Occupational Therapy Week runs from 3rd to 9th November 2025, celebrating the vital role that occupational therapists (OTs) play across health, social care and wider society.
This year’s theme, “Right Support, Right Time: Unlocking the Power of OT,” puts a spotlight on the importance of prevention-focused care, helping people stay well and independent for longer, and reducing the need for crisis interventions.
Within the Adult Social Care team at Westmorland and Furness Council, Occupational Therapists (or OTs), Social Care Workers and Rehabilitation Officers for Visual Impairment, work every day to enable residents to live the lives they want to lead, safely, independently, and with dignity.
As we age, or when living with illness, disability or recovering from injury, everyday activities that many take for granted, like washing, dressing, eating, sleeping or simply getting around, can become difficult or even impossible. Occupational therapists assess each person’s unique needs and provide tailored advice, solutions and support. This could include specialist equipment, home adaptations or guidance to help individuals continue doing the things they need, want, or love to do, whether that’s working, studying, caring for a loved one, or pursuing hobbies and social activities.
Residents are typically referred to occupational therapy through health or social care professionals, and once involved, OTs work collaboratively with individuals and families to create practical, person-centred solutions.
Occupational therapy is not just about home visits and assessments, it’s also about proactive, innovative tools that help people take control of their independence before a crisis arises.
Westmorland and Furness Council has two digital prevention-focused resources:
- The Virtual House – an interactive online experience where residents can explore different rooms and discover practical mobility, safety and communication aids in real-life settings. It’s a great way to learn what’s available and where to buy it.
- AskSara – a free, easy-to-use online tool that offers personalised advice and equipment recommendations based on a short assessment. Whether it’s help with bathing, preparing meals, or getting dressed, AskSara helps people find the right support quickly.
Councillor Patricia Bell, Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Care at Westmorland and Furness Council, said: “Occupational Therapy Week is a chance for us to recognise the hard work done by occupational therapists and the profound difference they make every day to residents, not just by responding to need, but by helping prevent it in the first place. Their work supports the health and wellbeing of individuals, reduces pressure on care services, and enables people to live well, for longer.”
Cath Whalley, Director of Adult Social Care at Westmorland and Furness Council said: "Occupational Therapy Week is also a chance to recognise and celebrate occupational therapy as a fulfilling career for anyone who wants to make a real difference in people’s lives."