Independent living and occupational therapy (OT)

These pages are about Adult Occupational Therapy (OT) services.

For children's OT services, visit the Southend-on-Sea City Council website.

What we do

We support people with:

• physical disabilities
• long-term health conditions

Our aim is to help you:

• live independently
• stay safe at home for as long as possible

If you are finding daily life difficult, support is available.

Equipment and home adaptations

Equipment and changes to your home can help you stay independent.

You may benefit if you:

• find it difficult to wash or bathe
• struggle using stairs
• feel unsafe at home
• care for someone who feels unsafe

Examples of equipment

• bath boards
• raised toilet seats or commodes
• grab rails

Getting equipment yourself

You can buy equipment:

• from local shops
• online

Online advice: AskSARA

You can use AskSARA,an online self-help tool.

It will:

1. ask questions about your needs
2. provide a personalised report

The report includes:

• advice to help you stay independent
• suggested equipment and where to buy it
• useful contacts
• an option to save or share your report

Other useful websites

• Living Made Easy - guides to choosing equipment
• Carers UK - advice on equipment and support

Occupational therapy (OT) assessment

If your needs are more complex, you may need an OT assessment.

An occupational therapist will help you:

• find practical ways to manage daily tasks
• stay independent

They can help with

• personal care (washing, dressing, using the toilet)
• using stairs
• getting around your home and community

You can involve:

• family
• friends
• carers

Possible solutions

Following your assessment, we may recommend:

Small changes

• grab rails
• raising chairs or beds

Larger equipment

• hoists
• specialist equipment

Home adaptations

• ramps
• wet rooms

Other assessments

• for walking aids: ask your GP for a referral to physiotherapy
• for independent therapists: visit the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT)

How to apply

You can request support by:

• using our online portal
• calling: 01702 215008

Please tell us if you have already used AskSARA.

Grants and funding

You may be able to apply for a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG).

Find more information on the Council website.

Other advice

• for property repairs: contact your landlord or housing provider
• for help with forms (for example, benefits or Blue Badge): contact Citizens Advice
• for mobility equipment: contact your GP

Equipment service

If you have equipment on loan from the Council and:

• it is broken or damaged
• you are moving home
• you no longer need it

You can:

• request a collection using the online form

Or return it in person