Paediatric Occupational Therapy supports children and young people from birth to 18 years of age (or up to 19 years for those attending special schools) who have physical, sensory, developmental or learning difficulties.
Our occupational therapists work with children, families, carers, schools and other professionals to help children develop skills, increase independence and take part in everyday activities at home, school and in their community.
Specialist equipment
We can assess for and provide specialist equipment to help children participate safely and comfortably in daily life.
This may include:
- Specialist seating to support feeding and positioning
- Wheelchairs
- Bathing and showering aids
- Toilet aids
- Mobility equipment
Children who require complex wheelchair assessments are supported by a Children’s Wheelchair Clinical Specialist through the Trust Wheelchair Service.
Adaptations to the home
Occupational therapists can recommend changes to a child’s home to improve safety, accessibility and independence.
This may include both minor and major adaptations and is delivered in partnership with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) and Housing Associations.
Support in schools
We work closely with schools to help children participate in learning and school life.
Support may include:
- Assessing a child’s needs in school
- Providing advice and strategies for the classroom
- Training and guidance for school staff
- School Access Studies for children with disabilities attending mainstream schools
Occupational therapists also provide services to special schools across the Trust, working closely with the Education Authority and school staff.
Support for parents and carers
We work alongside parents and carers to help them understand their child’s needs and develop practical strategies to support them at home.
Parent workshops are offered regularly and provide information, advice and opportunities to learn from experienced professionals.
Pre-school children
Assessment and treatment for pre-school children are provided in clinic settings, helping children develop the skills needed for everyday activities and future learning.
Support for children with complex health needs
Our specialist occupational therapists support children with complex health needs and provide advice, training and support to parents, carers and other professionals.
They also play an important role in planning a child’s discharge from hospital and ensuring appropriate support is in place at home.
Neonatal Occupational Therapy
Our Neonatal Clinical Specialist Occupational Therapist supports babies receiving care in the Neonatal Unit.
This includes:
- Assessment and treatment
- Advice and support for parents and carers
- Planning for discharge home
- Follow-up support after leaving hospital
Splinting and orthotics
Specialist occupational therapists run clinics across the Trust for children who may benefit from upper limb splinting.
Splints can help improve function, support positioning and manage specific physical difficulties.
Assistive technology and specialist clinics
The Paediatric Occupational Therapy Service also provides:
- Assistive technology assessments and support
- Input to child development clinics
We work with health, education and social care professionals to support children and families
Our goal is to help every child achieve their potential, participate in everyday activities and become as independent as possible.
How to contact us
Antrim
- Telephone: 028 9441 5725
Ballycastle
- Telephone: 028 2766 1349
Ballymena
- Telephone: 028 2563 5624 or 028 2563 5625
Ballymoney
- Telephone: 028 2766 1349
Carrickfergus
- Telephone: 028 9335 3745
Coleraine
- Telephone: 028 2766 1349
Cookstown
- Telephone: 028 7936 5080
Larne
- Telephone: 028 9335 3745
Magherafelt
- Telephone: 028 7936 5080
Newtownabbey
- Telephone: 028 9335 3745
Opening hours
Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5:00pm.