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The global OT community, in your pocket. We are excited to provide you educative occupational therapy tools and resources, in app form! 'The OT Hub' App is available to download on Android devices, via Google Play - and iOS devices, via the App Store . Why join us over on the app? Convenience and ease Simple design and interface makes browsing and learning easier. Community support Quickly engage with Members. Contact the Hub Team via Chat. Personalised content View Free and/or Plus+ resources, depending on your plan. iOS devices Please note Due to Apple's policy update, Members using iPhones or iPads are unable to upgrade to Membership Plus+ or purchase items in the Hub Store directly on the Hub App . Both of these actions can be done via the mobile or desk/laptop site. Once upgraded, Plus+ resources will then be visible on your iOS app. Available now Hub App Queries or feedback regarding The OT Hub App? Contact us

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< Specialisms Resources + Services Portal Occupational Science + Useful resources and services, for your care and career. This is an expanding directory and community suggestions are not definitive. K now of a resource or service that should be featured? Suggest an entry Occupational Science Europe The aim of Occupational Science Europe is to support the development of occupational science throughout Europe. OSE aims to be a vibrant community for all people with an interest in occupational science. Anyone can join, it is free of charge and has no formal registration process. It aims to be a multidisciplinary group and it actively encourages the involvement of many disciplines. Visit >

< Specialisms Resources + Services Portal Health Promotion + Useful resources and services, for your care and career. This is an expanding directory and community suggestions are not definitive. K now of a resource or service that should be featured? Suggest an entry 'Preparing Physical and Occupational Therapists to be Health Promotion Practitioners: A Call for Action' International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health Published: February 2018. Volume 15, Issue 2. Article authors: Morris, D. and Jenkins, G.R. Abstract 'Experts around the world support the integration of health promotion and wellness (HPW) services into traditional health care services. If successfully executed, the addition of HPW services would reduce rates of death and disability and significantly reduce health care costs. While all health care providers should be engaged in providing HPW services, many believe that physical therapists (PTs) and occupational therapists (OTs) are uniquely positioned to provide these services. However, research suggests that clinicians in both fields may fall short in doing so. Likewise, research indicates that entry-level educational programs inadequately prepare PT and OT students to be HPW practitioners. The overall purpose of this paper is to provide recommendations to educators for preparing PT and OT students and clinicians to better meet the HPW needs of the clients and patients they serve.' ​ This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License , which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. ​ [INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL; UNIVERSAL ACCESS] Visit > Institute for Sex, Intimacy and Occupational Therapy We are an education business with a mission to help guide occupational therapy professionals to becoming more competent and confident addressing sexuality and intimacy in their clinical practice. We offer educational webinars to help clinicians translate knowledge into clinical practice. Through the Institute for Sex, Intimacy and Occupational Therapy, we are building a coalition of sex and intimacy OT champions, to dismantle the restrictive norms around discussing sexuality and intimacy. Join us! ​ [US-BASED RESOURCE; INFORMATION APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Mental Health at Work (Mind) Whether you work with 10 people, 10,000 people or just yourself, paying attention to mental health in the workplace has never been more important. Mental Health at Work is here to help you find the information and resources you need. ​ Mental Health at Work is curated by Mind , the mental health charity, and funded by The Royal Foundation as part of their Heads Together campaign. ​ [UK-BASED RESOURCE; INFORMATION APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > MyLiferaft MyLiferaft is an online place for an individual’s health and well-being information that helps to connect them to you and others in their care circle. All their information is stored safely and easily, allowing only those that they choose to be able to access it. It’s not just about the facts and figures; they can store information such as “I love a cup of tea with my medication!” or “I’m scared of injections!” This allows those that care for them to know what helps them to feel better, and their care circle to feel better informed to support them. ​ [UK: SOUTHAMPTON-BASED SERVICE; AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE] Visit >

The Occupational Therapy Hub - We believe in the power of occupation for health and wellbeing The Occupational Therapy Hub - We believe in the power of occupation for health and wellbeing The Occupational Therapy Hub - We believe in the power of occupation for health and wellbeing The Occupational Therapy Hub - We believe in the power of occupation for health and wellbeing 1/15 We believe in the power of occupation for health & well-being Your global occupational therapy community The platform and app run by Occupational Therapists. Shaped by 20,300+ Members , in 195 countries. News + Latest Free Membership Membership Plus+ Passionately empowering clinicians, students and those they support The Mission To show the world the value of our health and social care profession . ​ To share knowledge and resources, across an international community. To provide a community of practice, reducing geographical and professional isolation. On upgrading to Membership Plus+ : "I'm really looking forward to getting stuck in to the resources, as they look fantastic. Thank you for your hard work on The Occupational Therapy Hub." ​ ​ Carina (email, 2024) Testimonials Community dashboard Catherine Lipinskis 4d Dissertation support Aarti Brahmbhatt Apr 23 OT placement Verity Jones Mar 21 Research with Paediatric Occupational Therapists Amy Patterson Apr 20 Children & Young People with Chronic Pain Gill Court Jan 19, 2022 OT practitioners working in Domestic Abuse - making connections? ek.dawson Apr 15, 2022 OT and early intervention in psychosis (EIP) - UK help please!? Jens190301 Apr 02 Average day as a MH OT Jens190301 Mar 26 Counselling ba degree to OT MSc 2 year course. Maria Lönn Feb 28, 2023 Childrens experiences of weighted blankets as a sleep intervention – what can we learn from children with ADHD? Latest OT CPD Courses (Plus+) Sleep: An Occupational Therapy Domain 2 Plans Available Join ADHD and Occupational Therapy 2 Plans Available Join Therapy Article Highlights Reflective Journals Reflections on the Rebirth of an Artist A Day in the Life 'Drawing back the covers' on the OT role in sleep: An article and podcast Reflective Journals People doing things: Reflections of an OT in the field of rare diseases Hub News Hub News Poll So, what do you think? Shaped by Members every day, the Hub is your global community of practice. So, to focus our efforts in developing OT resources that are most useful to you , we ask you to consider submitting opinions and/or constructive feedback in 2024's Membership Poll . We will upgrade a random participant's account for free, regardless of their answers or ratings given. The poll takes just a few minutes. It will close on Sunday 30th June . In advance, thank you for helping to make this the best occupational therapy community possible! 28/04/2024 Membership Poll 2024 Plus+ Dementia in Australia: Clinical recommendations post-diagnosis (2024) Over 400,000 Australians are thought to be living with dementia; this number is expected to double by 2058. The recommendations in this research can help individuals, families and healthcare providers to navigate this difficult time. Upgraded to Plus+ ? Read the 2024 discussion paper now, within the Development and Ageing theme of the Research Portal. 27/04/2024 Research Portal (Plus+) Plus+ Research: The i mpact of assistance dogs on the occupational engagement of children with autism and their families ‘Having the dog as part of our family gives us hope’. Assistance dogs reportedly progressed children from community ‘isolation' to freedom. Plus+ Members c an learn about the three identified themes and explore the 2024 study's findings, within the Neurodiversity section of the Research Portal. 22/04/2024 Research Portal (Plus+) Free New article: Reflections on the Rebirth of an Artist This story of 'S', who had a spinal cord injury, exemplifies the transformative impact of rehabilitation and the strength of the human spirit. As healthcare professionals, it is our privilege and responsibility to empower such individuals, to reclaim their independence and pursue their passions - irrespective of the challenges they may face... Read this and other educative and reflective articles here - or via The OT Hub app . 14/04/2024 Therapy Articles Free Watch: Perinatal Occupational Therapy What is perinatal mental health and how can occupational therapists help both mums and dads over this testing transition period? Watch a TV interview with OTR/L Hayle to find out! Access this (and other) educative and informative videos right here - or on-the-go, via The OT Hub app . [Video credit: ND Today]. 10/04/2024 Therapy Videos Plus+ Researcher Seeks to Improve Motor and Cognitive Function in Children with Autism "OT interventions can be effective in changing brain performance... We rewire the brain by utilising strategies that enable it to process sensory information in a more functional manner... Strategies can be specifically designed to motivate and engage children, while addressing their unique sensory-motor, psychosocial and cognitive-behavioural needs." Access the latest news and stories from the profession worldwide, with Membership Plus+ . 06/04/2024 OT Updates (Plus+)

