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Royal College of Occupational Therapists

@thercot.bsky.social
333 followers 39 following 362 posts

We're RCOT. Championing #OccupationalTherapy and helping achieve life-changing breakthroughs for our members, the people they support and society as a whole.

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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 12h
Stronger Allied Health Professional leadership means bringing our expertise into the decisions that shape the future of health and care. Read our joint statement: www.rcot.co.uk/latest-news/ahpf-calls-stronger-ahp-leadership-nhs-reform #AHP #HealthBill #RCOT #OccupationalTherapy
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
The Keep Britain Working report is about whether the demands of a job, the environment someone works in & the support available to them are aligned with their abilities & circumstances: bit.ly/4yQUIuz #KeepBritainWorkingReview #KBWR #OccupationalTherapy
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 28/09/2026
A new Earn and Learn pilot lets healthcare support workers in rural and island Scotland train as occupational therapists while staying in work, delivered with @robertgordonuni.bsky.social and backed by the Scottish Government. 👇 bit.ly/4d4ao5n
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 24/09/2026
This is OT working in the community exactly as it should. Meet Sport for Confidence's SfC Connect, an OT-led wellbeing service for Westminster residents living with long-term conditions, disabilities, mental health needs or significant life changes. Read the full article 👉 bit.ly/4c9Qi9n
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 22/09/2026
We recently welcomed HRH The Princess Royal, our Patron, to Musgrave Park Hospital's Regional Acquired Brain Injury Unit in Belfast. The visit marked 20 years of RABIU and celebrated how occupational therapists support people after brain injury. 👏
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 10/09/2026
Amy Howard, you’re a Merit Award winner 🎉 The Merit Award recognises outstanding contributions to occupational therapy and Amy's work championing our voice in shaping the future of social care in England is exactly why this recognition is so well deserved
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 31/08/2026
What's on? 📌 We've got a few dates worth adding to your diary this autumn. 🍂 Whether you're looking to learn something new or connect with the OT community, there's something here for you. Find out more and book your spot 👉https://bit.ly/4icVA7E
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 28/08/2026
A new episode of the advanced practice podcast is out now. 🎧 Advanced practice in occupational therapy is evolving. This episode dives into Leading through Curiosity with Eleanor Corbett and it's well worth your time. 👉 bit.ly/3SyayKX
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Leading through curiosity – Eleanor Corbett’s advanced practice journey – Career Conversations Podca
In this episode of RCOT’s Career Conversations about advanced and consultant level practice, Claire Guyatt (Practice and Workforce Manager at RCOT) is joined by Eleanor Corbett, Consultant Practitioner in a Frailty Urgent Community Response/Hospital@Hom...
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 27/08/2026
Nature as medicine 🌳 OTs are bringing green spaces into recovery and wellbeing, think allotment groups, nature support workers and more. This work sits alongside Natural England's strategy to help people connect with and benefit from nature. 🌿 bit.ly/4g7IZ4e
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Otterly Brilliant: Occupational Therapy Supporting Nature-Based Health Delivery and Site Improvements
By Esther Smith, Senior Officer, Health and Environment (North East and Yorkshire) This blog outlines the importance of green spaces in improving health and wellbeing, with a focus on occupational the...
