Support services and therapies
Introduction
Through its extensive network of experts and therapists, Sussex Health Care is able to offer its service users a wide range of therapies and other support services including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, hydrotherapy, aromatherapy, reflexology and other complementary therapies.
Physiotherapy
At Sussex Health Care we aim to provide a high standard of physiotherapy assessment and treatment for service users within our specialist services and we offer support assistance to families and staff.
Our approach is based on postural management to improve the physical condition of service users, reduce secondary complications and facilitate remaining functional ability.
Each service user has an assessment and periodic review of their individual needs. They are provided with an individual therapy programme that might include:
- Range of movement exercises
- Stretching
- Splint application and monitoring of orthosis
- Standing and walking using appropriate equipment
- Mat work
- Hydrotherapy
- Chest physiotherapy
We have close links with the district wheelchair and special seating services with in-house co-ordinated clinics, providing effective support for all the service users' wheelchair needs.
The Physiotherapy Team is lead by Catherine Parris, Head of Physiotherapy, Olanrewaju Ajayi, Senior Physiotherapist and Clare Dufty, Physiotherapist; and each home has a Physiotherapy Assistant attached.
For any enquiries about the physiotherapy services available to service users please contact Corrine Wallace, Head of Operational Care Services at corrine.wallace@sussexhealthcare.co.uk or by telephone on 01403 219 829.
Occupational therapy
At Sussex Health Care we aim to provide a high standard of occupational therapy assessment, treatment and evaluation of self-care, productivity and leisure for service users within our specialist services. The aims include:
- Facilitating individual growth and development
- Maintaining and/or improving mobility, postural control and skills required for activities of daily living
- Offering opportunities to increase social participation within the home and local environment
Occupational Therapists can offer a detailed assessment of an individual's level of function in their daily activities. Using observation, checklists and formal assessments, the occupational therapist is able to establish strengths and problem areas. An appropriate treatment programme with goals based on the service user's own needs can then be designed.
Occupational therapy can increase levels of independence and confidence and can promote self advocacy in young people with complex physical disabilities and learning disabilities.
These young people may experience a wide range of problems in the following areas:
- Motor development
- Cognitive function
- Communication skills
- Perceptual and vestibular skills
- Behaviour
Occupational Therapists can support the following:
- Self care skills: washing and dressing, toileting, equipment, transfers
- Eating and drinking: seating and positioning, equipment
- Mobility: postural management and specialist seating, equipment, driving skills, manual handling
- Social skills: communication, non-verbal skills, friendships
For any enquiries about the occupational therapy services available to service users please contact Corrine Wallace, Head of Operational Care Services at corrine.wallace@sussexhealthcare.co.uk or by telephone on 01403 219 829.
