This World OT Day our resident Occupational Therapist Caroline Searight has discussed the changes made over the last 6 months and the powerful impact that has been achieved.

The IPF is fortunate enough that our Client Services Manager Caroline is also a registered Occupational Therapist. Caroline supports our injured rugby players to increase their independence after an injury.

Over the last 6 months we have faced increasing challenges in understanding the needs of our injured players from a distance. Caroline has adapted and replaced travel time with virtual video calls with more injured players. These informal conversations have allowed us to support individuals with issues that may not have been obvious in a formal review, for example, how an injured player can get access to shopping or how we can improve access for individuals with a functional disability.

These changes have made a big impact in increasing the independence of the injured rugby players we support. We have also provided a platform for injured players to stay connected and motivated through online quizzes and virtual fitness sessions. We have seen invaluable peer support being provided in these sessions through individuals sharing experiences of what works.

The IPF has been able to adapt during these uncertain times and provide invaluable OT support for injured players virtually and provide a safe space for the players to get together as a community.

Read more about the importance of Occupational Therapy and how small changes make a big difference here.