitation, supporting children and adults across Greater London.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

London

Specialisms

Paediatrics, Housing and Equipment, Moving and Handling, Neurological rehabilitation, Functional rehabilitation

Specialist skills

Community access, Sensory integration, Gross motor skills, Fine motor skills, Co-ordination, Anxiety management & relaxation, TBI

Jess supports children and adults with functional rehabilitation, equipment adaptations, moving and handling, and complex paediatrics clients.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

North East England

Specialisms

Functional rehabilitation, Moving and Handling, Seating and Postural management, Paediatrics, Housing and Equipment

Specialist skills

Motivational interviewing, Pain management

Working in the North West and West Midlands, Sam is an expert OT specialising in Neurological Rehabilitation.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

North West England, West Midlands, East Midlands, Cheshire, Derbyshire, Greater Manchester, Shropshire, Staffordshire, West Midlands, Newport, Manchester, Stoke-on-Trent

Specialisms

Functional rehabilitation, Seating and Postural management, Moving and Handling, Neurological rehabilitation

Specialist skills

Routine planning, Daily living skills, Community access, Gross motor skills, Fine motor skills, Behaviour management, Visual perception, Co-ordination, Planning & execution, Self care, Social integration, Splinting, Anxiety management & relaxation, TBI

Occupational Therapist Suzanne specialises in Moving and Handling, Neurological Rehabilitation, and Housing and Equipment across the South West of England.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

West and South West of England, Bristol, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Wiltshire, Cardiff, Newport

Specialisms

Neurological rehabilitation, Moving and Handling, Housing and Equipment

Specialist skills

DFG Assessments, Routine planning, Daily living skills, Self care

With over two decades of experience, highly skilled Occupational Therapist Natasha provides specialised therapy services across South East England.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

East Anglia, London, South East of England, East Sussex, Essex, Hertfordshire, Kent, Surrey, West Sussex

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Seating and Postural management, Moving and Handling, Functional rehabilitation, Neurological rehabilitation

Specialist skills

PIPs, Fatigue management, Pain management, Daily living skills, Community access, Gross motor skills, Fine motor skills, Balance, Co-ordination, Self care, Social integration, Sign Language, Wheelchair accreditation, Anxiety management & relaxation, TBI

Working in the North East of England, Fran is a dedicated Occupational Therapist specialising in housing & equipment.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

North East England, North Yorkshire, Newcastle upon Tyne

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Moving and Handling

Further qualifications

Sensory Integration

Specialist skills

DFG Assessments

Jackie is an experienced Occupational Therapist specialising in Housing, Equipment, and Moving and Handling across Wales and North West England.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

North West England, Wales, Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Shropshire, Bridgend, Cardiff, Ceredigion, Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Isle of Anglesey, Merthyr Tydfil, Pembrokeshire, Powys, Swansea, Wrexham, Liverpool, Manchester, Bristol, Cardiff, Coventry, Swansea, Salford

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Moving and Handling

Further qualifications

Train the trainer

Specialist skills

DFG Assessments, Routine planning, Daily living skills, Community access, Self care, Mental Health

Jacqui, an OT with a focus on housing and equipment, moving and handling, and functional rehabilitation, is based in Surrey.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

South East of England, Surrey, West Sussex

Specialisms

Moving and Handling, Functional rehabilitation, Housing and Equipment

Specialising in Housing and Equipment, Moving and Handling, and Functional Rehabilitation Occupational Therapist Claire works across North West England.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

North West England, North East England, Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, West Midlands, Wales

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Functional rehabilitation, Moving and Handling

Specialist skills

Motivational interviewing, DFG Assessments, Fatigue management, Pain management, Motivational issues, Routine planning, Financial management, Daily living skills, Community access, Planning & execution, Self care, Anxiety management & relaxation, Learning disability

Specializing in housing and equipment, seating and postural management, and moving and handling, Leroy is a dedicated Occupational Therapist.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

South East of England, Kent, London - Central, London - North, London - South, London - East, London - West

Specialisms

Housing and Equipment, Seating and Postural management, Moving and Handling

Further qualifications

Train the trainer

Specialist skills

Daily living skills, Gross motor skills, Self care

Dearbhla provides specialised occupational therapy in neurological rehabilitation, functional rehabilitation, housing and equipment, and improving daily living skills.