< Specialisms Resources + Services Portal Social Media + Useful resources and services, for your care and career. This is an expanding directory and community suggestions are not definitive. K now of a resource or service that should be featured? Suggest an entry 3 Ways Social Media Revolutionized Medical Care Social media has inarguably taken the world by storm. From Twitter to Facebook, users worldwide are more connected now more than ever, and the healthcare industry has not been left out. People are actively discussing health issues on social media, sharing experiences and engaging with healthcare professionals. Visit > ACOTRO: Social Media for Occupational Therapists Social media use by healthcare professionals » Benefits and risks of healthcare professionals using social media » Ontario Survey of Social Media use by OTs » Principles for Good Social Media Use in OT practice » Story of Successful Social Media in Practice Visit > Current Opinion in Psychology: Online, social media and mobile technologies for psychosis treatment: A systematic review on novel user-led interventions Social Media and Body Image Concerns: Current Research and Future Directions Visit > Current Opinion in Psychology: Social media and applications to health behavior • Social media presents an unprecedented opportunity to change health through online influence. • Of all the platforms available, Facebook features most commonly in health behavior change research. • Twitter , online communities and apps are increasingly appearing in health research. • Randomized controlled trials investigating the efficacy of social media for health are rare. • Continued research is required to refine the application of social media for better health. Visit > Current Opinion in Psychology: Social media, big data, and mental health: current advances and ethical implications Most AYA cancer survivors use social media, yet scholarly efforts to examine utility for supporting AYA survivors have only emerged recently. In addition to intervention development, research must consider prominent online communities (e.g., Facebook Groups) devoted to cancer-related needs. Innovative observational methods (e.g., NLP assisted data mining) complement traditional approaches to help understand actual use of social media communities for AYA survivors Visit > Current Opinion in Psychology: Using Facebook for health-related research study recruitment and program delivery There is much potential for use of Facebook in health-related research and program delivery We review studies that have used Facebook to recruit diverse samples and deliver programs Facebook studies have generally reported success with recruitment Recommendations for researchers interested in using Facebook are discussed Visit > Forbes: Can Social Media Have A Positive Impact On Global Healthcare? There really isn’t an area where social media hasn’t had an impact. People use social media to share opinions, seek information, and share stories about their experiences. Healthcare hasn’t been excluded from this in any way. In fact, 60% of doctors see social media as an avenue for delivering better healthcare to patients. Of course, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t concerns. For instance, the ways that people choose to use Facebook can lead to negative outcomes. Visit > Healthcare Weekly: Healthcare Social Media Strategy: 5 Ways to Build Trust As customers increasingly take to social media, healthcare organizations should follow their lead. ​ Social media in healthcare refers to the various tactics healthcare organizations, payers and providers leverage to connect & engage with their patients in order to improve quality of care and decrease readmission rates. Visit > How to Use Social Media in Healthcare: A Guide for Health Professionals Modern lives are going digital, and healthcare is no exception. Social networks have become an important health resource, and not just for millenials. Nearly 90 percent of older adults have used social media to seek and share health information. It can be hard to know how to navigate the healthcare social media rules. Providers, agencies, and brands need to create informative, engaging social content. At the same time, you need to follow industry rules and regulations. In this post, we look at the many benefits of using social media in healthcare. We also provide some tips on how to keep your social channels compliant and secure. Visit > P&T: Social Media and Health Care Professionals: Benefits, Risks, and Best Practices Many social media tools are available for health care professionals (HCPs), including social networking platforms, blogs, microblogs, wikis, media-sharing sites, and virtual reality and gaming environments.1 –8 These tools can be used to improve or enhance professional networking and education, organizational promotion, patient care, patient education, and public health programs.3 ,5 –10 However, they also present potential risks to patients and HCPs regarding the distribution of poor-quality information, damage to professional image, breaches of patient privacy, violation of personal–professional boundaries, and licensing or legal issues Visit > RCOT: Introduction to social media Guidance from the RCOT on good practice by Occupational Therapists on the use of social media. Visit > Schizophrenia Research Social media use is consistently and positively associated with negative body image Longitudinal studies suggest that this association may strengthen over time Brief exposure to Facebook does not appear to negatively impact body image Appearance comparisons are important in the link between social media and body image Research on more diverse samples and other social media platforms is needed Visit >

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< Specialisms Resources + Services Portal Older People + Useful resources and services, for your care and career. This is an expanding directory and community suggestions are not definitive. K now of a resource or service that should be featured? Suggest an entry AccessAble The UK's leading provider of access information. Providing independence and choice. On our website you'll find detailed access information to thousands of venues across the UK and the Republic of Ireland: shops, pubs, restaurants, cinemas, theatres, railway stations, hotels, universities, hospitals and more. ​ Our mission is to maximise independence and choice for disabled people in accessing their local area and the places we all want to visit. We work on behalf of Local Authorities, top Universities, NHS Trusts and private sector organisations to publish detailed access information on well over 125,000 places of interest across the UK and the Republic of Ireland. We also have a number of prominent strategic partnerships, particularly in the travel and tourism sector, with organisations such as Visit England, Visit London (London & Partners/Greater London Authority), Tourism For All and Open Britain. Developed by disabled people, for disabled people . ​ ​ We go the extra mile because disabled people have told us: a venue which self-reports its access can all too often miss, overlook or fail to appreciate the reality of the access they provide the majority of venues do not have the expertise or the time to go into the detail that many disabled people need to have to make an effective judgement about the suitability of access. Finally because what’s accessible for one person is not necessarily accessible for another, our independence means “we say as we see it”, providing the facts so you can make an informed choice. ​ [UK SERVICE] Visit > Alzheimer Scotland - Action on Dementia Alzheimer Scotland is the leading dementia organisation in Scotland. We campaign for the rights of people with dementia and their families. We provide a wide range of specialist services, community activities, information and advice - for people with dementia and their carers, at every stage of the dementia journey. ​ [UK SERVICE; AVAILABLE ACROSS SCOTLAND] Visit > Beyond Accessibility Beyond Accessibility is created by a team of therapists who specialise in how people live in the home environment. We create and publish home modification information for OTs, healthcare professionals, home owners and contractors. We are passionate about finding practical solutions to everyday problems at home that go beyond making environments accessible. Our goal is to connect people with quality resources to improve how people live by implementing customised solutions to everyday problems at home. We are a US-based resource, but the majority of our content is appropriate worldwide. Visit us online: beyondaccessibility.com Facebook: facebook.com/beyondaccessibility/ Email: beyondaccessibility@paigehays.net [US-BASED; RESOURCES APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Bristol Older Peoples Forum BOPFs aim is that every older person in the city is an equal, valued, participating member of