Occupational Therapy Service launches moving and handling training led by Deborah Harrison

The Occupational Therapy Service has launched a dedicated moving and handling training service in the U.K. led by Deborah Harrison, a longtime specialist in the field. The program is aimed at healthcare, education and workplace professionals who need practical training for safer, person-centred transfers.

Why it matters: - The new service targets professionals who handle manual transfers in health, care, education and workplace settings. - TOTS says the training is designed to improve confidence, competence and clinical reasoning in complex moving and handling situations. - The launch could raise the standard of training for staff working around beds, baths, toilets and chairs.

What happened: - The Occupational Therapy Service launched a dedicated Moving and Handling Training Service in the United Kingdom on August 10, 2026. - Deborah Harrison is leading the new service. - TOTS described Harrison as a leading expert in moving and handling and optimal handed care. - TOTS said the service is open to healthcare professionals and others involved in moving and handling across health, care, education and workplace settings.

The details: - Deborah Harrison has more than 25 years of experience in moving and handling across health and social care. - Harrison has worked in acute hospitals, community services, local authorities and the independent care sector. - Harrison is a registered nurse by background. - TOTS said the training combines its occupational therapy approach with Harrison’s educational model. - The course content will be varied and flexible to need. - A major focus will be training professionals responsible for implementing the High Impact Change Model for Optimal Handed Care. - TOTS said the program is built on robust research and evidence, including research Harrison has contributed to. - Experienced clinicians who have implemented these principles in real organisations will deliver the courses. - Delegates will work through complex clinical scenarios to leave with practical skills they can apply immediately. - TOTS said the training will support person-centred moving and handling between equipment such as beds, baths, toilets and chairs.

Between the lines: - The launch expands TOTS beyond its core occupational therapy services into a more specialized training offer. - The partnership suggests TOTS is leaning on Harrison’s reputation to strengthen its credibility in a technical area of care practice. - The focus on evidence, scenario-based learning and implementation hints at a course built for operational use rather than theory alone.

What's next: - TOTS is taking bookings for training sessions by phone at 0333 444 0062. - The company also directs inquiries to its website, the company’s site. - Harrison said the new partnership will help take knowledge sharing to the next level and improve the experience for people who need manual transfers. - Adam Ferry, TOTS co-director, said the collaboration opens a new chapter as the company broadens its work beyond traditional occupational therapy.