In the short time the student occupational therapists have been with us, they have integrated so seamlessly into our service and supported numerous service users. Imagine how many more people could lead fulfilling lives with occupational therapists based in community centres?”
In the short time the student occupational therapists have been with us, they have integrated so seamlessly into our service and supported numerous service users. Imagine how many more people could lead fulfilling lives with occupational therapists based in community centres?”
What we achieved
During our time at the hub, we were able to offer personalised advice and interventions to a number of service users, helping them overcome challenges related to daily activities.
One individual had recently been discharged from the hospital after a fall. They regularly used the hub, however it was reported that they had stopped attending, so we arranged a home visit. During the visit, we discovered that their confidence was impacted by the fall, preventing them from accessing their local community.
We also identified causes of trips and falls within the home and proceeded to make practical recommendations to ensure they were no longer at risk.
Following this, we were approached by several service users with both physical and mental health diagnoses, seeking advice from occupational therapy. We adapted our communication style to be sensitive to each client’ s needs, while consistently assessing and managing the associated risks.
Service users have not only gained insights from us, but we have also learned a great deal from the perspectives shared in their stories, touching on themes such as culture, religion and mental health. We considered it a privilege to hear such personal and intimate accounts, which also reflect how much they valued our support.
We also co-facilitated several wellbeing groups aimed at increasing participation in occupation, while fostering group cohesion. RCOT promotes community-focused interventions as an effective way to enhance people’ s mental and physical health by promoting social participation and creating a sense of belonging( RCOT 2021).
Throughout our placement, one event that particularly stood out to us was the celebration of International Women’ s Day. This truly represented the meaning of community and highlighted the shared theme of empowerment and belonging.
Additionally, we worked closely with staff to promote safe working practices, implementing strategies and addressing barriers to ensure their safety. This involved establishing clear boundaries for staff, updating relevant resources and considering the physical and social environment.
While it was humbling and saddening to hear about the challenges many individuals face, the resilience and support within the community remain a constant source of strength. The experience left us with a deep sense of admiration for the estate and its community.
As stated by Brunwin( 2024), we feel strongly that ongoing advocacy for the role that occupational therapy can play in the public health agenda is integral. This is evidenced through the work we have accomplished on this placement. At a recent stakeholder meeting, including the Director of Children’ s Services, Head of GP Practice and the Cabinet Lead for Children, the hub advocated for an occupational therapist to be based on site. This felt like a significant development after only having two OT learners on a six-week placement.
Professional development
Our background as occupational therapy apprentices was instrumental in supporting and enhancing our work within the community. We were able to apply the foundational knowledge and practical skills we gained during our apprenticeship to real-life situations.
By implementing theories, conducting assessments and maintaining a holistic, clientcentred approach, we were able to develop the occupational therapy process and support the diverse needs of the community.
We developed our problem-solving skills, which proved invaluable in adapting to the varied challenges we encountered. And with the guidance and support of our educator, we gained the knowledge, skills and confidence to collaborate effectively with the community and make a meaningful impact.
Our time at the community hub has profoundly shaped our professional and personal growth, and we will carry these experiences throughout our future practice.
48 OTnews September 2025