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 19/08/2026
The deadline is 18 September. Have your say. Decisions about the future of health and care services in England are being made and OTs needs a strong voice. We're keen to hear from OTs in local authority, mental health and criminal justice. Complete the survey 👉 bit.ly/43eMSgB
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 18/08/2026
A big welcome to Rosie Hughes, who's joining BAOT Council as our new Research and Development representative. 👋 Rosie is bringing a lot of experience she's bringing to a role that really matters for the future of occupational therapy. Welcome Rosie! 🙌
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 17/08/2026
Working as an independent OT looks different for everyone. And now there's guidance to reflect that. Whether you're newly independent or well established, our new guidance is worth exploring. Read the new guidance 👉 bit.ly/4hZ6QEv
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 04/08/2026
Participation Changes Everything is our OT Week 2026 theme, 2 Nov. For Melanie, participation meant being able to go out to buy her own electric shaver again, allowing her to maintain an aspect of personal care that was important to her🪒 Start planning your OT Week 👉 bit.ly/4wBKspl
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 04/08/2026
Participation Changes Everything is our OT Week 2026 theme, 2 Nov. For Melanie, participation meant being able to go out to buy her own electric shaver again, allowing her to maintain an aspect of personal care that was important to her🪒 Start planning your OT Week 👉 bit.ly/4wBKspl
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 31/07/2026
Members 📢 Your July OTnews Extra is here. From supporting young people with SEND to promoting disability pride and championing neurodiversity in the workplace, see how OTs are breaking barriers and creating opportunities for people to thrive. Swipe through now 🗞️ 👉 bit.ly/4fFbuop
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 17/06/2026
A national framework for AHPs is being developed for 2027-2032 and your voice needs to be part of it 📢 We'll also be feeding in as RCOT, drawing on what we hear from members to make sure OT has a strong voice at a national level. The deadline is 18 September 📅 bit.ly/4ovX9yx
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 16/06/2026
Different paths, different experiences, one shared community. From learning and connection to confidence and growth, hear how four members are making the most of their RCOT membership. What’s been the most valuable part of membership for you? 💬 Join it here: bit.ly/4wmH4yJ
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 12/06/2026
RCOT members: your voice matters. 🗳️ Join us online for the BAOT AGM – Thursday 25 June, from 12.30pm. Vote on how your professional body is run, hold Council to account and hear how your organisation is performing. 👉 rcot.co.uk/agm2026
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 09/06/2026
This Carers Week we're thinking about the millions of people who show up every day for someone else. Are you a carer or do you work with carers in your practice? Head to our Communities network and join the conversation 👉 [LINK]
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 26/05/2026
Meet Thahmina 👋 OT. Community builder. Always learning. For her, being part of RCOT means tapping into the knowledge and experience of OTs across the UK and bringing that back into practice. 🔗 bit.ly/4wmH4yJ
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 14/05/2026
Meet Norma 👋 An RCOT member for nearly 20 years, staying connected, learning from others and growing with the profession. A reminder that behind every OT is a community that gets it bit.ly/3QPSpqK
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 30/04/2026
More than half (56%) of OTs say they can't provide the level of support children require and only 39% report fully staffed teams 📉 There is a clear opportunity through the proposed “experts at hand” service. But without the capacity to deliver it, children will miss out ➡️ bit.ly/4cT51F4
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 23/04/2026
Employers play a key role in shaping those first OT experiences, from strong supervision to creating team cultures where people feel supported and able to grow. Our new Early Career Principles offer practical guidance to help make that happen 👉 bit.ly/4svxSF2
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 14/04/2026
When might a child benefit from seeing an occupational therapist? We’ll let OT Lizzie answer that👇 Children and young people may need different types of support at different times. We’ve broken them down into three rough categories ➡️ bit.ly/47gYBO4
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 25/03/2026
Say hello to Amber at our Spotlight on Parenting event in Birmingham on 20 April. 📍 Don't miss out on your member-exclusive early bird ticket to this practical, creative and occupation-focused event. CPD, networking and collaboration guide this event. See the full agenda 🔗 bit.ly/4rUOOov
The image features an illustration of an adult and a child interacting with toys. The logo of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists is at the top left. Below is a quote from Amber Jones, a Spotlight on Parenting attendee, discussing a residential programme aimed at addressing social and health inequalities among solo parents.
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 17/03/2026
Occupational therapy in schools is evolving 💚 More OTs are working in classrooms, supporting whole-school approaches and helping children take part in everyday routines that support their development and wellbeing. 'What matters most is children’s natural context.' More 👉 bit.ly/4tJ5nFW
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How occupational therapists’ role in schools is changing
It used to be the case that occupational therapists only really helped individual pupils with complex needs, but now they are increasingly working to a much broader brief with schools, finds Zofia Nie...
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 13/03/2026
Gary and Odeth visited OTs across Northern Ireland last week, hearing directly about the pressures teams are facing and the impact OT-led services are making. Their reflections are now live: bit.ly/4s02uzh
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 06/03/2026
Good news for children, families and OTs 👏 The new schools White Paper recognises occupational therapy through the ‘Experts at Hand’ model, giving schools earlier specialist help. Next focus: funding, workforce capacity and delivery. 💚 More updates soon.
