Accessing Occupational Therapy privately — or getting additional support beyond what’s provided by the NHS or school — can be expensive.  There are a range of funding sources, statutory support options, and charitable grants that families can explore. Below is an overview of some options that may be relevant:

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The Adoption & Special Guardianship Support Fund can provide funding for specialist assessments & therapy for adopted children.

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Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) can specify that a child requires OT provision (in Section F of the EHCP).  The Local Authority has a legal duty to ensure this is delivered.​

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Families receiving Direct Payments (social care) can choose where they arrange & pay for services including therapy.

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Some charities and councils may offer grants for therapy assessments/ treatment.  It may be worth searching for grants where you can see what grant options you may be eligible for.

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If you have a policy that covers Occupational Therapy or Sensory Integration as part of your Private health insurance, it may cover part/ full payment of a booking.

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Nurseries, school and colleges including Alternative Provisions may have budgets that can pay for assessments or treatment, therefore it may be worth contacting the education provider to see what is available. 

 

Schools can also fund activities to support physical, sensory, emotional or social development, typically alongside Occupational Therapy (for example dance classes/ horse riding/ swimming/ hydrotherapy/ forest school/ yoga).  Schools may fund these through SEND/ SEN Supporting funding or Pupil Premium/ Pupil Premium Plus (for children who are Looked After/ previously Looked After/ from low income households).

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Some schools offer bespoke timetables and may choose OT to form part of the individualised timetable.