Policies and Procedures

Forest Pathways OT & Consulting is committed to providing safe, ethical and high-quality occupational therapy services. The following outlines key policies and procedures that guide all work.

Full policy documents are available upon request.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding is a priority in all work with children, young people and vulnerable adults. Forest Pathways OT & Consulting follows current safeguarding guidance and works in line with local safeguarding procedures.

The occupational therapist holds an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Safeguarding concerns are taken seriously and acted upon appropriately, including sharing concerns with relevant agencies where required.

Confidentiality

All information shared is treated as confidential and handled respectfully. Information is only shared with consent, unless there is a legal or safeguarding requirement to do so.

Records are stored securely and in line with data protection legislation.

Data Protection and GDPR

Forest Pathways OT & Consulting is registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) and complies with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and Data Protection Act.

Personal data is:

  • Collected only when necessary

  • Stored securely

  • Used solely for the purpose of providing services

  • Not shared without consent unless legally required

You have the right to access information held about you or your child.

Consent

Informed consent is obtained before assessment or intervention begins. Consent is ongoing and can be withdrawn at any time. For children and young people, consent is sought from those with parental responsibility, and involvement is explained in an age-appropriate way.

Professional Standards

All services are delivered in line with:

  • The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) standards

  • Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) professional guidance

Work is evidence-informed, ethical and within professional scope of practice.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Forest Pathways OT & Consulting is committed to inclusive, non-discriminatory practice. Services are provided with respect for individual differences, identities and lived experiences.

Reasonable adjustments are considered to support access and participation.

Health and Safety

Risk is considered carefully across all settings. Reasonable steps are taken to ensure the safety of individuals, families, staff and environments where support takes place.

Working in Educational and Community Settings

When working in schools or community settings, Forest Pathways OT & Consulting follows the setting’s policies and procedures alongside its own professional responsibilities.

Complaints Procedure

Feedback is welcomed and used to improve services.

If you have a concern or complaint:

  1. Please raise it directly, where possible, so it can be addressed promptly

  2. If the issue is not resolved, concerns can be submitted in writing

  3. Complaints will be acknowledged and responded to in a timely and respectful manner

Insurance

Forest Pathways OT & Consulting holds appropriate professional indemnity and public liability insurance.

Policy Review

Policies and procedures are reviewed regularly to ensure they remain current and reflect best practice and legal requirements.