The Princess Royal is Patron of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, and during her visit chatted to patients and occupational therapy staff from North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust (NCIC) about the new facilities. Accompanied by the Lord Lieutenant Alexander Scott, she met with the Trust’s Chair, Steven Morgan, and Chief Executive, Lyn Simpson.
Joni Mitchell, the Trust’s head of Occupational Therapy, escorted The Princess Royal as she met occupational therapists who have been developing an improved pathway to support patients rehabilitate and recover from a stroke, and with patients undergoing therapy in the facilities that are part of the new investment. These include a therapy gym, a courtyard with access to a challenge path, and a kitchen to prepare patients for returning home after a stay in hospital.
Her Royal Highness was then introduced to the Trust’s first occupational therapy apprentices, and University of Cumbria OT students on leadership placements, as she heard about the Trust’s work to build a more sustainable occupational therapy workforce.
She unveiled the plaque, and was invited to sign the visitor book previously signed by The Queen Mother when she first opened West Cumberland Hospital in 1964, and King Charles III when he visited the hospital in 2010.
Dr Sarah Elliott, associate director of AHPs at NCIC, said: “We hope we have demonstrated that despite the geographical challenges of being a diverse rural and coastal organisation, NCIC continues to develop and innovate evidence-based practice, allowing individuals to start well, live well, and age well.”
Steve Ford, Chief Executive of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, said: “Today, at West Cumberland Hospital, we’ve seen a truly excellent example of the achievements and value of occupational therapy in the integrated delivery of health and community care. The teams here are working across acute and community services to improve the quality of patient care. It means they’re preventing often lengthy hospital admissions, and reducing pressure on services. They have shown us how – within integrated health and care systems – occupational therapists can deliver better outcomes, reduce strain on health and social care resources, and create a more sustainable system for all.”