the community who can influence the decisions which affect their lives. (Read more on the About Us pages). Our manifesto , launched in 2016, sets out the priorities in achieving our aim through influencing key providers and decision makers in the city, and by working with others. It is fully supported by Mayor Marvin Rees, Kerry McCarthy MP, many councillors and others. Please read it and let us know what you think – it belongs to all older people in the city. Visit > CareFlex CareFlex offers an expert, free, no-obligation assessment service, to ensure the client gets the right chair to meet their needs; considering the key criteria: posture and stability, functionality, pressure relief and, of course, comfort. Our chairs are custom built in Devon, by a workforce that has a strong sense of responsibility to provide well-made chairs that will last. We are an ethical company - not solely profit focused - and we want to make a difference. Through providing pioneering, high quality products and education, we want every individual to have access to the best possible posture and pressure management product for them – to improve their quality of life and provide reassurance for their care providers. ​ In recent clinical trials by the University of Salford, our chairs were found to be comfortable and to aid occupation and feelings of wellbeing. Our WaterCell Technology® - which is at the heart of our seating - proved to be effective. It provides a reliable and continuous low-pressure solution, for people at medium to high risk of pressure damage. Remember, 95% of pressure ulcers are preventable, which can save considerable pain and anguish for patients - and save the NHS literally billions of pounds a year. ​ [UK-BASED; SERVICES AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Enabling activity in palliative care: focus groups among occupational therapists BMC Palliative Care (Open Access) ​ Authors : Tavemark, S., Hermansson, L.N. and Blomberg, K. Published : 7 February 2019 ABSTRACT ​ Background Activity participation may support clients in palliative care to maintain dignity and quality of life. Literature and policy documents state that occupational therapists should be part of the team in palliative care but provide limited guidance on how interventions should be employed. Thus, the aim was to describe occupational therapists’ experiences of enabling activity for seriously ill and dying clients. ​ Methods In a descriptive, qualitative study, three focus groups with occupational therapists (n = 14) were conducted. The data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. ​ Results The findings showed that occupational therapists enabled activity in clients in palliative care while considering the client’s individual preferences. Motivation was seen to facilitate activity, while environmental restrictions were thought to act as barriers. The occupational therapists wanted to bring activities physically closer to the clients and felt a need for more client contact to enable activity. ​ Conclusions Occupational therapists’ interventions in palliative care include prioritising and planning activities according to clients’ preferences and capacities. The individual nature of these activities makes it impossible to create standardised protocol for interventions, but the study results can be used to describe occupational therapists’ strategies and to guide their work, especially for occupational therapists without experience in palliative care. Visit > Mental Capacity Act - e-Learning course (SCIE) This resource from the Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE) explores the UK's Mental Capacity Act 2005. It includes best interests decision-making, and how to support people to make their own decisions. The course is for everyone who looks after or cares for someone, for example, doctors, nurses, care assistants, social workers, and family members. ​ [UK ORGANISATION; E-LEARNING COURSE RELEVANT WORLDWIDE] Visit > Muggi Muggi is an innovative new product which enables hot and cold drinks to be carried safely in any environment. This unique tray enables up to four mugs to be carried safely in one hand, leaving the other hand free to support the user. Muggi also fits on to walking frames and can be conveniently placed on the lap of wheelchair users. It catches unwanted spillages and features non-slip rubber feet; finger and thumb holds make it easy to carry for young or old hands. An increasing number of occupational therapists, sufferers of Parkinson’s, arthritis and wheelchair users are finding muggi invaluable in their daily lives. Made from lightweight, but extremely tough Polypropylene, muggi comes in seven vibrant colours blue, grey, red, purple, green, pink, a black recycled material. Visit > MyLiferaft MyLiferaft is an online place for an individual’s health and well-being information that helps to connect them to you and others in their care circle. All their information is stored safely and easily, allowing only those that they choose to be able to access it. It’s not just about the facts and figures; they can store information such as “I love a cup of tea with my medication!” or “I’m scared of injections!” This allows those that care for them to know what helps them to feel better, and their care circle to feel better informed to support them. ​ [UK: SOUTHAMPTON-BASED SERVICE; AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE] Visit > OT Flourish OT Flourish helps OT practitioners and students be the best they can be when working with older adults. We do this through: The Learning Lab Membership: helping you be skilled, creative, current & have the resources you need with hundreds of treatment idea videos, lists and links to patient handouts, tools, assessments, and evaluations, a journal club, exclusive community forum and fun bonuses - just for being a member! OT Flourish Podcast: showcasing relevant interviews, answering questions, current articles and hot topics, but also to getting OT practitioners excited about working with older adults, give actionable ideas that listeners can take and use in their own practice and have some fun along the way! OT Resources: find the CEU discounts, e-books, handouts, forms and products that you have been looking for to ramp up your practice! Blog: free treatment ideas, education and resources to learn, relate and grow as an OT practitioner and student. Connect with OT Flourish via mchamberlain@seniorsflourish.com , or social media. [US-BASED RESOURCE; AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Seating Matters Together with a team of clinicians, engineers and designers, Seating Matters have designed the world’s leading range of specialised seating, to improve comfort and quality of life for those with postural and pressure management needs. Martina Tierney - Occupational Therapist and Clinical Director - has specialised in seating throughout her career. However, she struggled to find chairs to meet the clinical and functional needs of her patients. Martina realised that her patients needed pressure care chairs which were designed to properly fit the patient’s size and were easily adjustable in order to meet their long term needs. She and her team design and produce therapeutic chairs that meet pressure management, posture, comfort, mobility and functional requirements. ​​ Her sons have created a person-centred organisation that has the patient at the heart of every decision. To change the world of healthcare seating, Seating Matters are increasing the knowledge available and sharing it freely, to improve patient care and encourage evidence based practice. [IRELAND-BASED; SERVICES AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Sheffield Shamblers Do you enjoy walking but want to do this at a leisurely pace? Fed up with walking groups that want to beat the clock over the distance of the walk? Or maybe you are new to walking and fear that you won't be able to keep up with experienced walkers? Then come and join the Sheffield Shamblers walking group! Health walks are an ideal introduction to walking for those who haven't been walking before, are bored at home, or perhaps recovering from an illness or operation. We are a group of people of all ages, from every walk of life, who enjoy walking and having a good time. Pleasant company and a good sense of humour is essential on all our walks. If you are looking for formal walks organised with military precision and strict codes of conduct, then this club is not for you! Dogs are welcome, but must be kept on a lead at all times. ​ [UK: SHEFFIELD ORGANISATION] Visit > Stroke Core Competencies - Stroke Training and Awareness Resources (STARS) This e-learning resource provides a learning tool for health and social care staff to enable them to become more knowledgeable and skilful in the challenging area of stroke care. The resource is based on the Stroke Core Competencies which were published by NHS Education for Scotland (NES) in 2005. ​ The website provides a multidisciplinary resource which focuses on a wide range of core knowledge and skills required by all staff when delivering stroke care. The Core Competencies provide an interactive way of learning with quizzes, animations, video clips, and case scenarios. ​ + Stroke Advancing Modules > ​ [UK TRAINING RESOURCE; AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Tir Coed Tir Coed is a charity and social enterprise that engages people with woodlands, through volunteering, training and bespoke activities that develop skills and improve woodlands for the benefit of everyone. ​ Vision: Thriving sustainable rural communities integrated with the natural environment. Mission: To unlock the potential of woodlands to provide a community facility, educational and health activities, and to create job opportunities for disadvantaged individuals in rural Wales. With the aim to make positive lasting change. ​ Over the past 16 years Tir Coed has developed a comprehensive engagement model that supports people as they develop, from first step engagement through to employment. All of the work carried out by volunteers and trainees improves the health of the woodland and its accessibility for the benefit of the whole community. ​ [UK: WALES ORGANISATION] Visit >

