Neighbourhood Health Occupational Therapy Service

What is this service?

We are working to enhance and add value to current local physical activity offers, supporting primary prevention of Hypertension (HTN) and Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) at a neighbourhood level.

What we are doing?
• Upskilling local physical activity organisations by increasing knowledge and support around HTN that can then directly support this cohort of individuals.
• Hosting community days to bring together physical activity and community services.
• Upskill social prescribers to increase knowledge, confidence, and practical skills into their practice.
• Work with individuals who are deemed ‘furthest away from sport and physical activity’ – this means working with people who often face barriers and challenges accessing services and are often unable to find provision suitable for their needs.
• Connect people away from GP surgeries, reducing the reliance and need on primary services.

How can we help your patients?
As Occupational Therapists we focus on how people manage their daily activities, routines and habits, and supports them to make practical changes that improve health and independence by:
• Providing 1:1 assessment of how an individual’s daily life, routines, and environment impact their health, identify levels of support and goal setting.
• Support patients to build physical activity into everyday tasks and routines, rather than relying solely on structured exercise.
• Supporting patients overcome barriers such as pain, fatigue, mental health challenges, or complex social circumstances.
• Grade and adapt activities that are appropriate to function, mobility or health conditions.
• Promote self-management and independence, reducing reliance on services over time.
• Connect patients to local community and physical activity services to support ongoing engagement

Who can we support?
• People with / at risk of HTN and/or CVD
• And experience barriers to physical activity (e.g. fatigue, chronic pain, anxiety, social isolation, limited understanding to make lifestyle changes).
• May have more complex needs such as long-term conditions, mental health needs, learning disabilities or autism, physical disabilities or frequent primary care use.

How to refer
If you have any residents that would be appropriate for this service, please complete a referral form at:
www.sportforconfidence.com/referral
Any questions or to discuss first, please contact: jamie@sportforconfidence.com

This has been developed in line with the NHS Long Term Plan, which highlights the importance of tackling health inequalities, strengthening prevention, and supporting people closer to home through joined-up community care.

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When does this take place?

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