My name is Joanne. I am an Occupational Therapy Assistant Practitioner with NHS Ayrshire & Arran. I came to Scotland while working with a Ferry company called Seacat. A sixth month secondment turned out to be 24 years, and I have settled here with husband and two children.
In 2002 I decide I wanted to do something completely different so I went to Ayr College and completed my HNC in Childcare & Education. I worked in various nurseries, and with Children who had complex support needs in a variety of settings.
In 2006 I began working in the NHS with Childsmile, which is a Nation Wide Programme that promotes Good Oral Health in children from Birth to P7, providing fluoride varnishing twice a year in schools across Ayrshire. The role of Oral Health Practitioner gave me the opportunity to gain experience supporting families, and working closely with other health professionals, such as School Nurse, Head Teachers and Social Work.
While on reassignment during Covid I got chatting to an Occupational Therapist, who told me about her job which really appealed to me. She suggested that I apply for an Assistant Practitioner role and thought my previous experience would stand me in good stead.
I now work in a Team called “Staying Ahead of the Curve”. We visit people in their homes who might be beginning to experience difficulties with daily activities, such as cooking, shopping, bathing or their mobility may be starting to decline. Our early intervention team, aim to support people to live satisfying and healthy lives as they age.
What I love most about the job is helping to support individuals so they stay as independent as possible in their own homes, and lead a fulfilled life doing the things they enjoy.
I enjoy getting to know the person and not being constrained by time. We work autonomously and can use our judgment when planning return visits if we feel it is required.
It is reassuring to know that you always have the support of the wider Occupational Therapy Team, and there is a wealth of experience and knowledge that you can tap into for support. Colleagues are always happy to offer help and joint visits if required.
There is also lots of personal development opportunities through training courses and 1:1 guidance with your Clinical & Line manager
I absolutely love my job and I am lucky to do something I enjoy so much.