< Specialisms Resources + Services Portal Accessing Therapists + Useful resources and services, for your care and career. This is an expanding directory and community suggestions are not definitive. K now of a resource or service that should be featured? Suggest an entry Enable Therapy Services Promoting the use of rehabilitation and early intervention. Our services are delivered by our UK-wide network of over 120 highly qualified Occupational Therapists, working together with our dedicated office based clinical coordinators – providing rehabilitation and vocational case management. All ETS Occupational Therapists have the knowledge and experience to provide a wide range of rehabilitation reports, assessments and rehabilitation case management. Our wide range of rehabilitation services provide our referrers with one point of contact to ensure continuity of the rehabilitation process; from early intervention until clients reach their optimal recovery, in activities of daily living, social, leisure and return to work. Our comprehensive vocational rehabilitation services are dovetailed with each client’s rehabilitation programme, so that they are supported with advice and guidance throughout their return to work. ​ [UK: LEEDS-BASED; SERVICES AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE] Visit > NHS 24 NHS 24 is the national provider of digital and telephone based health and care services for Scotland. We provide people with access to information, care and advice through multiple channels including telephone, web and online. We work in collaboration with partners, the public and our people to co-design services using technology and a digital first approach to sustainable service development and delivery. ​ Our Services 111; Health Information and Support Services (NHS inform ; Care Information Scotland ; Quit Your Way ); Scheduled Care Services (including MSK telephone advice and triage service ); Scottish Emergency Dental Service; Breathing Space ; NHS Living Life . Visit > OT360 Professional Supervision Royal College of Occupational Therapists, the Health and Care Professions Council and the Care Quality Commission and all agree: expert supervision is essential for all registered care providers. So if you chose to have supervision how will we work together? That is largely up to you. I have years of experience of supervising OTs, building great working relationships and working hard to tackle your issues, dilemmas or problems. I understand the need to be flexible, so we will work together to find a pattern of meetings that works for you. And, of course, after every session you will receive a summary and action plan, as well as evidence of each HCPC standard, so you are always ready for the HCPC audit. How often we meet is up to you. Most people find that one or two hours a month works well. We can meet monthly, bimonthly or whatever works. Simply email me and suggest dates and times, and we can make arrangements. And of course we can talk in person or on the phone. Have a look at my website, read about who I already work with, and what they say about my work. ​ Margaret Spencer MA Consultant Occupational Therapist and Senior Lecturer ​ [UK-BASED OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST] Visit > OTCoach OTCoach inspiring and supporting OTs to develop creative and courageous OT practice. OTCoach has been working with individual OTs, OT services and educators since 2005, during which time we have seen the amazing power of a “coach approach.” Interest in coaching in occupational therapy continues to grow, as both professions aim to help people live their lives with balance and purpose. We “coach” OTs themselves and also help OTs develop a coaching approach to their work. ​ Twitter: @OTCoachUK Facebook: facebook.com/OTCoach Linked In: linkedin.com/in/jengash Purchase our OTCoaching book [BRISTOL/SW ENGLAND BASED; COACHING AVAILABLE UK-WIDE] Visit > Seirrah Occupational Therapy Based in our clinic in Cardiff, South Wales, Seirrah OT is a private provider of occupational therapy services for individuals aged 0 to 25 years of age with developmental challenges in their movement, play, learning, and behaviour. As part of our wider services we also work across the UK in homes, schools, and community settings to provide assessment, advice, treatment, and training. Each individual we work with receives a tailored programme according to his or her needs with our treatment programmes being fun and engaging. Our team enable each individual person overcome difficulties they are experiencing by increasing their motivation and adopting a “there’s no limits” approach. ​ [S.WALES-BASED; UK-WIDE] Visit > Solutions for Living - Entwistle Power Occupational Therapy Solutions for Living works proactively and compassionately with disabled and injured people to help them improve their functional independence in important life roles. At home, work, in the community or during leisure pursuits, our Mission is to provide people with disabilities solutions for living. In this way, they can have hope for a better future, are empowered towards independence, and succeed in pursuing functional goals. Our Vision is that occupational therapy becomes recognised for all that it is and all that it can offer as a comprehensive and cost-effective health care solution. Further, our firm, driven by caring, passion and integrity, will lead in the delivery of these services across Ontario. ​ [CANADA: ONTARIO SERVICE] Visit > The OT Practice The OT Practice has the largest team of independent occupational therapists in the UK, specialising in providing high quality services nationwide to private, statutory and business clients. Our practice is based on our reputation for building trusted relationships with our clients, and we are always looking for talented individuals to join our team. ​ Whether you are thinking about taking the first steps into private practice or are an experienced private practitioner, working with us could be just the answer. If you aren’t sure where to start, we can guide you through the process and provide tools to help manage your workload. Our office-based client management team help find, allocate and administer cases, leaving you time to focus on providing clients with the highest level of care. ​ [UK: HAMPSHIRE-BASED; SERVICES AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE] Visit >

< Specialisms Resources + Services Portal Paediatrics + Useful resources and services, for your care and career. This is an expanding directory and community suggestions are not definitive. K now of a resource or service that should be featured? Suggest an entry Developmental Occupational Therapy The Play and Early Learning Handouts have been developed by DOT(WA) to demonstrate ideas using photos to promote the development of play and early learning skills for children. The ideas provided are fun, easy to include in normal everyday activities and are suitable for a range of ages and abilities. It is recommended the handouts be used in consultation with an occupational therapist or another professional with experience working with children. Funding for the development of these handouts was kindly provided by Non-Government Centre Support (NGCS). Susan Peirce, Occupational Therapist was appointed as the Project Officer to develop the handouts and is the principal author, having consulted with an expert panel of Occupational therapists: Leigh Dix, Jenny Dobe and Jodie Mazzucchelli; members of DOT(WA) Executive Committee: Rachael Fallows and Suzanne Wilkinson as well as more widely with the membership of DOT(WA). Thanks are extended to the children and their parents who agreed to have their photos included in the handouts and to the professionals and friends who contributed to the handouts by providing valuable feedback. Visit > Double Time Docs Double Time Docs was developed by an experienced occupational therapist and software developer. Jason Gonzales has 18 years of experience in school-based occupational therapy in various US states, including New York, New Jersey, Massachusettes, California and Hawaii. Scott Leisawitz is a web and software developer with 20 years of experience, who has worked with many of the biggest brands in the world, including Motorola, IBM, GE and more. Jason found a need and envisioned an idea of how to solve it and Scott made it into a reality. Working as a team, Jason and Scott developed Double Time Docs, so that occupational, physical and speech therapists can write an individualised narrative report in a fraction of the time. Visit > Helping Hands Educational Resources Our mission: For all children to reach their full potential. Helping Hands Educational Resources is designed to help educate your children. We have taken the hard work out of it for you. We offer maths, literacy and fun activities. All items are personally made for you when you place an order. If you have an idea you want made, we will work alongside you to achieve this. [AUSTRALIA-BASED; DELIVERS WORLDWIDE] Visit > Impact Learning Impact Learning is a training