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Profession

Occupational Therapy

Regions covered

West and South West of England, Wales, Bristol, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Monmouthshire, Newport, The Vale of Glamorgan, Bristol, Cardiff, Swansea

Specialisms

Functional rehabilitation, Moving and Handling, Neurological rehabilitation, Housing and Equipment

Specialist skills

Blue Badges / Mobility Assessments, Fatigue management, Routine planning, Daily living skills, Gross motor skills, Fine motor skills, Visual perception, Self care, Postural management, Wheelchair accreditation, TBI

Services for businesses, organisations and the public sector

Care homes

Individual or group assessments with training and equipment solutions.

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Charities

Working with charities to provide reports and recommendations for grant funding applications.

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Local authorities

Moving & handling waiting list clearance or management solutions.

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NHS trusts

Assessments, plans, equipment solutions and reviews for in house, community or rehabilitation settings.

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Case managers

A complete moving & handling service including assessment, report, plans, training, equipment advice and reviews.

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Healthcare concierge

Assessment, training and advice for clients in their own homes in the UK or internationally.

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Commonly asked questions about our Moving & Handling service

Questions about how OT's can help with moving & handling

How do I choose the right slings for bathing, toileting and transfers and how an occupational therapist can help?

Choosing the correct sling to assist with moving & handling is key to a successful transfer with minimal risk and maximum comfort for all involved.

Our occupational therapists are experts in this field. Prior to selecting the most appropriate sling we would consider:

The specific activity that the sling is to be used for i.e. bathing, toileting or dry activities.
The details of the person being moved i.e. body shape, height, weight and medical conditions.
The environment in which the sling is being used.
The equipment the sling will be attached to.
The skill level of the carers.

Through focusing on these key principles we can optimise successful outcomes whilst ensuring comfort, support, respect and dignity to our clients and carers.

Find out more about moving around the home and how our OT’s can help.

How do I choose the right hoist?

The selection of the most appropriate hoist is dependent on a number of factors including:

The client’s body shape, size, weight, height, medical conditions and their cognitive abilities.
The reasoning for its use.
The environment in which the hoist will be used in and available space.
The skill level and physical capabilities of the carers.

The appropriate selection of the most suitable hoist can reduce the number of carers required for transfers thereby reducing costs and maximising the client’s dignity and privacy. It is general practice for 2 people to operate a mobile hoist and 1 or more people to operate a ceiling track hoist (although this is depending on the factors listed above).

An occupational therapist who specialises in moving & handling can offer expert advice on hoist types specific to that client therefore optimising successful outcomes.

What is the difference between a mobile and a ceiling track hoist?

Mobile hoists are used to assist the safe and effective transfer of a client over a short distance. They can be flexible, portable and cost-effective. However it is recommended that 2 carers are present for their use as they are required to push or pull the weight of the hoist and the client during the transfer. Mobile hoists can be categorised into manual or electric operating systems.

Ceiling track hoists are physically easier for the carer to use as they do not require them to physically manoeuvre the hoist and the weight of the client. Ceiling track hoists enables the carer to glide the client along the track with minimal effort. They are typically used when environmental space is limited and the use of the hoist a more permanent solution.

A ceiling track hoist can be more expensive to install than a mobile one and can be categorised into single or crossing track operating systems depending if their use is from one single point to another or if there is a requirement for the client to be transferred for varying locations in range of the tracks.

What moving & handling training do I or carers need?

This can vary depending on the nature of your employment or caring requirements. However, it is essential that you know about the safe movement and handling of clients to prevent injury to yourself or them. It would be relevant to explore what types of movements you need to assist your clients with and within what environmental areas for example:

Within the bedroom your client’s may require assistance to get in/out, reposition or to sit in bed.
In the bathroom they may need assistance to get on/off the toilet, to access the bath/shower.
They may require assistance to get on/off chair, to stand, to walk or to transport in a vehicle.

The most common injuries with moving & handling are back injuries which will limit your movement and ability to care and fulfil your employment duties.

There are several ways in which you can minimise these injuries including specific training to your area of work or caring environment, support and the purchase of appropriate equipment.

How do you complete a moving & handling risk assessment and plan?

The aim of a moving & handling plan is to identify and mitigate the risks that may occur when moving a person or load. Whether it be for an individual client in a care setting or the movement of loads in the workplace, a moving & handling plan is a vital part of reducing the risk of injury.

An occupational therapist who specialises within moving & handling can assist you to complete the assessment and would seek to explore:

The type and frequency of moving & handling tasks.
Your equipment needs.
Staffing levels.
The environment.
What is required in emergencies such as fire evacuations or falls.

Once the risks are identified, your occupational therapist can advise on appropriate precautions to mitigate them.

How can an occupational therapist help with hoisting in the community?

