Workplace Needs
Assessments
about
What is a Workplace Needs Assessment?
A Workplace Needs Assessment is an occupational therapy assessment that looks at the fit between a person and their job — the physical workspace, the equipment, the tasks, and the working environment — and identifies what changes would allow them to work safely, comfortably, and effectively.
This is relevant for employees returning to work after an injury or illness, employees with a disability or a chronic condition, or anyone whose current setup is affecting their ability to do their job well.
An occupational therapist visits the workplace (or reviews it remotely, where appropriate), observes how the person carries out their role, and produces a report recommending specific changes — which might range from equipment and desk setup to task modification or changes in work pattern.
SCHEMES
Financial Supports Available
Workplace adaptations in Ireland are supported through the Reasonable Accommodation Fund, administered by the Department of Social Protection through Intreo. Employers or employees can apply, and — much like the housing schemes — many of these applications are strengthened, or in some cases require, a professional occupational therapy assessment setting out exactly what's needed and why. As these schemes are reviewed periodically, we'd always recommend confirming current terms and amounts directly with the Department of Social Protection or on gov.ie before applying.
This isn't one single grant but a group of schemes
1.The Workplace Equipment/Adaptation Grant
Funds equipment or alterations needed for a person with a disability to do their job.
2.The Employee Retention Grant
Supports an employer in retaining an employee who acquires a disability or health condition during employment.
3.The Wage Subsidy Scheme
Supports employers hiring people with disabilities; and grants covering things like job interview interpreters or personal readers where needed.
Recommendations
What the Assessment Covers
The assessment itself covers the OT's evaluation of the workspace and role, and a clear written report recommending the changes needed — this is what supports an application for the funding above. Recommendations can be wide-ranging: ergonomic equipment such as adjustable chairs, desks, or specialist keyboards; changes to lighting, noise, or layout; adjustments to workflow, breaks, or task sequencing; or support around returning to work gradually after illness or injury. The goal throughout is a workplace that genuinely works for the person in it, not a generic checklist of equipment.
Why Choose Meaningful OT
This is a service we provide directly at Meaningful OT, working with both employees and employers across Cork and further afield. Our clinical background spans complex mental health needs as well as physical and ergonomic concerns, so we look at the whole picture — not just desk height, but how someone is actually managing in their role. We produce clear, detailed reports designed to support funding applications and give employers practical, workable recommendations from the outset.
Meaningful OT services are covered by
team
Our Therapists
Padraig
Clinical Specialist
Padraig, our Clinical Specialist, began his career in healthcare with a BA in Social Care from MTU. He worked as a Social Care Worker in residential homes, supporting children from birth to adulthood.
Over his 14 years of professional experience, Padraig has worked with teenagers facing a variety of challenges, including complex trauma, ASD, ADHD, self-harm, and suicidal ideation.
In his role as a Family Support Worker, Padraig focused on parenting assessments with a strong emphasis on infant mental health and practical parenting skills. He mentors young people through the Big Brother program with Foróige, using a trauma-informed approach.
Padraig pursued further education while balancing a full-time career and fatherhood, earning a BSc in Occupational Therapy from University College Cork. Recognising the need for a strengths- and values-based approach in social care, he advanced his studies with a Master’s in Positive and Coaching Psychology, also at University College Cork.
Today, Padraig runs his private practice, The OT Coach, where he offers therapeutic interventions and assessments for young people and adults who have experienced adversity. His specialties include trauma, sensory-attachment, positive psychology, and coaching, making him a trusted professional dedicated to fostering resilience and well-being.
Joy
Therapist
Joy is a dedicated occupational therapist who brings a wealth of experience working with
children and adults across a broad range of health and social care settings. She is deeply
committed to supporting individuals of all ages and abilities, with particular enthusiasm for early
intervention, health promotion and prevention.
Her background includes extensive work in
schools, on paediatric disability teams and involvement in crisis intervention, inpatient care, and community mental health services.
Since 2020, Joy has enriched the academic environment at University College Cork, serving as an assistant lecturer and practice tutor in the Department of Occupational Science and
Occupational Therapy. In this role, she shares her clinical knowledge with the next generation of therapists, guiding students through practical learning and reflective practice.
In research, Joy excels in designing and leading large-scale projects, alongside evaluating
health and community-based initiatives. She brings strong analytical skills and a collaborative
spirit to her work in service development and outcome measurement.
Currently, Joy is pursuing a PhD in mental health occupational therapy, driven by a passion to deepen evidence-based practice and support innovation in mental health care.
Ailis
Senior Occupational Therapist
Ailis brings over 10 years of experience to Meaningful OT, spanning hospital, community, and specialist team settings. Her clinical background includes dedicated work within ADHD-specialised services, and she now works extensively supporting, teenagers, adults, and families — with a particular focus on adult mental health.
With advanced training in trauma-sensitive practice, Ailis is an experienced clinical supervisor, delivering supervision and running workshops and wellness sessions for organisations across a range of settings. She works flexibly with clients online, in the community, and in clinic, adapting her approach to what works best for each person.
Ailis's clinical interest lies in the connection between body and mind. Understanding the vital role movement plays in supporting wellbeing, she works with clients to build meaningful occupations and participation — helping individuals and families live fuller lives, rooted in joy and meaning.
Saoirse
Therapist
Saoirse graduated from the National University of Ireland, Galway in 2018 with a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy. Since then, she has worked in Vietnam, London, and Abu Dhabi before returning home to Ireland, gaining experience across a range of mental health, educational, and paediatric settings.
Over the past eight years, Saoirse has worked with adults and children within mental health services, mainstream and special education schools, and paediatric clinics. She has supported people with a wide range of physical, developmental, sensory, and mental health needs, and has developed a particular passion for trauma-informed, neuro-affirming practice.
Saoirse believes that the heart of good therapy is connection. She is passionate about building genuine, trusting relationships where people feel safe, understood, and empowered to be their authentic selves. Her approach is client-centred and strengths-based, working collaboratively with each person to build on their unique strengths and achieve goals that are meaningful to them.
Above all, Saoirse is passionate about helping people rediscover what brings them joy. She believes occupational therapy is about more than developing skills, it's about supporting people to participate in the activities, relationships, and experiences that give life meaning and fulfilment. Her goal is to help every client build confidence, feel connected, and experience authentic joy in their everyday lives.
admin team
Our Change Supporters
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Jane
Operations Manager
At the heart of Meaningful OT is Jane, our Operations Manager — and honestly, "administrative staff" doesn't come close to capturing what she brings to this team.
Jane is the person ensuring every one of our clients' needs is met to the highest and most efficient standard, bringing a wealth of skill and genuine care to everything she touches.
But what truly sets her apart is that she lives by the same values we ask of every member of our team: a deep understanding of relationships, connection, and the therapeutic journey itself. Jane is passionate about living a meaningful life and chasing what matters most — and that passion is exactly why she's part of our team.
She helps us facilitate the very passions our clients hold, or may have lost along the way, with the same care and dedication she brings to her own life. We are so grateful to have her.
testimonials
What Our Clients Say
"The trauma talk was a game-changer for our staff. Practical, engaging, and deeply moving. We left with real strategies to support our students".
Sarah, Residential Team
"Padraig's session on ADHD and parenting was the best we’ve ever had. He made complex topics easy to understand, and our team felt empowered and inspired".
Claire, Family Support Worker
"The OT Coach team brought warmth and expertise to our workplace well-being day. Our team felt truly seen and supported".
Liam, Youth organisation