company directed at paediatric healthcare professionals, teachers and parents. We offer workshops and training accredited with the Health and Allied Health Professionals Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and (AHPCSA). We are currently applying for accreditation with the South African Council for Educators (SACE), encouraging all professionals to keep up to date with their CPD and CPTD points. ​ Impact Learning’s vision is to bring all health and educational professions the latest key trends in Paediatric Medical Health Updates, Ethics and Paediatric Development . Presenters who are in the forefront of their fields offer practical take-home advice and ideas for the medical practice, therapy environment, home and classroom. ​ [S.AFRICA; JOHANNESBURG-BASED] Visit > Life skills 4 Kids Deb Hopper, our experienced in-house Occupational Therapist brings her passion and experience of over 20 years of working with children and youth. Deb and our team just want to be there with you on the ground and provide you with the best evidenced-based resources and empower you with high quality best practice knowledge, to help children with a range of difficulties - including children with autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorder and learning difficulties. Visit > Look Hear Australia Look Hear Australia focuses on bringing the top resources and resource pages, on children with complex and additional needs, together under one site. Our motto is "it's not hard to make it easy" and we strive to make the search for quality information, programs, equipment and resources easy. [AUSTRALIA-BASED RESOURCE; INFORMATION APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Occupational Therapy For Parents & Carers A digital resource for parents, caregivers, educators and health and social care professionals seeking expert guidance and tools to support children’s success in everyday activities. The library houses an extensive collection of articles, videos, interactive activities and downloadable resources. These OT tools and strategies have been designed and published by the Norfolk & Waveney Paediatric Occupational Therapy Service. They aim to provide advice, strategies and equipment ideas to support children develop independence in everyday skills and to promote successful participation in both school and home life. [UK-BASED; ONLINE RESOURCES AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > OccupationalTherapyOT.com An occupational therapy blog by Occupational Therapists Deepam Pawar and Payal Mehta Pawar, who trained in Nagpur, India. This site can be referred as OT resources for therapists, educators, special needs teachers, and parents/caregivers and other health care professionals. A resource for parents who are looking for occupational therapy activities that can be done at home and with household materials. Skill areas include fine motor, gross motor, sensory strategies, and cognitive strategies. This blog also has information about common disorders in which Occupational Therapists deal, including autism, ADHD, learning disability, cerebral palsy and Down’s Syndrome. [INDIA-BASED; RESOURCES APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Off The Record (Bristol) Off The Record, OTR Bristol opened its doors in 1965 and can justifiably claim to be one of the oldest established young people's mental health services in the country. ​ We run services and projects to promote and improve mental health and wellbeing for young people in Bristol and South Gloucestershire. All of them are delivered by a team of super-friendly staff and volunteers and have been designed with the help of young people. Our team come from a wide range of backgrounds and work in a variety of ways. They’ve all been chosen to work at OTR because whatever technique they have trained in, they will listen and won’t judge. ​ Aims To support young people to empower and intellectually defend themselves through the provision of mental health services and development work To promote positive mental health and the resilience of all young people To challenge the wider social and structural inequalities that lead to poorer mental health and life chances ​ [UK: BRISTOL CHARITY] Visit > Paediatrics and Occupational Therapy: What you need to know (Understood.org) Understood.org is a website that addresses learning and attention issues. ​ 'Occupational therapy, or OT, can help people of all ages do the activities of daily living (ADLs) they struggle to do. Occupational therapy for children can lead to big benefits, especially for kids with learning and attention issues. OT can help kids who struggle with everyday fine and gross motor tasks, like using a toothbrush, writing on a chalkboard and organising a backpack. It can also help kids who struggle with self-regulation and sensory processing issues. Here’s what you need to know about occupational therapy in a paediatric setting.... Read more > ​ [FOUNDED IN THE US; INFORMATION APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Raising Superstar Kids with ADHD In this guidebook on parenting children with ADHD, you'll discover: Game-changing strategies to make everyday life with ADHD easier for both you and your child A closer look at ADHD and how it affects the brain How to make sure you get the right diagnosis and the disorders commonly mistaken for ADHD Methods to help your child manage their symptoms long-term with medical and non-medical ADHD interventions How to help your child make friends and improve social skills, including how ADHD impacts your child’s social development Techniques to help your child manage intense emotions without tantrums - plus tips on expressing gratitude, building pride, and extending compassion for others The ADHD superpowers your child has, and how you can nurture these qualities in them The crucial role of routines in your child’s daily life - including a sample routine you can easily follow and apply How to set your child up for school success - and why it’s important to get teachers and classmates involved Visit > Seirrah Occupational Therapy Based in our clinic in Cardiff, South Wales, Seirrah OT is a private provider of occupational therapy services for individuals aged 0 to 25 years of age with developmental challenges in their movement, play, learning, and behaviour. As part of our wider services we also work across the UK in homes, schools, and community settings to provide assessment, advice, treatment, and training. Each individual we work with receives a tailored programme according to his or her needs with our treatment programmes being fun and engaging. Our team enable each individual person overcome difficulties they are experiencing by increasing their motivation and adopting a 'there’s no limits' approach. [S.WALES-BASED; UK SERVICE] Visit > Special Supplies Special Supplies was founded with a goal to address the difficulty parents and educators encounter when attempting to find reliable, safe and effective tools for children with special needs. We discovered that, by doing our due diligence to ensure that our products were effective and safe, we were taking a load off the shoulders of those most invested in the well-being of these children. All of our products are selected by a team of parents and experienced therapists, which helps us ensure we provide the very best in Oral Motor, Fine Motor, Gross Motor, Daily Living, School and Sensory products. Our team is dedicated to providing customers with the best selection of products for children and adults with special needs. Our passion is not only to raise awareness about the issues facing those with autistic and sensory integration needs, but to offer a therapeutic solution at an affordable price. ​ [US-WIDE SERVICE] Visit > The Happy Handwriter We provide the knowledge and tools to empower you, to help your child master fine motor and handwriting challenges. With resources developed, designed and purchased goods by a highly experienced Occupational Therapist, have fun together as your child learns and develops. Have a closer look at The Happy Handwriter. Designed, published and sourced by an occupational therapist, The Happy Handwriter’s range ensures each aspect of fine motor, pre-handwriting and handwriting skills are established with care. Invest | Implement | Improve ​ [S.AFRICA-BASED; APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > The OT Strategist Kendra Garcia COTA/L, ECHM - The OT Strategist - is an Occupational Therapy provider specialising in the management of autism spectrum disorders, sensory integration, pervasive developmental delays, orthopaedic and other disabilities in children, from birth through young adult. Kendra is 'Amazon’s #1 bestselling author of the book Life beyond the Diagnosis. She is a public speaker, coach, Huffington Post & Autism Parenting Magazine contributor, IEP special education parent consultant, CEU instructor, autism mum and advocate. She works as a paediatric-adult occupational therapy provider.' The OT Strategist can be reached at: TheOTStrategist@gmail.com . To connect with her on social media: @TheOTStrategist (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram). Catch up on the latest articles from The OT Strategist at: bit.ly/HuffPost-OTStrategist and bit.ly/AutismParentingMag_Blog [US-BASED; INFORMATION APPLICABLE] Visit >

