Advocacy and access
Help explaining your needs, communicating with services and finding a practical way forward.
SUPPORTING EVERYDAY LIFE, ONE STEP AT A TIME
Occupational Therapy & Independent Living
Supporting independence. Overcoming barriers. Empowering our community.
At Lavender Hope CIC, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to take part in everyday life and access the support that matters to them.
Our community based occupational therapy support is provided by a qualified, HCPC registered Occupational Therapist. You can enquire about practical strategies, advocacy and support with everyday challenges.
ENQUIRIES WELCOME NOW
How we can help
Sometimes accessing services or managing everyday responsibilities can feel overwhelming. An initial conversation can help us understand what matters to you and whether occupational therapy support may be suitable.
Everyday strategies
Thinking together about barriers to daily activities, independence and participation.
The right next step
Signposting or professional referral when another service or specialist assessment is more appropriate.
Support is discussed individually. Availability, suitability and any costs are confirmed before an appointment is arranged.
WORK ALREADY DONE
Occupational Therapy experience in our community
Since qualifying in 2014, our Occupational Therapist has used her professional skills within formal services and to support children, young people, adults and families locally.
- Advocacy with everyday issues, including household bills and communication with enforcement agents.
- Referrals to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services when specialist support was needed.
- Occupational therapy input for Blue Badge applications and greater independence.
- Support for asylum seeking families with school admissions and communication with schools.
- Professional input and advocacy alongside residents at social services meetings.
- Attending schools with families to help them explain their needs and access appropriate support.
- Practical help with housing, boilers, clothing and other essential needs.
- GAI referrals and signposting to suitable services and organisations.
- Working with Community TechAid to help local residents access laptops and digital equipment.
Each person’s situation is different. We listen first, then consider what practical support or further referral could be helpful.
IN DEVELOPMENT
Neurodivergence support
We are developing support for children, young people and adults with ADHD, autism and related differences. This is a future service, so screening and appointments for this programme are not being offered yet.
What we hope to offer
- Initial screening with appropriate recognised tools
- Understanding sensory, organisational and everyday functioning difficulties
- Guidance about specialist assessment routes, including NHS Right to Choose where appropriate
- Practical strategies for participation and independence
Screening is not a diagnosis. Eligibility for an NHS assessment route depends on individual circumstances and the receiving service.
Read NHS information about autism assessment and Right to ChooseCOMING SOON
Skills for Life
We are developing a practical, occupational therapy informed programme for people preparing for greater independence, initially focusing on young people with SEND and neurodivergent needs.
- Cooking, meal preparation and household routines
- Personal care and everyday organisation
- Budgeting and managing money
- Independent travel and community safety
- Communication, self advocacy and social participation
- Preparation for education, work and adult life
Activities would be shaped around individual goals and real life experiences. Dates, eligibility and costs will be shared once the programme is ready.
Other ideas we hope to explore
Alongside Skills for Life, Lavender Hope hopes to explore peer and activity groups, practical sensory strategies for families, a suitable sensory space, and support for older adults. Our Occupational Therapist’s ongoing Master’s studies in Sensory Integration may help inform this work.
These ideas would need community involvement, appropriate partnerships, resources and safeguarding before they could become services.
OUR APPROACH
Person centred. Practical. Inclusive.
We look beyond a diagnosis or disability to understand each person’s strengths, goals and everyday challenges.
We aim to work alongside individuals, families, professionals and community organisations, promoting choice, dignity and meaningful participation. We do not replace statutory or specialist services.
LEARN MORE
What does an occupational therapist do?
Occupational therapists help people participate in the activities they need, want and enjoy doing. They work in health services and also in education, housing, charities and independent practice.
About occupational therapy · RCOT Independent practice · RCOT How to check professional registration · HCPC
Watch short introductions to occupational therapy
GET IN TOUCH
Ask about Occupational Therapy support
Tell us how to contact you and the broad type of support you want to discuss. We will respond to talk through what may be suitable.
For urgent health concerns, use the appropriate NHS service. This form is for enquiries and is not monitored as an emergency service. Read our privacy information. You can also email Lavender Hope or call 020 8674 4803.