A Visiting Occupational Therapy Service to Indigenous Children in School: Results of A Pilot Project

Alison Nelson; Heather Allison

doi:10.1017/S132601110060087X

Authors

Alison Nelson Division of Occupational Therapy, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Queensland
Heather Allison Division of Occupational Therapy, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Queensland

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1017/S132601110060087X

Abstract

The need for additional support for Indigenous children at school is well documented. Occupational therapists are well positioned to form part of this support. However, many occupational therapists report that Indigenous families do not access their services and when they do, the occupational therapist feels uncertain about how best to meet their needs. This article documents a pilot project which delivered occupational therapy services within several schools and preschools in Brisbane which had significant numbers of Indigenous students. The project was evaluated using a qualitative methodology and included focus groups and interviews with teachers and parents. The results indicated that in general the service provided valuable support to students, teachers and parents. In particular, providing the service within the school context was seen as critical to its success. Suggestions for improvements in future support services are also provided.

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References

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