< Specialisms Resources + Services Portal Carer Support + Useful resources and services, for your care and career. This is an expanding directory and community suggestions are not definitive. K now of a resource or service that should be featured? Suggest an entry 100 ways to Support Recovery (Rethink Mental Illness) 100 Ways to Support Recovery is a free practical guide for mental health professionals to work in a recovery-oriented way. ​ [UK-BASED CHARITY; GUIDE APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > AccessAble The UK's leading provider of access information. Providing independence and choice. On our website you'll find detailed access information to thousands of venues across the UK and the Republic of Ireland: shops, pubs, restaurants, cinemas, theatres, railway stations, hotels, universities, hospitals and more. ​ Our mission is to maximise independence and choice for disabled people in accessing their local area and the places we all want to visit. We work on behalf of Local Authorities, top Universities, NHS Trusts and private sector organisations to publish detailed access information on well over 125,000 places of interest across the UK and the Republic of Ireland. We also have a number of prominent strategic partnerships, particularly in the travel and tourism sector, with organisations such as Visit England, Visit London (London & Partners/Greater London Authority), Tourism For All and Open Britain. Developed by disabled people, for disabled people . ​ ​ We go the extra mile because disabled people have told us: a venue which self-reports its access can all too often miss, overlook or fail to appreciate the reality of the access they provide the majority of venues do not have the expertise or the time to go into the detail that many disabled people need to have to make an effective judgement about the suitability of access. Finally because what’s accessible for one person is not necessarily accessible for another, our independence means “we say as we see it”, providing the facts so you can make an informed choice. ​ [UK SERVICE] Visit > Adult safeguarding: e-learning course (SCIE) The resource explores the following questions: ​ What is adult safeguarding and how does it affect each and every one of us? How do I recognise the types and indicators of abuse? What can I do if I suspect that someone is being harmed? What should I do if I believe someone is being harmed but the person asks me to keep the information confidential and take no action? What can I do to make it much less likely that a person might be harmed? How do I ensure that adult safeguarding is managed correctly in the context of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 ​ This e-Learning course module is free to use, however to access the course you will need a free MySCIE account. ​ [UK RESOURCE; ACCESSIBLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Borderline personality disorder: recognition and management (NICE Guidelines) This guideline makes recommendations for the treatment and management of borderline personality disorder in adults and young people (under the age of 18) who meet criteria for the diagnosis in primary, secondary and tertiary care. The guideline also covers the treatment and management of people diagnosed with emotionally unstable personality disorder based on ICD-10 criteria. ​ Clinical guideline published: 28 January 2009 [Source: NICE online ​] ​ [UK RESOURCE; INFORMATION APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Communicating with people with a learning disability (Mencap) This information is designed to provide a brief introduction to communication and the problems faced by someone with a learning disability. It also contains tips on how you can be a better communicator, and how you can help someone with a learning disability get their message across. ​ [UK CHARITY; ADVICE APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Down's Syndrome Association The only organisation in the UK focusing solely on all aspects of living successfully with Down’s syndrome. ​ [UK CHARITY; ADVICE APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Garry Burge - Asperger Syndrome and Autism Advocacy Offering personal experience, through trial and error, to help raise awareness. Garry Burge was born in Brisbane, Australia in August 1972 and was diagnosed as having Asperger Syndrome in July 1998. Being diagnosed has helped him to understand who he is as a person and explained why he was different from other people and the world around him. ​ His diagnosis helped to answer some of the following questions: ​ Why it was difficult for him to make friends His constant obsessions in trains, pocket watches, orchids and history The difficulty in not being able to fit into and adjust to the school environment Why he was bullied and teased within secondary school Experience of having depression and social isolation earlier in his life Not having a lighter side Seeing things and taking comments from other people very literally Unemployment issues and not being able to find employment Visit Garry Burge's website to find out more and learn from his experiences. This includes autism and employment, Asperger Syndrome advocacy, links and support. ​ [AUSTRALIA-BASED; INFORMATION APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Have Wheelchair Will Travel Surely we cant be the first people to do this? I kept asking our travel agent, the airline and our therapists. We certainly are not the first family with a disabled child to travel to America, but at times it felt that way. That was when the idea for this website came to me. Why not share all my research and great discoveries with others who are either, planning a trip, or are feeling nervous about giving it a go.' ​ Julie Jones combines her skills as an ex-travel consultant with her experiences travelling with her family, including her son who lives with cerebral palsy. Have Wheelchair Will Travel has an engaged community with a range of backgrounds, including people living with a disability, therapists, educators, teachers and tourism representatives. This brings a wealth of information and experience to the website and Facebook page. - Bupa Travel Blog Award: Winner - Ausmumpreneur Heart & Edge Award: Winner - ASTW Best Travel Blog: Finalist Email us: havewchairwilltravel@gmail.com Find us on Facebook: facebook.com/havewheelchairwilltravel ​ [AUSTRALIA-BASED; INFORMATION APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Mental Capacity Act: e-Learning course (SCIE) This resource explores the Mental Capacity Act 2005, including best interests decision-making, and how to support people to make their own decisions. ​ The course is for everyone who looks after or cares for someone, for example, doctors, nurses, care assistants, social workers, and family members. ​ [UK RESOURCE; ACCESSIBLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > MyLiferaft MyLiferaft is an online place for an individual’s health and well-being information that helps to connect them to you and others in their care circle. All their information is stored safely and easily, allowing only those that they choose to be able to access it. It’s not just about the facts and figures; they can store information such as “I love a cup of tea with my medication!” or “I’m scared of injections!” This allows those that care for them to know what helps them to feel better, and their care circle to feel better informed to support them. ​ [UK: SOUTHAMPTON-BASED SERVICE; AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE] Visit > National Autistic Society (UK) The leading UK charity for autistic people (including those with Asperger syndrome) and their families. Providing information, support and pioneering services, and campaign for a better world for autistic people. ​ [UK CHARITY; ADVICE APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > OccupationalTherapyOT.com An occupational therapy blog by Occupational Therapists Deepam Pawar and Payal Mehta Pawar, who trained in Nagpur, India. This site can be referred as OT resources for therapists, educators, special needs teachers, and parents/caregivers and other health care professionals. A resource for parents who are looking for occupational therapy activities that can be done at home and with household materials. Skill areas include fine motor, gross motor, sensory strategies, and cognitive strategies. This blog also has information about common disorders in which Occupational Therapists deal, including autism, ADHD, learning disability, cerebral palsy and Down’s Syndrome. ​ [FOUNDED IN INDIA; RESOURCES APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Sheffield Carers Centre (Carers Trust) Sheffield Carers Centre offers a range of support and information services to all carers in the city, looking after a relative or friend who is unable to manage alone due to disability, severe illness or frailty. The Carers Centre is a local independent charity, founded in 1993, affiliated to Carers Trust . ​ Services include:​​ Running a Carers Advisory service – a free and confidential helpline offering advice and information on all aspect of caring A weekly drop-in service Advice and information by email Specialist advice sessions on legal matters and on welfare benefits Support with gaining or maintaining employment Specialist support for young adult carers (aged 18-25) ​ [UK: SHEFFIELD SERVICE] Visit > Understanding borderline personality disorder (Mind) This booklet is for anyone experiencing borderline personality disorder (BPD). It explains what the diagnosis means and what it is like to live with BPD. It also provides information about self-care, treatment and recovery, and gives guidance on how friends and family can help. ​ [Source: Mind online ] ​ [UK CHARITY; INFORMATION APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Violence in the Occupational Therapy Workplace - Learning Module (University of Alberta) The 7 units in this module provide detailed information about violence in health care workplaces. They include a clear definition, a description of the factors that increase the risks of violence and realistic actions and resources that can be used, to prevent and manage wide-ranging forms of workplace violence. + CPD certificate available This free, online learning module was developed by Occupational Therapists, for Occupational Therapists. The work was carried out at the University of Alberta, with funding support from the Government of Alberta, Canada. We would like to thank all of the Occupational Therapists and occupational therapy students who contributed to this project - your input was invaluable. ​ [FOUNDED IN CANADA; ACCESSIBLE WORLDWIDE] Visit >

