Waverley Healthcare

Property Adaptations

Ensuring that those with disabilities and their carers are able to lead independent, dignified lives is a key area of my work. I can assess for and oversee property adaptations that are tailored to the needs of the individual concerned. This ensures that my clients are fully able to access their property dependent on their own personal requirements. Assessments for property adaptations can take into account external access to the property, as well as requirements for rooms in the property – particularly bathrooms and kitchens.

Manual Handling

Since qualifying in 1979 as an Occupational Therapist, I have seen many changes and improvements to the techniques involved with lifting and hoisting patients. Today, the medical profession is very careful whilst moving people; extreme care is taken regarding pressure relief. Transferring and hoisting is as comfortable and dignified as possible.

I consult on the use of manual handling equipment, hoists and slings. Each individual is carefully and sensitively assessed, ensuring the correct procedure is chosen, instilling confidence in the person being transferred.

Furthermore, I demonstrate and instruct on the operation of slings, hoists and other techniques for manual equipment. I encourage carers and relatives to experience a hoist for themselves, to understand the needs of the person they are caring for. Having first hand experience themselves enables them to gain the confidence, comfort and dignity of those they are transferring.

I established Waverley Healthcare Ltd in 2011 to fill the growing need for experienced professionals in the field of Occupational Therapy. Prior to this, I was employed by the NHS in specialist hospitals and Social Services to assess individuals in emergency and ongoing care. This included patients in need of rehabilitation following trauma, surgery, amputation, strokes and disabilities of all kinds – from children to the elderly. Through my work in Social Services, I have been involved with the assessment of equipment provisions and property adaptations required by individuals to promote and maintain independence within their home environment.

Adopting a holistic approach to the individual’s needs and those of their carers, I take pride in being able to offer solutions to improve the quality of life for all my clients. I am able to provide bespoke, carefully tailored assessments for those in need of moving and handling, property adaptations, or other specialist care. These include physical disabilities of all kinds, learning difficulties and those with chronic or deteriorating conditions. I can offer advice and consultancy in addition to educating students, peers and other professionals in these areas.

I graduated from the Derby School of Occupational Therapy in 1979 and I am a Member of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (MRCOT). Furthermore, I am a member of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists Specialist Section, Independent Practice (RCOTSS IP) and the Royal College of Occupational Therapists Specialist Section, Housing (RCOTSS H). I am Health Care Professional Council (HCPC) registered and am Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS, formerly CRB) checked.