Why do I enjoy being an independent OT?
Why do I enjoy being an independent OT?
Well I love variety and I hate stagnating. I want to be really good at what I do and it’s essential that I get to do what I’m really good at. Learning from others and making a difference where I can are important, as is being part of a team - but with the autonomy to make my own decisions, organise my own time and create/facilitate change where it’s needed.
The week before last shows the variety and balance being an independent OT has given me:
Monday
Spent 2 hours talking with Cass who used to be a fighter pilot before becoming a famous DJ in the 60s, 70s & 80s; hearing stories of his life and time spent with Mohammed Ali, Liz Taylor & the Queen! We eventually got round to sorting out his bathroom so he can have a wash again without help.
After a quick decontamination the afternoon was all about finding the right environmental controls and access solutions for Jess who’d just had her doors and windows replaced as part of a modernisation project and now couldn’t open them without help.
Tuesday:
A day of training, coaching and planning for 2021, with a little RCOT Specialist Section Independent Practice NEC committee planning and thinking thrown into the mix (big plans for 2021...watch this space!). All whilst wearing my pyjamas.
Wednesday:
After taking the kids to school it was back home for supervision with one of our OTs first thing. Then on to a meeting with my fellow Practititoner’s who’ll be joining me on a marketing journey next year with Bryony Thomas of Watertight marketing. Can’t wait to get stuck in and figure out some exciting new ways to spread the word about OT & our housing expertise!
Took Wednesday afternoon off last minute, because I wanted to. Picked the kids up and went for to the park for some fresh air!
Thursday:
A day spent completing socially distanced complex manual handling risk assessments in a care home.
The end result of which was a huge smile on Nicola’s face as we managed to find the perfect way to help her carers safely support her in and out of bed without needing to use hoists anymore. Dennis was also over the moon as well with his new specialist chair and low profiling bed.
Friday:
We published our new discussion paper on single handed care.
Single Handed Care: What Works?
By Deborah Harrison
Do you have experience as a housing OT? Do you think life as an independent OT could be the right mix for you? Then why not take those first steps and get in touch today....what’s stopping you?
I’d love to hear from you!
Email: matthew@inclusion.me.uk or ring 01892 320334