Celebrating Occupational Therapy Week at SWLSTG!
This week, we are thrilled to celebrate Occupational Therapy Week, an opportunity to recognise and appreciate the invaluable contributions of our occupational therapy team at SWLSTG.
Occupational therapists play a crucial role in supporting individuals with mental health challenges, helping them to engage in meaningful activities that enhance their wellbeing and quality of life.
Join us as Melissa and David share more about their inspiring roles.
Melissa Chambers, Occupational Therapist
Q. Could you share a little about your role at the Trust and how long you've been with us? What does your work involve?
"I’ve been with the Trust for over five years now, starting out as an activity worker in the Shaftesbury Clinic within Forensic Services. I completed the OT apprenticeship programme in September 2024 and transitioned into an occupational therapy role on Aquarius Ward within our inpatient CAMHS service.
"As an occupational therapist, my focus is on helping young people engage in meaningful activities that support their wellbeing. On the ward, I support them with things such as schoolwork, volunteering, and work experience; leisure activities, such as baking, arts and crafts, music and exercise; and essential self-care routines, from personal hygiene to building healthy sleep habits.”
Q. Can you share a memorable experience from your time working here?
"One of my favourite memories from working in the Forensic Service was helping to host the 'Oscars’ – a special ceremony celebrating the achievements of our patients, staff and partners.
"The event was a wonderful way to honour the dedication patients showed toward their recovery, as well as the compassion and support of the Shaftesbury staff. It was always such a joyful and uplifting day that everyone looked forward to, especially our patients!"
Q. What do you enjoy most about your role? What is the most rewarding part?
"I love being able to make a difference in someone’s life, even in small ways. Many of the people we work with have been through profound challenges and watching them heal and move forward is both inspiring and incredibly rewarding for me."
Q. What advice would you give to someone just starting out in the profession?
"Remember that every day is a chance to learn. You won’t get everything right all the time, but by staying open to new knowledge, reflecting on your experiences, and adapting as you go, you’ll find fulfilment and success in your career."
Q. How do you ensure your daily practices contribute to high standards of patient safety and quality care?
"To maintain high standards of care, I believe it's essential to regularly check in with yourself and honestly evaluate the care you're providing. Supervision is also key – it’s a valuable space to discuss challenging cases and ensure safe, effective practices.
"Our Trust is filled with experienced OTs, and I find that drawing on their knowledge and expertise really helps us provide the best possible care in our profession!"
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David Heasman, Lead Occupational Therapist, Cognition & Mental Health in Ageing
Q. Could you share a bit about your role, how long you’ve been with the Trust, and what your responsibilities involve?
"I’ve been with the Trust since 1995, starting out with working-age adults across both community and inpatient settings. After completing my master’s degree, I took on the role of Lead OT for Practice Development in 2006—a position I now hold one day a week alongside my role as Lead OT for CMHA.
“In my Lead OT for CMHA role, I work clinically with the Kingston Memory Assessment Service, conducting home visits for individuals recently diagnosed with dementia. During these visits, I assess how dementia and age-related changes impact daily life, identify potential risks, and recommend adaptations to support patients in safely staying at home.
"I also supervise and provide professional guidance to CMHA OTs across wards, community teams and care home services. My goal is to help our OTs stay current and deliver effective, high-quality care for our patients and their families."
Q. Can you share a memorable experience from your time working here?
"About a year ago, I visited a 103-year-old woman who had a piano in her lounge. When I commented on it, she mentioned that she still played, and when I asked if she'd play a piece for me, she did – quite beautifully. It was such a special moment."
Q. What do you enjoy most about your role, and what do you find most rewarding?
"I find older individuals and their families endlessly fascinating, and it's a true privilege to be able to provide support and practical assistance to those who need it most."
Q. What advice would you give others in the profession?
"Keep a healthy balance by focusing on parts of the job that recharge you. Take care of your mental health, be mindful of colleagues who may be under stress, and extend to them the same care and compassion that you offer to patients."
Q. How do you ensure that your daily practices contribute to high standards of patient safety and quality care?
"I focus on staying organised so I can manage my time effectively. I also chair the Older People OT Forum, where we make the most of our time together by encouraging each other and sharing best practices."
