FEATURE COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH
enabled when playing videos is optimal for inclusion . It is helpful to have a test run of these resources with your colleagues , to ensure things run smoothly for the group .
What are the benefits of running online groups ? For those who are anxious or agoraphobic , it can be a good option as a stepping stone to eventually introduce in-person groups and to build their confidence .
As the facilitator , you can have your script on screen , which can help to prompt you through the session .
There is no need to book a venue , which saves on costs , and the therapist ’ s time is also saved in regard to travel , as there is the option to work remotely . Most people already have a phone or device to access the group , and since they do not need to travel or pay for activities , it can be a cheaper alternative for participants as well .
The ability to email resources also helps with environmental impact as less paper is used .
Since we have been able to accept referrals out of area , it means we are able to see more people , despite being a small team of occupational therapists . You are not restricted by locality , since it is virtual .
Having groups offered online allows more options for service users to receive care in a way that best meets their needs . The online groups have been beneficial as a way for individuals to try new activities in a supported environment , while also having the opportunity to meet others and build social connections , to work towards their recovery .
Feedback from group members includes : ‘ The group had a positive snowball effect on the rest of my life , and it has been a lifesaver ’; ‘ Everyone in the group had a voice ’; ‘ My partner has noticed a positive change in me ’; and ‘ It has been really helpful during lockdown to have this online forum ’.
Many noted they had not been part of a group before and felt it was a good stepping stone before in-person groups , which proved to them that they were capable of joining groups .
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Since we have been able to accept referrals out of area , it means we are able to see more people , despite being a small team of occupational therapists . You are not restricted by locality , since it is virtual .
Challenges and the way ahead There can be difficulties with online groups . It can be exclusionary to those that are not ‘ tech-savvy ’ or do not have the equipment needed to join . Technological difficulties are bound to happen at times , and this is why two facilitators are recommended . It is also important to have contingency plans in place .
Ultimately , there is more work to be done within the area of digital inclusion ( Reynolds and England 2020 ). Many of our own meaningful activities , such as banking , health and care services , shopping and virtual social groups have moved to the online space . With developments in the digital era , many still remain digitally excluded . As occupational therapists , it is important to acknowledge there is more work to be done to enable access , whether it is about making environmental adjustments or adapting to the person ’ s cognitive ability , for example . During lockdown there have been many excellent examples of communities coming together online , such as choir or yoga groups , without physical restrictions in regard to accessibility .
Going forwards , with lockdown restrictions easing , a walking and photography group has recently started . As we have received great feedback from the virtual groups , the intention is to continue delivering these groups alongside face-to-face groups , so that as occupational therapists we can continue to offer services as accessibly as we can .
Reference
Reynolds J and England S ( 2020 ) Digital inclusion , Occupational Therapy News , 28 ( 7 ): 57-59
Rosalyn Daly , specialist occupational therapist in adult community mental health , Hertfordshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust . Contact via Twitter at : @ Rosalyn _ OT . With thanks to Ian Gasson , head occupational therapist , for co-founding the online groups and encouraging innovation and adaptability , and the occupational therapy team within adult community mental health in Hertfordshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust for embracing online groups and developing their own . Special thanks to Hayley Goodwin , occupational therapist , for the encouragement to write this piece
48 OTnews August 2021