Occupational Therapy
"Occupational therapy enables people to achieve health, well being and life satisfaction through participation in occupation."
Octavia Hill contributed to the development of occupational therapy in England.
1852 - 1857
- Aged 14, Octavia Hill ran a business for the ladies Co-operative Guild, employing Ragged School children making toy furniture. At weekends she took them to Hampsterad Heath to enjoy being outdoors. She enabled some girls to train in needlework, printing and teaching.
1864 - 1888
- From Paradise Place to Red Cross Cottages, Hill provided tenants with rooms for community occupations, playgrounds for children and organised parties and outings.
1908 - 1913
- Elizabeth Casson trained as a housing manager by Octavia Hill, becoming manager of Red Cross Hall - a centre providing recreational and educational activities.
1929
- Elizabeth Casson becomes a doctor of medicine with an interest in mental health and the "power of creative handiwork"
1930
- Elizabeth Casson opens first school of Occupational Therapy in England at Dorset House, Bristol
About Us
In 1994, the Octavia Hill Birthplace Museum Trust (registered charity no.1018947) purchased part of the house, opening a museum that is entirely run by volunteers. It attracts visitors from all over the world.
In 2007, the Trust purchased the rest of Octavia Hill’s Birthplace House. Funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, the European Regional Development Fund and a fundraising appeal, the reunification project was completed in 2009.
Contact Details
7 South Brink
Wisbech
Cambridgeshire
PE13 1JB
Tel/Fax: 01945 476358
Email: info@octaviahill.org
Opening Times
From 1st November 2017 to 14th March 2018 the museum is open by pre-appointment.
Open first Saturday of each month from 1pm – 4:30pm (last admissions 4pm).
Get in Touch
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