Occupational Therapists from across Warrington’s integrated health and social care services are coming together to celebrate World Occupational Therapy Day on 27 October 2026, recognising the vital role they play in helping people live independent, fulfilling lives.
This year’s theme, “Participation Matters”, highlights the importance of enabling people to take part in the activities, roles and routines that matter most to them. Occupational Therapists (OTs) work with people of all ages who may be living with illness, injury, disability or long-term health conditions, helping them overcome barriers, maintain independence and improve their overall wellbeing.
Across Warrington, Occupational Therapists work collaboratively in a wide range of settings, including:
- Assisted Living Services for adults and children
- Intermediate Care Services
- Urgent Community Response and community rehabilitation services
- Hospital discharge and reablement pathways
- Housing, adaptations, assistive technology and community-based support services
Through practical support, rehabilitation, specialist equipment, home adaptations and expert advice, Occupational Therapists help individuals manage the impact of illness and disability, avoid unnecessary hospital admissions, return home safely and continue living independently within their communities.
Supporting independence through partnership working
A key example of Warrington’s integrated approach is the development of the One Front Door Model, where Assisted Living Services work alongside social work professionals, Sensory and Telecare services, Living Well and Talking Points.
The model enables people to have direct conversations with the most appropriate professionals when they first make contact, helping them access community resources quickly and ensuring referrals are directed to the right service from the outset.
Assisted Living Services contribute a Senior Occupational Therapist and Community Care Worker into the hub each day, providing rapid assessments for people with less complex needs and helping individuals access support sooner, while enabling specialist services to focus on those requiring more comprehensive assessments.
World Occupational Therapy Day activities
To mark World Occupational Therapy Day, a programme of activities will take place to showcase the profession and the positive impact Occupational Therapists have on local people.
Senior leaders and occupational therapy representatives from across services will participate in a strengths, opportunities, aspirations and results (SOAR) masterclass, highlighting how occupational therapy teams are making a difference across Warrington while exploring future opportunities for the profession.
Talking Points visits
Occupational Therapists will be visiting local Talking Points sessions as part of efforts to engage with communities, promote the benefits of occupational therapy and raise awareness of the support available through local services.
Sessions will take place at The Living Well Hub on Market Street on Monday 2 November 2026 from 9.30am to 3.30pm, and at Birchwood Talking Points, Birchwood shopping centre WA3 7PG on Wednesday 4 November from 1pm to 3pm.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to take part in the OT Aids and Adaptations Challenge, testing their knowledge of specialist equipment and entering a prize draw.
Making a Difference Every Day
The impact of Occupational Therapy is best reflected in the experiences of the people who benefit from the service.
One service user said: “Since receiving an MND diagnosis, we have had support from the Urgent Response and Social Services teams. Tina, the Occupational Therapist, has been unfailingly helpful, providing equipment, advice and support when we needed it most. She is knowledgeable, responsive and compassionate, and we could not have received better care from her and the wider team.”
Another service users daughter said: “The occupational therapist quickly identified the problem and found a simple solution. Mum can now get in and out of bed safely, and it’s helped her stay independent in her own home.”
Celebrating Occupational Therapists
Councillor Tony Higgins, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Social Care, said: “Occupational Therapists make a real difference to people’s lives, often at some of their most challenging times. Whether helping someone return home safely after a hospital stay, supporting a child to reach their potential or enabling an older person to remain independent, their impact cannot be overstated.
“On World Occupational Therapy Day, we celebrate the dedication of our Occupational Therapy teams and the vital support they provide to residents and families across Warrington. Their work truly demonstrates how participation, independence and wellbeing go hand in hand.”
World Occupational Therapy Day provides an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the valuable contribution Occupational Therapists make every day. Through their expertise, compassion and commitment, they help people remain independent, stay connected to their communities and participate in the activities that give life meaning.
Thinking about a career in Occupational Therapy?
Occupational Therapists play a vital role in helping people of all ages overcome challenges, maintain their independence and live fulfilling lives. If you’re interested in a rewarding career where no two days are the same, come and speak to our team at one of our Talking Points sessions to learn more about the profession and the different routes into becoming an Occupational Therapist.
Find out more at: Routes into Occupational Therapy
