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Design For Independence is unique.

As Housing Occupational Therapists we adeptly interpret complex medical conditions into architectural designs. As Manual Handling experts we precisely assess spatial needs and equipment placement for optimal functionality.

As Therapists we prioritise privacy and dignity, ensuring that our recommendations for purchasing, designing and adapting properties for individuals with disabilities are expertly tailored to enhance quality of life. 

Design For Independence is unique.

As Housing Occupational Therapists we adeptly interpret complex medical conditions into architectural designs. As Manual Handling experts we precisely assess spatial needs and equipment placement for optimal functionality.

As Therapists we prioritise privacy and dignity, ensuring that our recommendations for purchasing, designing, and adapting properties for individuals with disabilities are expertly tailored to enhance quality of life. 

FIND

DESIGN

ADAPT

What we offer:

  • Led by a Train the Trainer professional our one-to-one or group training provides knowledge and practical techniques for family members and support workers.


  • Bespoke sessions based on specific equipment, spaces the client has.


  • Risk-reduction strategies to minimise injury and safeguard wellbeing.


  • Best practice guidance aligned with current health and safety standards.


  • Documentation for compliance with legal and insurance frameworks.

Why it matters

Improper handling can cause serious injury and lead to claims, care breakdown or avoidable hospital admissions. Our hands-on training supports sustainable care and gives carers the confidence and knowledge they need to work safely.

This service is especially valuable during hospital discharge planning, care package set-up or following the introduction of new equipment.

Meet our team

We provide impartial, unbiased advice to architects, surveyors, and other construction professionals on home adaptations, ensuring that your projects meet the highest standards of accessibility and functionality. Drawing on our extensive experience, we are pleased to recommend reputable companies with whom we have successfully collaborated and we offer project management services as required. Our Occupational Therapists operate across England and Wales.

Manual Handling Training

FIND

DESIGN

ADAPT

Manual Handling Training

Practical, person-centred training for safer care at home

When someone relies on support to move safely around their home, the quality of manual handling can make all the difference - for both the client, their family and their carers. Our Manual Handling Training equips teams with the skills they need to move and assist safely, confidently and with dignity.


Delivered in the home environment with the client and tailored to real-life situations. Our training sessions are led by experienced professionals who understand the clinical, emotional and legal complexities involved.

Manual Handling Training

Our Housing Occupational Therapists (OTs) are experts in inclusive home design and accessibility. We assess how a person’s living environment supports - or limits - their ability to live independently and comfortably.

Our Housing OTs create bespoke home designs tailored to each individual's unique needs and abilities. They recommend thoughtful layouts, fixtures, and fittings that enhance safety, comfort, and functionality - empowering individuals to navigate and enjoy their homes with confidence and ease.

We primarily support individuals who have experienced life-changing injuries or live with complex, chronic, or debilitating medical conditions. Working collaboratively with multidisciplinary healthcare teams and legal professionals, we help deliver the best possible outcomes for our clients.

Anava Baruch

Anava Baruch

CEO and Clinical Lead
BA Hons Occupational Therapy & MSc Ergonomics

DFI is a pioneering consultancy that specialises in designing bespoke home environments for individuals who have sustained catastrophic injuries. With a background as a community occupational therapist and over a decade of experience leading a multidisciplinary team, Anava is uniquely positioned at the intersection of clinical expertise and practical design.

Since founding Design for Independence Ltd. in 2012, Anava has built a team of specialist housing occupational therapists, an in-house estate agent, and a dedicated building services team, delivering end-to-end property solutions for clients living with complex physical, cognitive and visual impairments. Her work focuses on creating tailored, aesthetically considered spaces that support rehabilitation goals, promote independence, and reflect the client’s individual strengths and lifestyle.

Anava also serves as an Accommodation Expert Witness under Part 35 of the Civil Procedure Rules. Notably, she is the only expert in this field with an occupational therapy background, bringing a unique and holistic perspective to her reports. Her assessments go beyond bricks and mortar—addressing manual handling, care needs, daily occupations, family dynamics, and community integration.

Recognised for her innovative thinking and problem-solving ability, Anava is a sought-after speaker known for her insightful approach to complex cases. She brings a rare combination of clinical depth, creative vision, and practical know-how to the evolving conversation around post-injury accommodation.

Anava is a member of Bond Solon, Royal College of Occupational Therapists and the Health & Care Professions Council. She is also accredited on the APIL expert database.

Andrew Pryer

Andrew Pryer

Business Development Manager

Andrew joined Design for Independence at the beginning of 2024 as their BDM. He brings a wealth of management, customer service and sales experience from his previous career in investment banking, where he worked for a number of Tier 1 institutions. Earlier in his career he and his teams were awarded a series of industry EMEA regional client service delivery awards. Latterly he specialised in simplifying and digitising wholesale client’s complex trading & investment decisions. Andrew is married and has three grown up children. In his spare time, he enjoys working in the community, socialising and sports.

Paul Groves

Paul Groves

Head of Building Services

Paul brings with him his experience working in the Design and Build industry as both a Project Manager and a CAD designer. As well as reaching his City & Guilds in Kitchen and Bedroom design he has almost 20 years’ experience in the Aerospace industry providing a strong eye for detail and a great understanding of strict processes.

He works collaboratively with the overall team of case managers, solicitors, equipment suppliers and trades people, coordinating estimates, quotes, team meetings, reviewing drawings/plans and supporting the end users during the process of design and adaptations. Paul is mainly office based and has a complete overview of the projects so he can ensure that all adaptation work is completed in a timely and efficient fashion, within budget.

James Pudney

James Pudney

Property Expert

James leads the Design for Independence property search operation, overseeing the sales and lettings business.

Previously James has worked within both corporate and independent estate agencies with over 29 years’ experience in growing and turning businesses around, increasing market share and profitability. James was also instrumental in recruitment and training within organisations and has enjoyed working with teams and individuals, aiding them to develop their own careers. James assists our clients in the search for both short term rentals and forever home purchases and liaises closely with agents to help them understand the client’s needs and the litigation process.


Acer Morgan

Acer Morgan

Head of Client Services

Acer has a wealth of technical and communication skills from her background as a formulation scientist. Her experience includes liaising with clients, suppliers, managing projects and networking within the cosmetics industry to bring new products to the market in the UK and abroad.

Acer acts as the first point of contact within DfI, she liaises with new and existing clients, building relationships, referring and recommending other services as appropriate. Acer coordinates the services we provide to all of our end users and the professional teams supporting them ensuring information is available when needed. Acer manages the function of the office and supports the MD. Acer is office based so is available for clients as a daily contact.

Jana Robinson

Jana Robinson

Biophilic Interior Designer (Founder of The Emerald lounge)

Jana works closely with Anava’s team to enhance adapted spaces for her clients, delivering considered and sympathetic interior schemes connecting clients’ life values with their new surroundings. Her work is based on the principles of nature incorporating textures, patterns and colours that are fundamental to inviting nature indoors. This balanced combination stimulates senses, provides a calm atmosphere, reduces anxiety and shapes an authentic and comfortable home.

Biophilic design is a combination of natural elements that send a powerful message influencing how we feel and act indoors. It allows every client’s unique style to shine through whilst delivering highly functional spaces.

Jana’s collaborative approach focuses on individual needs and brings uniquely personalised solutions to every client.

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