New advice line offers easier access to Occupational Therapy support for Children and Young People

The Occupational Therapy service for Children and Young People has launched a new advice line to make the service easier to access. The phone line allows parents, carers and professionals in Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan to get direct access to advice and support around helping children and young people develop everyday occupational tasks.

Anne Taplin, Head of Occupational Therapy for Children and Young People at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, explained: “Our goal is to make it easier for people to get support and to increase our reach. Now any parent or professional working with children in Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan can get occupational therapy support without needing to go through another healthcare professional.”

When you call the advice line you will speak directly to a Paediatric Occupational Therapist. The team specialises in helping children and young people participate and gain independence in daily activities such as dressing, settling down to sleep, toileting, using cutlery, focusing on tasks, helping you child feel ready to participate and more. They can give ideas and strategies on how your child can move to the next stage of developing a skill and give advice on accessing further support from the service itself or elsewhere.

Anne said: “Each child is different, so we will help you to think about what success looks like for your child. This will help you to celebrate the milestones along the way. We will think about the things that help your child learn new things and together we can help remove obstacles to occupational development by focusing on ways to make positive change.”

A parent who provided feedback on the advice line said: “The questions were all really relevant and insightful - it felt as though she [the Occupational Therapist] knew the children already. The advice and information she gave was enormously helpful.... I am sure we will all benefit hugely from this support.”

The team has also created helpful videos and web pages packed with hints and tips for parents, teachers and health and social care professionals working with children. They cover topics such as managing screen time, supporting your child with handwriting, preparing for high school and how your child uses their sense to regulate.

Anne said: “The advice line is one way we are seeking to develop resources that support and empower children, young people and families to participate in their life and maximize their independence. We recommend taking a look at our online resources to find out whether your question is answered here.”

You can reach the advice line on 029 2183 6888, available every Tuesday and Thursday from 12pm to 2pm.

Visit the online resources for the Occupational Therapy for Children and Young People service.