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Hadamley

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Living with chronic illness

Occupational therapy and daily living

What occupational therapists do, how to get an assessment through the council, NHS or privately, and what to expect.

When to get urgent help

Call 999 for:

  • chest pain that is sudden and does not go away, or spreads to the arms, neck, jaw, stomach or back, or comes with sweating, sickness or breathlessness
  • any sign of a stroke: the face drops on one side, they cannot lift both arms, or speech is slurred. Even if it stops
  • severe difficulty breathing: gasping, choking or not able to get words out
  • swelling of the lips, tongue or throat after a possible allergic trigger

Contact NHS 111 or your GP the same day for:

  • a sudden, very painful joint that is hot, swollen or hard to move. It can be an infection, even without a temperature
  • new or worsening symptoms that worry you

Do not put new symptoms down to a condition you already have without getting them checked.

Call 999 Call NHS 111

What occupational therapists do

Occupational therapists (OTs) help you carry on with the everyday activities that matter to you, such as washing, dressing, cooking, getting in and out of bed, or getting back to work. They look at the task, your health and your home, and suggest changes, equipment or new ways of doing things.

Ways to get an OT assessment

Through the council

Council adult social care teams employ OTs who can assess your needs at home. This is often the route for equipment, minor adaptations such as grab rails, and larger changes funded through a Disabled Facilities Grant.

Through the NHS

Hospital and community health teams include OTs. You are usually referred by your GP or hospital team, often when you are leaving hospital or after a change in your condition.

Privately

Private OTs can often see you sooner. Check they are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Fees vary, so always confirm the cost in writing before you book.

What to expect at an assessment

  • A conversation about what you find hard and what you would like to do.
  • Watching you do some everyday tasks, if you are comfortable.
  • A look at your home layout, stairs, bathroom and entrances.
  • Recommendations, which may include equipment, adaptations or referrals.

Local services

Services that can help

Search and filter in Find Support
  • CouncilSelf-referral accepted

    Havering Adult Social Care Occupational Therapy

    Council OT assessments at home for equipment, minor adaptations and larger home changes.

    Area
    Havering (borough-wide)
    Fees
    Assessment is free. Some equipment and adaptations may be charged or means tested.
    • Home visit
    • Phone
    Last checked 5 October 2026

Page last updated 12 October 2026

Occupational therapy and daily living | Hadamley