Blog

Occupational Therapy for Learning Disabilities

Occupational therapy (OT) plays an instrumental role in assisting people with a learning disability—neurological variations that influence how the brain

Occupational Therapy for Autism

Occupational therapy (OT) is a cornerstone of support for autistic people, providing essential services that allow them to bridge the

Building a Healthier Future: From Hospital to Community

The focus on transitioning from a hospital-centric healthcare model to a community-based care-at-home model aims to improve health outcomes and

The Commissioning Cycle in Social Care

In social care, commissioning involves the planning, agreement, and oversight of services, ensuring they adequately address the needs of the

Identifying the Key Signs of Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity challenges the traditional medical model of disability, which views neurological differences as 'deficits' or 'disorders' that need to be

Human Rights in Mind When Discharge Planning

Integrating human rights and discharge planning is essential to uphold people's dignity, autonomy, and well-being. A human rights-based approach to

NICE Quality Standards in Social and Health Care in the UK

NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) was established as a special health authority on April 1st, 1999, to

Supporting People with PERMA Model of Wellbeing

The PERMA Model of Wellbeing is a groundbreaking psychological framework developed by the esteemed psychologist Martin Seligman. This model, which

Are People Involved in Their Care?

True participation is not merely passive involvement but actively empowering people in decision-making processes. How does active participation influence the

Building Healthier Communities: The Power of Place-Based Approach

In a world that often measures success by individual achievement, the collective strength of communities is frequently overlooked. Yet, within

Supporting Commissioners in Reducing NHS Waiting Lists

Collaboration requires an environment where people receiving support can actively participate in their care plans, enabling them to make positive

Speech Therapy and Its Impact

Speech therapy is a dynamic and evolving field that provides essential support to people with communication, eating, drinking, and swallowing

Trauma-Informed Practice: The Stories We Write About People and How They Shape Their Recovery

George has built an impressive career as a specialist clinical practitioner, practice lead and trainer, focusing on managing and reducing high-risk behaviours of concern -including self-injury, self-harm and aggression to others. Through collaborative efforts with the therapy team, services, and across the organisation, Georgina has developed her role at Catalyst, finding ways to promote best practices in reducing restrictions and positive approaches to risk-taking. She shares real-life examples of how reducing restrictive practices is recognised as essential for improving well-being and quality of life and as an evidence-based approach to reducing behaviour of concern....

Specialist’s Corner: How Multimedia Is Transforming Support for People with Learning Disabilities and Autism

At Leaf Complex Care, multimedia is being used in powerful, personalised ways to enhance the lives of people with learning disabilities and autism. We spoke to Ben Andrew, PBS Coach and specialist in multimedia advocacy, about how these creative tools are shaping the future of support....

Key Factors in Adequately Assessing and Evaluating Autistic People

With varied experiences across different spheres and career paths, Ophelia was introduced to the field of occupational therapy by another occupational therapist. With her intuitive nature and a deep desire to support others, she found opportunities to volunteer in various occupational therapy services, gaining insight into the field's vast scope. She realised that this was her true vocation, enabling her to build a career aligning with her skillset while supporting people when they need it most. Join us as we explore Ophelia’s role and approach to therapy, grounded in evidence and driven by compassion....

How Intensive Interaction Helps Build Connections

Jodee’s career beginnings were in teaching and education, but her path shifted toward care when her passion for speech and language therapy was sparked by her eldest son, who is autistic. Jodee, who also is also autistic, found that her mental health needs made her previous work challenging, as the support she required was often lacking. Joining Catalyst Care Group became the turning point she needed—a place where people are truly recognised and valued for who they are. In the opening article, Jodee shares valuable insights into reframing how we communicate with the neurodivergent people we support, explaining how she brings this approach to life....

The Holistic Model of Occupational Therapy

Building Better Care: The Journey Towards Least-Restrictive Practices

Getting the Right Support in Place: Communication Care Plans That Work

Jodee leads the Communication Care Planning training for all care coordinators within our organisation. The training is aimed primarily at care coordinators because many are responsible for developing people’s care plans and ensuring their implementation by the support workers. Care coordinators play an essential role in maintaining the smooth running of the services, acting as mediators between the people we support and their care team. Their role involves ensuring that everyone feels supported in their responsibilities for meeting the needs of the people in our care....