Spring 2025
I’m Ayesha. I’ve been an Occupational Therapist (OT) for over 21 years. I currently specialise in moving and handling within Adult Social Care.
My job is about helping people with mobility challenges stay independent.
Occupational therapy helps people live their lives to the fullest. That could be getting out of bed, making a meal, going to work, or simply moving around the house, we provide the support and tools needed to make everyday
activities possible.
In Adult Social Care, our focus is on long-term independence, supporting individuals from 18 to over 100 years old.
In Bexley, our teams—including Triage, Specialist Moving and Handling, Reablement and Community Support—work together to help people stay as independent as possible.
Sometimes, a small change, like adding rails to a toilet, can make a huge difference. Other times, we introduce more specialist equipment, like hoists, to help clients move safely and maintain their dignity.
Part of my role is looking ahead. I assess not just a client’s current mobility but how it may change over time.
Even though I spend a lot of time working independently, teamwork is key. I regularly collaborate with social workers, physiotherapists and care agencies to find the best solutions for clients.
An example was a recent case involving a client recovering from a stroke who was struggling with mobility and was unhappy with the hoist he had been using. Working with a physiotherapist, we trialled a new standing hoist designed for rehabilitation. It provided better support, reduced strain on his carers and—most importantly—helped him feel more in control.
Seeing how much of a difference it made to his confidence and comfort was incredibly rewarding.
Every day in this job is different and that is what makes it so exciting. I love solving problems, thinking creatively and knowing that the work I do helps people maintain their dignity and independence. I am grateful to be part of such a supportive team in Bexley and I look forward to continuing to make a difference in people’s lives.