When an occupational therapist assesses and advises on hoisting in the community they are looking to:

Identify current challenges and risks both during the day and at night.
Assess environmental restrictions.
Identify the abilities of the current carers.
Establish the moving & handling goals of the client and the carers.
Pressure care and the medical requirements of the client.

The information is gained through:

Observation of current techniques.
Establishing a current list of equipment and observing its use.
A collaborative assessment of, and with, the client and carers.

Once our occupational therapist has a clear picture of the hoisting needs of a client, they will provide practical advice and recommendations on what can be implemented to minimise risk and promote the safe moving & handling for all parties. Recommendations may include:

Training for carers and the client.
Equipment trials.
Provision of new equipment such as hoists, beds or slings.
A detailed moving & handling plan to be shared with all parties and to travel with the client should they be admitted to hospital for example.

Questions about conditions that impact on moving & handling

Can you hoist an amputee?

Yes. However a full moving & handling risk assessment would need to be completed to ensure you have selected the most suitable hoist and sling type and the carers are appropriately trained. An occupational therapist can complete a specific assessment of a client's moving & handling needs both during the day and at night and advise accordingly.

Find out more about amputations and how our OT’s can help.

Which hoists and slings are best for neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis?

There are a number of hoists and slings available for a large range of conditions including neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis.

However, the type of hoist and sling recommended would depend on the individual client and the impact of the condition on their ability to transfer.

An occupational therapist can complete a specific assessment of a client's day and night time moving & handling needs. This would allow them to make recommendations about the most appropriate hoist and sling to meet the client's needs.

The assessment will look at:

The client’s current and likely future clinical and medical needs.
Pressure care.
The level of support they are currently requiring.
The environment that equipment is likely to be used in i.e. how much space is there?
If equipment is likely to be required to be transportable for holidays or short breaks.
The ability and knowledge of carers.
The goals and wishes of the client and their carers.

Once the above information is collated, the OT can advise on the next steps. Sometimes we are able to recommend appropriate equipment immediately after an assessment, in which case all relevant details will be provided. However if the client’s needs or requirements are more complex, the OT may well recommend a trial with an experienced and knowledgable hoist and sling company. This ensures that the purchase of equipment is suitable for both the immediate and long term needs of the client.

Our OT can arrange for equipment trails to happen in the client’s home at a time suitable for them. It is always advised that the occupational therapist also attends this appointment to ensure that the most clinically and cost effective solution is purchased.

Find out more about multiple sclerosis and how our OT’s can help.

What advice can you give for hoisting someone that goes into spasms and how an occupational therapist can help?

The advice given will depend on the person and the nature and duration of their spasms. An occupational therapist can complete a specific assessment of a person's moving & handling needs. This will enable us to explore the requirement of specific equipment and to make cost-effective and clinically relevant recommendations as to which hoist/sling type would suit them best.

What advice can you give for hoisting someone a high spinal injury and how an occupational therapist can help?

The advice given will depend on the client and the nature of their injury. An occupational therapist with specialist experience in the moving & handling of client's with a spinal injury, can complete a specific assessment of the moving & handling needs. This will enable them to:

Recommend specific equipment such as hoists, slings, beds and chairs.
Training for carers.
environmental alterations such as bathrooms and kitchens.
Specialist equipment trails.

Find out more about spinal injury and how our OT’s can help.

How can an occupational therapist help with hoisting someone with Dementia?

An occupational therapist with experience in the special considerations for a client with dementia, can complete a specific assessment of a client’s moving & handling needs. The assessment will look at:

The client’s current and likely future clinical and medical needs.
Pressure care.
The level of support they are currently requiring.
The environment that equipment is likely to be used in i.e. how much space is there?
If equipment is likely to be required to be transportable for holidays or short breaks.
The ability and knowledge of carers.
The goals and wishes of the client and their carers.

This will enable us to explore the requirement of specific equipment and to make cost-effective and clinically relevant recommendations that may include:

Specific equipment such as hoists, slings, beds and chairs.
Training for carers.
environmental alterations such as bathrooms and kitchens.
Specialist equipment trails.

Find out more about dementia and how our OT’s can help.

What advice can you give for hoisting someone following brain injuries or stroke and how an occupational therapist can help?

An occupational therapist, with experience in the special considerations for a client with a brain injury can complete a specific assessment of a client’s moving & handling needs. The information gathered in the assessment will inform the occupational therapist to be able to provide tailored advice on the moving & handling needs of the client. Recommendations may include:

Equipment such as hoists, slings, specialist beds or chairs.
Training for carers.
Trails of more specialist equipment.
Environmental alterations to allow the use of the required equipment and minimising risks to carers.

