Occupational Therapy Week Puts Spotlight On Profession

LAWYERS at a major national law firm are highlighting the work of a Solihull based occupational therapy team as part of Occupational Therapy Week, which runs from 7 to 11 November.

Members of the specialist injury team at Irwin Mitchell Solicitors have praised the work of ARMS, the Assessment and Rehabilitation Management Service in Solihull.

The law firm, who provides expert legal advice to children and adults who have suffered serious injury, often work closely with ARMS, who offer specialist advice from occupational therapists who are highly experienced in dealing with disability and health related issues.

This can include help with and training focussed upon daily activities such as bathing, dressing and eating, advice on adapting homes or workplaces to meet disability needs, help accessing equipment such as mobility aids, wheelchairs and artificial limbs and confidence building activities for adults and children.

Caroline Stokes, an Associate in the Medical Law and Patient Rights team at Irwin Mitchell, said: “ARMS make a huge difference to the lives of people who have suffered serious injuries, helping them to get their lives back on track.

“For our clients who have often suffered life changing injuries and now require adaptations to their homes or specialised equipment, the prospect of returning to an independent lifestyle and all that that entails can be very daunting.

“ARMS provides bespoke advice and support every step of the way, and we are proud that this nationally-recognised expertise is available right here in Solihull.”

ARMS has a network of occupational therapists across the UK who provide both specialist and generalist rehabilitation.

Mike Cowan-Jones, Director said: “When someone has suffered life changing injuries either as the result of a road traffic accident or as the victim of a medical accident, the return to independent living can be a long and difficult journey. Occupational therapy is about working with clients and their families to focus on regaining the independence that has been lost and raising people’s quality of life as a result.”

Irwin Mitchell’s Birmingham office employs an Occupational Therapist, Helena Bryant to provide unique and invaluable support to clients and their families in the early stages of their recovery. Helena’s role will often involve consulting organisations such as ARMS to access the specialist advice and support that clients require.

Irwin Mitchell also organises regular occupational therapy information clinics and training sessions for members of the special interest groups who work with clients and families involved in litigation.

In recognition of their unique client-focused approach, Irwin Mitchell won the Claimant Solicitor of the Year award in 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011 at the national Rehabilitation First Awards.

Mike said: “It is excellent for us to have this link with Irwin Mitchell, a firm with such wide-ranging expertise in supporting people who have experienced traumatic injuries. “They are a trusted partner for us because we know they have the client’s best interests at heart.”