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A Career in Occupational Therapy Considering or developing occupational therapy as a career? Read on. ​ Can't find what you are looking for? Contact us , or visit the Therapy Forum . There are many reasons to choose to become an occupational therapy practitioner. A key few: Make a genuine difference to people's everyday lives - ability, meaning, roles, confidence Work with varied groups of people - children, teenagers, adults, older people; cultural and socio-economic contrasts Work in varied settings - hospitals, schools, the community, charities, prisons; statutory and private services Career flexibility - to retrain and specialise within other areas of practice This is our kind of anatomy lesson! A great advocacy image, highlighting key skills and qualities of an occupational therapy practitioner. Graphic created by student OT Maddy Bell ( @happylittleot on Instagram) in 2022. Why choose occupational therapy as a career? There are a breadth of reasons to choose to become an occupational therapist. Below are a key few: Making a genuine difference to people's everyday lives - meaning, roles, confidence, ability Working with varied groups of people - children, teenagers, adults, the elderly; cultural and socio-economic contrasts Working in varied settings - hospitals, schools, the community, charities, prisons; statutory and private services Having career flexibility, to retrain and specialise within other areas of practice This video provides insights into why others chose this career path: [Source: Royal College of Occupational Therapists] The Occupational Therapy Africa Regional Group (OTARG) share this short video clip. It highlights that, to be truly fulfilled and successful in the world of occupational therapy, you must have a passion for the work you are doing: [Credit: OTARG] OTARG is a non-profit professional organisation for occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants, occupational therapy technicians and students in Africa, aiming to promote OT in Africa. In universities across Canada, occupational therapy students took part in the 'gOT Spirit Challenge', an annual competition to promote the profession. Watch this lighthearted, lively entry from Queen's University: [Source: Queen's University 2016; YouTube - Dustin Thatcher] What makes a successful occupational therapy practitioner? Key skills, abilities and knowledge A warm bedside manner Excellent rapport-building Excellent communication skills​​​​​​ Knowledge of psychology Sensitivity and understanding Ability to use your initiative Flexible and open to change Knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses Patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations Ability to design and develop individual treatment programmes Ability to form good working relationships with a wide variety of people Ability to motivate patients/clients who may be disappointed or frustrated Counselling skills, including active listening and a non-judgemental approach Competent use of computer and main software packages [Source: National Careers Service] Source: RCOT [YouTube] Useful articles 10 Reasons Why You Will Succeed as an Occupational Therapist: OT Career Path Career Advice Articles: American Occupational Therapy Association Source: icould Career Stories [YouTube] 13 Essential Characteristics of Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants Exceptional communication skills While working with the patients, occupational therapists need to listen and explain them the situations and tasks. If they are working with a child patient, they must be capable of converting the complex terms into simpler ones so that the child can understand it. Besides this, they also need to communicate with other team members and doctors. So, it is necessary for them to be clear, efficient, and confident while listening and speaking at the time of such discussions. Outstanding personal skills These professionals work with the patients of all age groups undergoing any physical, mental or emotional disability. Also, the basic nature of the patients varies a lot. Some may be very calm while others may be rude, frustrated or impatient. Thus, they must know the way to deal with all of them and help them get the desired results faster. Problem solving abilities Problem solving skills play a vital role in the jobs related to occupational therapy. Different clients may have different problems. For the success of the cases, you must make a strategy on how to solve all these distinctive issues effectively, without any major failure. Physical strength Physical strength is quite a major requisite for the occupational therapists and related job titles. They have to serve the clients throughout the day, travel from one area to another and stand by the side of the patients irrespective of the time and duration. Thus, if you want to be an OT, you must have a great physical strength to manage such a busy and hectic schedule. Possess a helpful nature An occupational therapist should be very helpful as this is all that they have to show in their profile. It is one of the most important qualities they must possess otherwise they can’t give their best to the patients. All day long, they should be ready to assist the clients for every type of help they want. From helping them in moving around to guiding them through some money related problems, an occupational therapist has to be the guardian angel to their client. Organisation skills For being a proficient occupational therapist, one must be a good organiser. Along with their own schedule, they also need to manage the client’s timetable. Also, they have to properly maintain all the documented records, appointments, meetings with other team members and professionals, etc. Only an organised occupational therapist can provide a well-planned treatment and high-quality care to the patients, so its a must that s/he must have management skills. Boast patience It is easier to write “Keep Patience” to a patient’s ward, but it is not so easy to implement the same. Patience is believed to be the most important attribute that one must have to be in this profession. Sometimes, occupational therapists might have to face rude, impatient, frustrated, depressed or stubborn patients. So, they must keep their patience to tread through these everyday situations. Some clients may achieve success in their condition in a few months or weeks while some may take years. So, you just need to keep hold of the case to be an efficient occupational therapist. Compassion and empathy One should opt occupational therapy as a career only if s/he is empathetic and compassionate. Most of the clients of occupational therapy are not only physically disabled but also, mentally and emotionally sensitive. In that phase of life, they need a genuinely warm-hearted and sympathetic occupational therapist who understands them and treats them accordingly. Acquire creativity No one can learn to be creative as it is an inherent characteristic of human beings. Being an occupational therapist, many times you have to modify the tasks and schedule of the patients. For example, you can take a desolate kid to have fun at an amusement park, instead of taking him to a general rehabilitation centre. Your creative methods can help the clients come out of the dilemma and it may result into their active participation in the healthcare programs organised by you. Good writing skills Akin to communication skills, writing qualities are also quite important to became a highly efficient occupational therapist. It is because you need to keep the detailed files and records of all the clients in order to assist them, their family, and your team. You should state the exact condition of the patients on the papers so that it is easier for you and the medical staff to understand what you are doing and exactly how you are doing it. Keeping the details documented will not only help you and the healthcare staff but also the caretakers when you are not around. 