Octapitional health access

Holly456

Hi, a family member had a opt access her needs at her home today. It has left her very stressed as the person kept commenting how the home would be great for a family and that she should move into a flat. My family member has mental health and don't want to move she's in a safe area and have support of her kids and neighbors. Can a opt force her to be moved into a flat by the council?

Rachel_Scope

Hi @Holly456 welcome to the community.

I'm sorry your family member is so stressed after their assessment. I can understand why they might feel worried after the occupational therapists comments, however, their job is to only to assess that the house is suitable, i.e. does it meet the person's needs and do any adjustments need to be made to the property. Here's some more information https://www.scope.org.uk/advice-and-support/home-adaptations-occupational-therapist-assessments

I don't think they will be concerned about moving your family member. They may have just been complimenting the home and not thinking how it may come across. I hope that puts your mind at ease 😊

Holly456

She did say about putting in railing in, but all she kept saying is how big mum house is and it be good for a family and she might recemend downsizing into a flat. Which my family member is now really worried that she'll get forced into one when even her daughter tried to explain to the lady that she visits and stays over a lot and has good support from the neighbors like if something happens with her mum's mental health. I don't know much about the opt and wish I could reasure her they can't force her out of her home she's been in for so long. Thanks for your help I hope your right and it was just more the house is nice.

Rachel_Scope

She may have recommended downsizing as she may have thought it'd be easier for your mum. If your mum is happy where she is and has a good support network then that's all that matters. I can't find any information anywhere that says they have the power to move anyone. It's easy for me to say don't worry but please tell your mum she'll be ok. They only want to make sure her home has the right equipment for her.

Holly456

Thanks Rachel, I will try to reasure her they don't have those kinda powers. She has great support where she is all she really needed as a few adeptions. But I know this has worried her so much and now affecting her emotional health.

Rachel_Scope

Having assessments and people in your home is always worrying. I'm glad she has such wonderful support around her. If she feels she could do with some extra emotional health support she can contact her GP or there's organisations like mind who can offer support.