Monday November 3rd 2025
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
A vital service which transforms lives in the Scottish Borders is being celebrated this week.
The region’s Health and Social Care Partnership is supporting this year’s Occupational Therapy Week (3–9 November) by recognising the essential role occupational therapists play in providing the right support at the right time, helping people across the Borders to live independently, stay well, and do the things that matter most to them.
Occupational therapy is vital to the delivery of integrated health and social care services. Whether it’s helping someone return to work after illness, supporting a child with developmental needs, or enabling an older adult to live safely at home, occupational therapy makes a real difference.
A focus on early intervention and prevention can also reduce the need for crisis care and long-term support. Timely input can prevent hospital admissions, enable safe discharge, and ease pressure on health, social care, and education services – leading to better outcomes and more sustainable services.
Just some examples of the way in which occupational therapists can help includes supporting older adults with home adaptations and equipment, helping people recovering from injury or illness regain essential life skills, and assisting those managing long-term conditions like arthritis or COPD. They can also play a key role in mental health recovery and in supporting children to thrive in school and social settings.
People who have used the Occupational Therapy service regularly have shared feedback about the life-changing impacts of the service. One family revealed how, within just five days of contacting the team, their father had grab rails and extra banisters installed – dramatically improving his mobility and safety at home.
Another expressed their thanks for support in getting a ramp fitted, enabling their relative to regain confidence and independence.
A third reflected on the significant and positive influence their occupational therapist had on their life, expressing deep gratitude for the care and professionalism shown.
Councillor David Parker, SBC’s executive member for Integrated Care and Support Services and chair of the Integration Joint Board, said: “Occupational therapy plays such a vital role in the delivery of our health and social care systems. Not only can it deliver better outcomes, it also reduces strain on services and contributes to a more sustainable future for all.
“Occupational therapy also transforms lives. By focusing on what matters most to each person, occupational therapists help people live well, stay independent, and reduce reliance on statutory services.
“Their work is essential to building healthier individuals and stronger, more resilient communities, and as a Partnership we would like to take this opportunity to thank all our hard-working occupational therapists for the dedication, compassion and expertise they bring to their roles every day.”
More information about occupational therapy can be found on the Royal College of Occupational Therapists website at: www.rcot.co.uk
Advice and information about accessing occupational therapy services through Scottish Borders Council is provided at What Matters Hub drop-in sessions and appointments or by calling 0300 100 1800 (Option 1): www.scotborders.gov.uk/whatmattershubs
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