The Occupational Therapist is responsible for the assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of equipment provision for clients in their own home. Advice can also be provided on private purchase of equipment.

Equipment provided by Occupational Therapists is aimed at helping to improve independence, function and safety, to maximise quality of life and ease management for family and carers. The issue of appropriate equipment is based on an assessment of the clients’ needs, government legislation, health and safety issues, best practice guidelines and the application of local service criteria.

Equipment is provided on loan and should be returned to the relevant Trust when no longer required.

Equipment can be issued for the following areas of activity:

• Seating/ Pressure relief
• Toileting
• Bathing
• General mobility/ Stairs/ Wheelchairs/ Car transfers
• Bed mobility
• Domestic activities
• Feeding
• Dressing

This list is not exhaustive and may vary between Trusts.

The Occupational Therapist may also assess for the provision of minor/major home adaptations guided by the Northern Ireland Housing Order, Health and Safety Standards and in agreement with Housing Agencies. This can include: Grab-rails, stair rails, ground floor toilets, lifts, showers etc.

Safety Checks

Are necessary when electrical equipment is supplied.

General Information

• The Occupational Therapy staff will demonstrate, assess and issue instructions on the safe use of equipment.
• It is the responsibility of the client/carer to ensure that the equipment is treated with care, used solely by the client and for the purpose it was supplied.
• Contact details will be given in the event of any problems with the equipment.

Return of Equipment

Equipment should be returned to the Occupational Therapy Department when no longer required to ensure that resources are available to meet the needs of future clients. To return equipment please contact the local Occupational Therapy Department and give the following details;

• Contact name.
• Telephone number.
• Address where equipment is to be collected from.
• List of equipment to be collected.
• Any special arrangements or instructions.