Two students in a classroom sit at a desk, smiling and holding markers. The wall behind them displays various colorful artwork and educational posters. They appear engaged and happy.
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 05/03/2026
Youth unemployment is rising and too many young people are falling through the gaps. We’ve told the Alan Milburn Review why occupational therapists must be part of the solution. Read more 👉 bit.ly/4sa7yR8
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Why occupational therapists are essential to tackling rising youth unemployment
We've submitted evidence to the Alan Milburn Review on youth unemployment, setting out why occupational therapists must be part of the solution.
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 04/03/2026
Plans for an 'experts at hand' service could improve access to specialist support in schools. But the workforce is already under pressure. RCOT’s Karin Orman told @tesmagazine.bsky.social the investment is welcome, but funding must reach frontline teams. 🔗 bit.ly/3N7kqZo
tes.com
New ‘experts at hand’ won’t arrive fast enough, DfE warned
Professional bodies back bigger roles in schools for educational psychologists, occupational and speech and language therapists - but say they already struggle to meet demand
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 27/02/2026
OTs now have a stronger voice in Parliament. A new All-Party Parliamentary Group for AHPs brings MPs and Peers together to focus on the workforce. We’ll make sure occupational therapy expertise helps shape national decisions. Read more 👉 bit.ly/3P2WgzO
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Good news for the AHP workforce
A new All-Party Parliamentary Group for Allied Health Professionals has been registered.
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 27/02/2026
Our new restrictive equipment guidance is now live. 📣 
Practical support to help Occupational Therapists make safe, ethical decisions. Download your copy here: 🔗 bit.ly/48KrF09
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 26/02/2026
Gary has kicked off his UK visits in Scotland. Two days meeting OTs in Edinburgh and Glasgow – hearing about workforce pressures, innovation and prevention in action. Your voices will shape our next steps. Read more in the blog 👉 bit.ly/4tJ54e7
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 25/02/2026
Independent OT practice is demanding - but you don’t have to do it alone. Join us in London for a one-day training event to help you sustain your work, diversify income an build a future-proof practice. 📆 11 March 2026 | 9.30am – 5pm 👉 bit.ly/4rK9Abb
A person in a wheelchair propels forward against a teal backdrop. Text reads: "Independent OT practice is rewarding – but it's demanding. You don't have to do it alone. Join us in London for a one-day training event. 9.30am–5pm, Wednesday 11 March 2026." The Royal College of Occupational Therapists logo is visible at the top.
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 24/02/2026
🏳️‍🌈 LGBTQIA+ History Month Clinical Specialist Occupational Therapist Niall Kirrane talks about simple actions that can create social change and explores how we can support LGBTQIA+ people using occupational therapy services. 🔗 bit.ly/4b7PLV1
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 24/02/2026
🏳️‍🌈 LGBTQIA+ History Month Niall Kirrane reflects on activism through an occupational lens and how everyday actions shape social change in occupational therapy. 📹 bit.ly/4b7PLV1 Explore more LGBTQIA+ History Month content in our Communities space where members share ideas and experiences.
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 24/02/2026
Children thrive when support is in place early. The schools White Paper recognises the role of OTs in schools and neighbourhood teams. Now we need workforce and funding to turn ambition into action. Read more in our response. 🔗 bit.ly/3MGWgVG
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 20/02/2026
Mandy didn’t expect her school-based placement to reshape her confidence, but it did. Working independently, leading a handwriting project and supporting pupils through transition helped her see just how much OT can offer in education. 📘 Read Mandy’s full story: bit.ly/4b8W6Ag
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 17/02/2026
WFOT Congress wrapped up on a high. 52 RCOT members took part – sharing research and building global connections. AI in practice and draft early career standards sparked strong interest. New BJOT opportunities are already emerging.
Dr Sureshkumar Kamalakannan, Karin Orman, Jou Yin Teoh and Odeth Richardson smiling
together at the WFOT Congress, standing in front of a conference banner.Dr Sureshkumar Kamalakannan standing at a lectern and presenting at the WFOT
Congress.
