New blog explores how occupational therapy can strengthen the link between housing and health

Written by Lucy Leonard, Clinical Director of The Occupational Therapy Service, this Housing LIN guest blog shares why housing must be recognised as a fundamental part of health and care.

Reflecting on the launch of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists’ Building Health into Homes report, Lucy highlights how occupational therapists can contribute far earlier in the housing journey, from planning and design to commissioning and service delivery.

Drawing on innovative work with the London Borough of Newham and a partnership with AKW, she demonstrates how occupational therapy can help create healthier homes, prevent crises and deliver more effective, person-centred housing solutions.

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Join Lucy and others as we explore that challenge further at our forthcoming HAPPI Hour webinar, Building Health into Homes: How Occupational Therapy Can Unlock the Connection Between Housing and Health, on Tuesday, 21st of July 2026.