At RNIB Pears Centre for Specialist Learning (formerly RNIB Rushton School and Children's Home), we offer an in-house team of therapists and healthcare consultants, including behaviour specialists trained in the care of people with learning disabilities, physiotherapists, and speech and language therapists.
Our brand new facilities include multi-sensory environments, movement and therapy rooms and a vision assessment suite.
The following approaches are an integral part of our provision:
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physiotherapy
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speech and language therapy
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water therapy
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music and creative therapy
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occupational therapy
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habilitation and mobility
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proactive behaviour management
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clinical psychology
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complementary therapy.
Therapies
Our range of therapies enable young people to acess the curriculum and leisure activities more effectively, and to maintain and extend their skills and capabilities.
What the therapy team does
Responsibilities of the therapy team include:
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individual programmes of hydrotherapy and physiotherapy
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assessment and guidance in relation to postural and seating equipment
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support for the management of programmes to address challenging behaviour
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individual programmes to enhance and facilitate communication
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guidance in eating and drinking
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advice on the use of augmentative systems of communication
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support for communication and the expression of feelings and emotions through music
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advice and training for staff in moving and handling techniques.
Healthcare
All young people at RNIB Pears Centre have access to the highest level of healthcare. Young people are registered with a local General Practitioner (GP) and may have access to a paediatrician. The GP makes a weekly visit to the accommodation. Local community health services and hospital appointments are made for all young people registered with the GP when required.
Our healthcare and therapies team receive ongoing professional training and clinical supervision as part of their personal development.
Health and safety
The health and safety of young people, staff, volunteers and visitors is of paramount importance. Regular meetings are held at which health and safety issues are considered in relation to individuals, premises, vehicles, equipment and activities. Comprehensive risk assessments are undertaken on a regular and ongoing basis.
Training, advice and support
Our staff have a wealth of expertise within the fields of visual impairment and complex needs. They can offer training, advice and support to professionals and organisations across the country. You can find out more about the events and training we are holding or for more information, visit the Effective Practice webpages or contact us.
For more information about communication in children and adults with visual impairment or visual impairment and autism, visit the website of Ian Bell, our Lead Speech and Language Therapist.
Visit us!
We welcome visits from parents, carers, children, other family members and professionals. Contact us to arrange your visit.