Children and Young people's - Occupational Therapy, In Car Safety Information

"Information given on this site is not meant to take the place of a talk with your doctor or health worker."

Occupational Therapy Advice

The occupational therapist can discuss in car safety with the family to identify if additional supports are required and can direct parents/ carers to companies the family can contact for an assessment and possible purchase.

If a child/ young person is not known to the occupational therapy service, parents/ carers can contact the service enquiry line/ enquiry inbox to seek advice and support;

Telephone: 01896 826033 (voicemail)

Email: Paediatric.OTEnquiries@borders.scot.nhs.uk.

Funding Advice

Car seats are not provided by our local Community Equipment Service. (www.publications.scot.nhs.uk/files/dl-2015-01.pdf - Scottish Government Guidance pg.9)

Where a child is in receipt of Child disability payments (CDP), it is encouraged that this can be used to assist with the purchase of a car seat.

The occupational therapist may also be able to offer information on charitable organisations who may be able to give financial support to parents/ carers with the purchase of a car seat.

Points to Consider

When exploring in car safety options, it may be helpful to consider some of the following points:

Make sure there is appropriate head support. Head should be below the height of the chair.
Does the harness give your child enough support e.g. can they remain upright in the chair?
How easy will you find getting your child in/out of the car?
Does your child need additional postural support e.g. side supports or pommel?
Does your child’s bottom stay in place? Is further pelvic support required?
Is your child able to unfasten safety clips when the car is in motion? Do you need a safety harness?
Would consideration of a wheelchair accessible vehicle be appropriate?

Important Points to Consider

The final decision with regards to the choice of seat purchased remains with the parents/carers
Occupational Therapists are unable to make a recommendation on a specific make or model of car seat or harness. They can advise on the postural needs of your child for you to consider as part of the parent/ carer & supplier assessment.
Families should contact the car seating companies to ensure that the seat is the correct model to use with their car. The supplier will provide specific advice regarding fitting to their car.