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 13/02/2026
Gary’s first month reflections: what you’ve told him so far 👋 Over 100 members met, visits across the UK, and lots of honest conversations. Gary’s shared what he’s hearing from OTs and how your insights are shaping his next steps. Read the blog: 🔗 bit.ly/3MtONZL
A group of occupational therapy colleagues standing together indoors with Gary
during a visit to Cambridgeshire, where he met teams to learn about their work and impact.
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 13/02/2026
Did you know you can qualify as an occupational therapist through an apprenticeship? Combining paid work (80%) with learning (20%) through an employer such as the @NHS or a social care service – there's more than one route to OT 🎓 How has work-based learning supported you or your team? 💬
Two occupational therapists in uniforms walking and chatting in a hospital corridor.
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 12/02/2026
We bring far more to social care than equipment & adaptations. Amy Howard explores the role of OTs in Care Act assessments, prevention & early intervention & how this supports personalised care & allows people to do the occupations they want & need to do Read more 👉 bit.ly/4tqBDNK
This image shows a person with glasses and wearing a patterned top, standing against a wooden backdrop. In the top left, the logo of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists is visible. At the bottom, a quote reads, "Early intervention, rehabilitation and environmental adaptations are all well-evidenced OT strategies that align with the Care Act's vision of prevention and personal empowerment."
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 11/02/2026
Strong UK leadership at the 19th WFOT Congress today. Karin Orman shared clear, practical insight on innovation and practice development, adding real value to global discussions about occupational therapy. #WFOT2026
Karin Orman standing at a lectern and presenting at the WFOT Congress in Bangkok.
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 09/02/2026
OT is complex, simplifying it is our strength 💚 In the RCOT Elizabeth Casson Memorial Lecture 2026, Sue Parkinson will explore how OTs break down tasks, routines and activities to help manage complexity and sustain what matters. Anyone with an interest in OT can save a spot bit.ly/49Yr1OC
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 09/02/2026
Adult social care is changing & occupational therapy needs to be visible. As the Casey Commission looks ahead - we want to hear about how OT is preventing, reducing or delaying the need for formal care, supporting people to live the lives they want. Share yours 👉 bit.ly/4bEof2j
An individual is kneeling and conversing with another person who is standing in a room. The room has a bed, dresser, and artwork on the wall. The text reads, "Adult social care is at a pivotal moment & it needs your story." The background is purple.
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 06/02/2026
4/5 occupational therapists have seen demand increase in our new research. Over half can’t provide the needed equipment/adaptations, leaving many people waiting months. We’re using this evidence to drive action 🔗 bit.ly/4qV62SH
rcot.co.uk
UK OT Workforce 2024–25: results now published in BJOT
The UK OT Workforce Survey 2024–25 is now published in the British Journal of Occupational Therapy (BJOT). Findings reveal rising demand, high stress, limited career progression and growing interest i...
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 04/02/2026
We’ve published our Manifesto ahead of the Holyrood 2026 elections, setting out six practical priorities to strengthen prevention, rehabilitation & community care in Scotland. Read the Manifesto & share it with your networks, local candidates & system leaders 👉 bit.ly/4qXElZF #Holyrood26
rcot.co.uk
Scotland 2026: Six steps to a healthier nation
Occupational therapists support people at every stage of life. Our six asks outline the action Scotland needs to strengthen services and improve outcomes.
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 02/02/2026
Race Equality Week exists to turn awareness into action. 🤝 With this year’s theme #ChangeNeedsAllOfUs, we’re reminded that progress happens when everyone plays a part. We’re taking part in the 5-Day Challenge, focusing on learning & everyday actions that help build a more inclusive workplace.
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 01/02/2026
21 years of #LGBTHistoryMonth 🌍 Science & Innovation is the theme highlighting the impact LGBTQIA+ people have had on everyday life, from healthcare & technology. While recognising the past harms they have faced through the misapplication of science & why inclusive voices matter for the future 🙌
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Royal College of Occupational Therapists @thercot.bsky.social · 30/01/2026
94% of fit notes still say 'not fit for work' and that’s a missed opportunity. OTs are well placed to shift to 'may be fit' with the right support. This session builds confidence using fit notes in practice. Join here 👉 bit.ly/4t46n74
Advertisement for RCOT's Fit note training session, featuring an image of a person writing a note with a pen on a desk. Event details: Build confidence in fit note conversations; 12:00pm - 1:30pm, Thursday 5 February 2026.
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