Occupational Therapy with Children and Young People: A Perspective from the United Kingdom

Occupational therapy practice in the United Kingdom is well established and continues to evolve. Traditional methods of service delivery and intervention techniques have developed into more unified services, integrating child and family-centered approaches, which are often occupation-focused. This article details a historical perspective of the development of occupational therapy services shaped around the development of educational, health, and social care models that are in place today within the United Kingdom. An overview of occupational therapy as a profession defines practice before focusing on the development of children's occupational therapy services. The development of policy and legislation within the United Kingdom provides a framework for occupational therapy provision, alongside occupational therapy models of practice. Information is provided regarding predominant service delivery models that are currently in use to support children and families. A range of diagnostic groups are seen by occupational therapists in the United Kingdom. Information is presented that details assessment and interventions that are often utilized by occupational therapists working in these areas. The article provides an insight into these issues and current occupational therapy practice with children and young people within the United Kingdom to date.