Mrs Amanda Hunter BSc MSc MRCOT is an independent occupational therapist (OT) and advanced practitioner in sensory integration, children and young people.
What is occupational therapy?
Occupational therapy (OT) helps a child or young person manage or cope with a difficulty or disability.
OT aims to increase function and independence by improving skills or teaching new ways of carrying out tasks such as self-care skills (dressing, feeding, personal care), play, school and work activities.
Assessment and support
An assessment helps parents, carers, and school/college understand the needs of a child or young person.
The assessment can provide evidence for diagnosis, extra help, or referrals to other services.
The report includes advice and recommendations. Recommendations may include advice on motor skills, handwriting, or changes to the classroom, the routine, or how they learn.
Most children or young people will be given a programme to follow at home and school to improve their skills.
The impact on each person varies. Sometimes it is immediate, but for others it takes longer, especially if their needs are complex.
Small steps are used to help a child or young person make progress at the right pace and level for them. This helps their confidence and self-esteem.
My experience
I have worked with children and young people for more than 26 years.
The children I work with have a range of difficulties, including sensory processing, autism, ADHD, coordination and/or handwriting, learning, challenging behaviour, issues with trauma and attachment, and social, emotional, and mental health.
I can help with:
- Assessment – this involves discussion with parents and school (written and verbal), observations, and standardised tests (if appropriate). I include the views of the child/young person where possible.
- Intervention – sensory integration therapy, sensory diet, programmes for school and home, recommendations for schools (classroom layout, adapting learning, exam concessions), advice for parents/carers and professionals.
- Regular reviews and ongoing support.
- Training for parents, schools, and organisations.
Expert witness reports (EHC plans, SEN tribunals)
An expert witness is someone who has a level of specialist knowledge, skill and expertise to give an opinion on the facts of a legal case.
I trained with Bond Solon and prepare occupational therapy reports for Special Educational Needs tribunals. My role and duty are to provide evidence for the court or tribunal. My reports follow the guidance for experts. They are impartial, independent and unbiased.
Disputes can occur for several reasons:
- Refusal to assess for or issue an Education, Health and Care Plan
- Disputes on the content of an Education, Health and Care Plan
- Description of the child or young person’s needs
- Outcomes and provision in the plan
- Occupational therapy support and provision
- Placement named in the plan
- Maintaining or ceasing an Education, Health and Care Plan.
Contact details
Please see my website for more information – www.smartot.co.uk
Or contact me on:
Tel: 07590 963252
Email: amanda@smartot.co.uk