Find out more about brain injury and how our OT’s can help.

Questions about seeking independent occupational therapy moving & handling assessments or advice

What is involved in a Moving & Handling assessment and how long does it take?

Initial moving & handling assessments can take between 2 to 3 hours. The assessment generally includes:

Discussions with the client and their carers over the previous, current and desired future moving & handling plan.
Assessment of the client’s current and likely future physical and cognitive needs.
An environmental assessment.
Observation and analysis of the current moving & handling techniques and equipment being used.
Observation and analysis of the equipment currently being used.
Review of carer training to date and their level of ability and knowledge.

The assessment is a combination of observation, activity analysis and clinical interview.

What happens after the assessment?

Following the assessment, the OT will complete a comprehensive moving & handling assessment report, risk assessment and handling management plan.

The OT will make practical recommendations on what can be implemented to reduce risk and maximise safe and efficient transfers.

Following an assessment, where do you source your equipment?

We will always recommend the most clinically appropriate item of equipment for the client. The OT Practice have a large network of supplies to offer a range of equipment solutions; we recognise that everyone’s handling needs are different and frequently arrange for rep visits to trial equipment rather than recommend ‘off the shelf’ products.

What training do you provide for support workers and family members?

If the OT identifies that training for support staff and carers is required then a bespoke training package can be provided. The sessions could be for groups of employed carers or one to one sessions for a family carer.

The sessions are structured around the individual needs of the client and their family or care team. Handouts are provided to support the session and we will use the moving & handling plan as the base for teaching so that it becomes a familiar and working document for the family and carers.

Who else do you provide training for?

In addition to providing training for carers of clients, The OT Practice can provide theory and practical training for care service providers, schools / colleges, nursing / residential homes and businesses at a location of their preference. The OT Practice will provide all course materials and handouts.

What is covered in a training session?

This list is not exhaustive and can be tailored to meet your specific needs and requirements:

Relevant legislation, employer and employee responsibilities.
Spinal function; the importance of good back care including static postures and other risk factors of back pain.
The principles of normal human movement.
Controversial techniques.
Risk assessment documentation.
An awareness of workplace hazards and risks.
Principles of safe moving & handling using an ergonomic approach.
Practical demonstrations of safer manual handling techniques using the principles of biomechanics.
The use of problem solving scenarios.

Training sessions can vary in length from a few hours for a private client to 1 or 2 days initial or refresher training for staff groups; course content will be adapted accordingly.

Do you provide training certificates?

Yes, certificates of competence will be provided at the end of the training session.

Do you supply your own handling aids/hoists for the training?

We are happy use equipment that is already in place, provided it is fit for purpose and in safe working order. If we need to bring our own, this can be arranged at an additional hire charge.

I have heard of ‘train the trainer’ what does this mean?

These are specific training courses for clinicians who are involved in the training of others. There are a number of reputable organisations providing people handling training in the UK; these are usually 4-5 days in duration and provide theory and practical knowledge, skills and course materials to design, develop and deliver training to groups of staff including carers, nursing/residential homes and home care agencies.

Courses are accredited with the CPD Certification Service. Refresher training is recommended every 2 years.

How do you recruit your moving & handling experts?

All our OTs are interviewed prior to joining us. We ask for a minimum of 5 years post qualifying experience and they must be registered with the HCPC and members of The College of Occupational Therapists. Many of our Moving & Handling advisors are also members of the National Back Exchange. We obtain copies of all relevant documentation such as DBS, HCPC and professional body registration certificates. Through this process we select the OTs that are experts in their field and have the knowledge, skills and experience required to work to a high standard expected in private practice

Can you explain the difference in terminology between Manual Handling and Moving & Handling?

There has been a shift away from the rather outdated term Manual Handling as this suggests physical labour involving bodily force and effort; going back 15 years, many of the recommended techniques involved ‘lifting’ such as the Australian lift, Orthodox lift and Drag lift. These moves are deemed to be higher risk to both the client and carer. Good practice indicates that these moves are only to be used on life threatening/emergency situations. Moving & handling is a better description of our focus on how people move or are assisted to move.

Moving & handling

What is moving & handling?

Our approach

Why use The OT Practice to provide moving & handling advice?

Public sector, charities and businesses

Common difficulties we treat

Common conditions we help with

Packages of care

Assessment & advice

Equipment trials & quotes

Training

Waiting list clearance

Bulk assessments

A few of our moving & handling specialists

Emma

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Jo

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Stella

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Kate

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Lisa

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Gemma

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Ellen

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Leah

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Elisha

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Cathy

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Cheryl

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Miriam

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Sarah

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