Children's Occupational Therapy
The service supports children and young people with a wide range of needs, who are experiencing difficulties with daily life activities.
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Contents
Overview
The Children's Occupational Therapy (COT) service is provided by South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust.
The service supports children and young people with a wide range of needs, who are experiencing difficulties with activities such as:
- getting washed and dressed
- using cutlery
- handwriting
- being able to enjoy play and leisure activities
The service can help to understand what the potential barriers may be to taking part in these activities.
They work with parents / carers, school staff and other professionals involved in your child's care to help to achieve the best outcomes.
Support available
The service provides assessments to help understand why activities are difficult.
The service can:
- give advice
- offer a telephone or video consultation
- provide therapy to support the child or young person to work towards, or to be able to achieve their goal
The service may be asked to provide assessment information and recommendations as part of the Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) process.
They may also be involved in EHCP reviews and Early Help Plans.
For information about specialist equipment for your home or adaptations, see Occupational Therapy Service.
Who can access the service
Children and young people from birth until their 18th birthday, who:
- live in South Tyneside
- are registered with a GP in South Tyneside
- may go to a mainstream, special school or resource base in South Tyneside
How to access the service
Initial referrals to the service must be made by a health professional.
Once a child / young person is known to the service, parents and carers can make a direct request for support.
Referrals can be completed using our referral form or through a clinic letter, following consent from parents / carers.
Once a referral is received, parents / carers will be contacted to discuss the main area of concern, and to decide the best approach.