Sep29Written by:Editor
29/09/2010 
The Princess Royal paid tribute to the achievements of adolescents with learning disabilities at a charity awards on 28 September.
The Princess Royal visited St Andrew’s Hospital in Northampton in her role as patron of the College of Occupational Therapists. She toured the charity’s specialist adolescent unit, which cares for young people with emotional and behavioural problems, mental health disorders and developmental disabilities.
The visit included observing some of the therapeutic activities available, including a baking session, animal-assisted therapy and horticulture. Staff also demonstrated specialist sensory equipment such as fibre optic lamps and stress balls.
Following her tour of the facility, The Princess Royal attended an awards ceremony to celebrate the young people’s achievements over the previous year. She watched musical performances by patients and staff - including African drumming, a contemporary band and a choir – before formally addressing the audience.
Professor Philip Sugarman, chief executive officer and medical director at St Andrew’s, said: "The NHS White Paper places greater focus on patient outcomes and our charity wholeheartedly supports that move.
"The services at St Andrew’s centre on achieving the best results for young people in our care. By combining strong clinical practice with educational qualifications, life skills training and interesting leisure activities, we can both help patient recovery and give them a sense of meaning. That's key to helping them reintegrate into communities post-rehabilitation.
"Today was all about celebrating achievement and showcasing young talent. Many of our patients have experienced difficult life circumstances, but they still have a lot to offer society. Today clearly proved that, and meeting The Princess Royal has been a real inspiration to them."
The charity’s occupational therapy programme includes arts and crafts activity, animal-assisted therapy, sports and music. Life skills such as cooking and horticulture help patients to learn to look after themselves and prepare for reintegration into the community.
There is also an emphasis on achieving educational and vocational qualifications through the charity’s registered school. During the past year, 24 young people achieved GCSEs in a variety of subjects, including art, biology, English, mathematics, science and statistics; many also received entry level certificates, Duke of Edinburgh and Sports Leader awards.
Julia Scott, chief executive of the College of Occupational Therapists said: “Today’s visit clearly demonstrates the difference that occupational therapy can make in helping recovery plans. Activity is hugely important in helping people to re-engage, build their confidence and skills and rehabilitate into community life.
“St Andrew’s is clearly doing a lot of good work supporting vulnerable young people. It’s encouraging to see the importance that the charity gives to placing occupational therapy at the heart of its work.”
