Case studies

In 2019, Blackburn with Darwen had the worst childhood tooth decay rates in England. Following the launch of a childhood oral health strategy in 2021, and through successful collaborative work with a range of partners, the number of five-year-olds with tooth decay has fallen by a significant 16 per cent in six year

Childhood growth is an important indicator of a child’s overall health. Higher rates of childhood stunting are associated with greater socioeconomic deprivation and an increased risk of chronic health problems. A public health registrar at Sefton Borough Council has been exploring how better understanding of the causes of childhood stunting could help reduce child health inequalities.

‘Family Matters’ is a multi-agency programme in Stoke-on-Trent that gives families access to the advice, tips and opportunities they need to thrive. It is a key part of the city council’s commitment to early support – working with partners, including the voluntary and community sector, to ensure that children have the best start in life.

In the London Borough of Brent, the Principal Occupational Therapist is leading the development of a prevention strategy by applying occupational therapy's strengths-based, population-focused approach to public health, aiming to reduce care needs and address health inequalities through system-wide collaboration and data-driven planning.

Leeds City Council’s Housing Occupational Therapy Team plays a vital role in matching residents with accessible homes, influencing inclusive housing design, and recycling adaptations, while supporting the city’s diverse and changing population to live well and independently.

Hertfordshire County Council transformed its reablement services by expanding occupational therapy roles into a dedicated Enablement Team, resulting in improved outcomes, integrated care, and significant cost savings, through evidence-led leadership and a strong focus on prevention and enablement.

South Gloucestershire Council’s Assistive Technology (AT) service, led by occupational therapists and technicians, successfully transformed adult social care by integrating personalised, cost-effective tech solutions, enabling independent living, and embedding technology into mainstream care planning and practice.

This case study details the journey of two pre-registration MSc occupational therapy students in their final year on a role-emerging leadership placement within Public Health at Nottinghamshire County Council, specifically working alongside the domestic violence team.

This case study explains how ABLE2 used an occupational therapy-led approach to help people recently discharged from hospital or receiving high levels of care regain independence and reduce their reliance on long-term support.

This case study highlights how West Berkshire Council established a Principal Occupational Therapist (POT) post to provide strategic leadership, enhance workforce development, and strengthen the role of occupational therapy in adult social care, particularly in prevention and integration with health services.