Princess Royal visits Brunel University
The Princess Royal, who is the Patron of the College of Occupational Therapists toured the university's School of Health Sciences and Social Care, on Kingston Lane, in Uxbridge, to open a new occupational therapy suite and to tour existing facilities.
During last year's Royal visit to the borough, The Queen named the purpose-built circular building the Mary Seacole Building, and on Tuesday, the Princess Royal formally opened the Keep Living Suite, where Occupational Therapy students are trained to teach patients and therapists about the latest aids and equipment for disabled people.
She also toured other teaching areas, including an art room and met staff and students.
Christine Craik, Director of Occupational Therapy at Brunel University said: “It was a great honour to have Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, Patron of the College of Occupational Therapists tour the occupational therapy facilities and meet staff and students.
“She was really interested in what the students were learning and was impressed by the Keep Living Suite which has specialist kitchen and bathroom equipment for disabled people.“
Part-time MSc Occupational Therapy student Chet Patel, who works for central London and North-West London Mental Health Trust which covers Hillingdon said:
“She certainly seemed very interested in Occupational Therapy and seemed to be quite aware of the issues regarding the profession. She's certainly good at putting you at your ease.“
The Director of Physiotherapy, Sandra Naylor, from Ickenham said: “She understood the links between the health staff and how we all work together as a team.“
Course leader for undergraduate Occupational Therapy students, Linda Gnanaseekraran, commented: “She's very friendly, very interested. She's very clued into Occupational Therapy and that the Queen had opened the building last year.“
The Princess Royal unveiled the plaque after Brunel University Pro-Chancellor Sir Robert Balchin gave the opening address. Mrs Dee Christie, Chairman of the College of Occupational Therapists gave the closing speech.