A COMPANY which provides quality social workers to statutory, voluntary and independent organisations has expanded its role with a new service.

Careplan UK Ltd was set up in January to provide a nationwide occupational therapy assessment service to health authorities, local authorities, housing associations, insurance companies and private individuals and their carers.

The formation of the new company was a logical way forward for Susan Cranie, who established Careplan Specialist Services Ltd in 1995 in Easton Street, High Wycombe.

During the course of their work Susan and her team became aware of the increasing demand for skilled and experienced occupational therapists across all client groups.

Careplan UK came into being following consultations with Frances Mace, already with the company and Kirstie Dalrymple who are both senior state registered occupational therapists.

Frances said that there is an enormous nationwide shortage of occupational therapists throughout the country and tremendous pressure on social services departments which have big waiting lists for housing adaptations and grant applications.

"The aim of Careplan UK is to improve the quality of life and safety of the individual.

"Our priority is to tailor the support and advice to the needs of the individual," she said.