Bridging Quality Care and Innovative Solutions

In the field of occupational therapy, few professionals shine as brightly as Natasha Nutt, the director of Movementum. With a deep-seated passion for enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities, Natasha is committed to empowering her clients through tailored solutions that promote greater independence and improved quality of life. Her approach revolves around building robust community connections and working collaboratively with care providers, to ensure they have the practical resources and training to support positive outcomes for those they support.

Natasha’s partnership with HLS Healthcare plays a pivotal role in her mission to deliver high-quality care. Through this collaboration, she has access to an impressive range of equipment designed to meet the diverse needs of her clients. Natasha frequently emphasises the significance of reliable products in her practice, particularly the VENDLET positioning system, LEJRELET Positioning Pillows, and Guldmann Slings. These tools not only facilitate daily living activities but also uphold dignity and independence for those who rely on them.

One of the most compelling examples of the positive impact of this equipment comes from Natasha’s experience with a client who had been struggling with extreme pain during movements and repositioning. Natasha recalls, “We had one gentleman in particular who experienced a lot of pain during any movements. Completing any continence aid or clothing changes caused him extreme pain and discomfort.” To address his needs, they trialed the VENDLET system, and although the initial adjustment was challenging, Natasha saw transformative results over time. “As he became more confident in what it was capable of, he now loves that it’s in place. He will only let staff move him if they’re using the Vendlet system, as it means less hands-on contact and less pain and discomfort for him,” she explains. This innovative solution not only helped manage his pain but also empowered him to feel more in control during his care.

Despite the positive outcomes, Natasha faces challenges in her work, particularly regarding funding. “One of the primary challenges is funding,” she notes, referencing the recent shifts in NDIS allocations that have impacted care providers. With funding no longer directly allocated to them, many organisations have reduced the training available for staff. However, Natasha is optimistic about the future, stating that as organisations

recognise their legal responsibilities to maintain trained and confident staff, the situation is beginning to improve.

Yet, the road ahead remains complex. “High turnover of support workers in this industry makes it difficult to maintain consistent training,” Natasha explains. The time and resources needed to train staff not only for foundational skills but also for new technology can be significant. Additionally, she highlights the delays and funding hurdles that can impede access to essential equipment, stating, “It takes time and money to bring the right solutions into someone’s home, even when we know they exist.”

Natasha’s commitment extends beyond individual clients; she strives to cultivate strong relationships with care providers to create an environment conducive to quality service. By collaborating with community care agencies, she aims to enhance their capacity to deliver exceptional care that meets each client’s unique needs. This holistic approach ensures that everyone involved—therapists, caregivers, and clients—benefits from a collaborative integration of services and support.

In her dual role as an occupational therapist and director at Movementum, Natasha Nutt embodies the spirit of innovation and dedication to quality care. Her partnership with HLS Healthcare illustrates the transformative power of collaboration in improving the lives of individuals with disabilities. Through her unwavering commitment to discovering tailored solutions, Natasha is not only changing lives but also paving the way for a brighter, more independent future for her clients.