'Cheerleading' skills Being an occupational therapist, your words must have the power to motivate your patients and ignite the passion in them to make their life normal once again. Motivation is very important for such depressed, frustrated and troubled people. An enthusiastic OT with great cheerleading skills can make the patients do the things that seem impossible. A good observer Besides being a good listener, a successful occupational therapist must also be a good observer and analytical. S/he should have the ability to analyse the situation and needs of the patients along with handling their complaints. An OT must observe and evaluate the things and procedures that are suitable for their clients and must act accordingly. For example, if a patient moves abnormally, a good OT would recognise the reason for it and would plan the course of the patient accordingly. Flexibility You never know what kind of client you are going to deal with, as disorders can happen to anyone and they may need your assistance. Thus, being an occupational therapist, you should be flexible enough to work with a wide variety of people. You must have the ability to establish a good inter-relationship bond with them, irrespective of their religion, race or nationality. [Source: Top Occupational Therapy Schools] Working environment, hours and salary? You will usually work standard office hours, Monday to Friday. Some services, such as within community physical health and inpatient mental health, work on a shift basis. This can include working early, late or weekend shifts. You could work with clients at a variety of settings, including: hospitals health centres residential or nursing homes GP surgeries schools prisons in the community at a client's home or workplace You will need mental and physical stamina, as this is a very practical job. [Source: National Careers Service] Salary? The average salary of an Occupational Therapist varies significantly internationally. Salary rates can also vary between private and and public health services. If you are seeking to become an Occupational Therapist to make a fortune, you are looking at the wrong career. Occupational Therapists generally earn equivalent salaries to other health professionals, such as Nurses and Social Workers. An Occupational Therapist's salary will generally increase with years of service and level of experience. Source: Health Careers (October 2019) What are the entry requirements to the profession? Depending on your country and proposed university of study, entry level to occupational therapy can be at apprenticeship, diploma, bachelor, masters or doctoral level. To be accepted into an occupational therapy educational program you will need to meet its specific admission requirements and prerequisites. Once graduated you will likely need to be registered with a health registration board and will be subject to background checks and annual registration requirements, such as continuing professional development (CPD). As an example, in the UK, you will need: an apprenticeship, degree or postgraduate qualification in occupational therapy, approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) professional registration with the HCPC to pass enhanced background checks, as you may be working with children and vulnerable adults To do a postgraduate course in occupational therapy, you will usually need a degree in a related subject and some relevant paid or voluntary work experience. [Source: National Careers Service] How do I go about finding and applying to a university? You can search for approved entry level occupational therapy educational programs worldwide, on the World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT)'s website. Some countries may allow programs that are not WFOT approved, but this may this may restrict you working in certain countries or access to further study (Source: WFOT). The tertiary admissions process is likely to be slightly different between countries, so we recommend that you make contact with the university directly to check their admissions process. It is often recommended that you visit at least one occupational therapy service for job shadowing, prior to university interviews. Universities need to know you have some insight into what the career involves! Can I work as an Occupational Therapist in another country? Yes! If you are a qualified Occupational Therapist you can work in different countries. Every country has slightly different requirements, regarding a working visa, professional indemnity insurance, occupational therapy registration, association membership, etc. Some countries, such as the United States of America, also require you to pass a certification exam. If you are wanting more information about working overseas, read this useful publication: Occupational Therapy International Practice Guide 2020 (WFOT). More sources of information: Contribute content: Search the Hub Therapy Forum Share knowledge here

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OT Access Occupational Therapists Connect with occupational therapists, worldwide. Are you an occupational therapist wanting to be visible to the wider community? We want the public to easily reach you, to benefit from your specialist support. ​ This is an expanding directory. Suggestions from our community are not definitive. Get in touch Enable Therapy Services Access Promoting the use of rehabilitation and early intervention. Our services are delivered by our UK-wide network of over 120 highly qualified Occupational Therapists, working together with our dedicated office based clinical coordinators - providing rehabilitation and vocational case management. All ETS Occupational Therapists have the knowledge and experience to provide a wide range of rehabilitation reports, assessments and rehabilitation case management. Our wide range of rehabilitation services provide our referrers with one point of contact to ensure continuity of the rehabilitation process; from early intervention until clients reach their optimal recovery, in activities of daily living, social, leisure and return to work. Our comprehensive vocational rehabilitation services are dovetailed with each client’s rehabilitation programme, so that they are supported with advice and guidance throughout their return to work. [LEEDS-BASED; SERVICES AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE] From the Harp Access From the Harp delivers therapeutic activity using the harp as the occupational based intervention, and playing as occupation. Alice is an Occupational Therapist, harp therapist and sound therapist and does harp therapy sessions for groups and individuals in care homes and for health groups. Harp therapy can be beneficial for all client groups and all ages. The harps are very adaptable and can be played on the floor, on tables, in wheelchairs and in bed. Clients can engage with the harps in any way that is meaningful to them. Some like to play them, others will sing, tap, sway, observe, reminisce about their musical experiences or place their hand on the harps to feel the vibrations. Research has shown that live interactive harp music can reduce pain and anxiety and helps to stabilise heart and breathing rates. Making music on the harps has both physical and cognitive benefits and is great for group cohesion and increasing self esteem. [PORTSMOUTH, HAMPSHIRE-BASED; SERVICES PROVIDED ON SOUTH COAST] OTCoach Access OTCoach: Inspiring and supporting OTs to develop creative and courageous OT practice. OTCoach has been working with individual OTs, OT services and educators since 2005, during which time we have seen the amazing power of a 'coach approach'. Interest in coaching in occupational therapy continues to grow, as both professions aim to help people live their lives with balance and purpose. We 'coach' OTs themselves and also help OTs develop a coaching approach to their work. [SW ENGLAND-BASED; COACHING REMOTELY WORLDWIDE] Seirrah Occupational Therapy Access Based in our clinic in Cardiff, Seirrah OT is a private provider of occupational therapy services for individuals aged 0 to 25 years of age with developmental challenges in their movement, play, learning, and behaviour. As part of our wider services we also work across the UK in homes, schools, and community settings to provide assessment, advice, treatment, and training. Each individual we work with receives a tailored programme according to his or her needs with our treatment programmes being fun and engaging. Our team enable each individual person overcome difficulties they are experiencing by increasing their motivation and adopting a 'there’s no limits' approach. [SOUTH WALES-BASED; UK-WIDE] GLK Occupational Therapy Access With a BSc (Hons) in Occupational Therapy (2014) and a diagnosis of Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (2015), I have the knowledge and understanding of what it is like to live with chronic pain, fatigue, depression and anxiety. I believe in a holistic approach to health. I offer independent living advice and general health and wellbeing coaching. We can work together to achieve realistic, achievable goals to increase quality of life and occupational performance in all areas of daily living. I also offer pain management advice and interventions including hire and treatment of the Alpha-Stim - a micro-current and cranial electrotherapy stimulation hand-held device. I'm also a DoTerra wellness advocate, offering advice on essential oils for health and wellbeing and how to incorporate them into a toxic free lifestyle. Mrs Gemma Kempsell GLK Occupational Therapy Independent Occupational Therapist (HCPC registered) [SERVICES AVAILABLE IN BEDFORD, UK] Heal-OT Access Welcome, I’m Sarah Doyle, a qualified Specialist Occupational Therapist (OT). I have an Occupational Therapy BSC Hons degree from Coventry University, (2010). Experienced in; Specialist Surgery, General Medicine, Renal, Respiratory, Elderly Medicine, Trauma & Orthopaedics and Palliative Care. This has enabled me to develop my career, knowledge and clinical skills. Having specialised within Vascular and Thoracic for the last four years. I have gained invaluable experience within Wheelchair Services. 2018 qualified Post Graduate training in Hippotherapy (using the equine for therapy) and Equine-assisted learning (EAL). This was provided by the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Therapeutic Riding and Hippotherapy. Have you considered Hippotherapy? Hippotherapy is a therapy that uses the horse's movements sitting on the horse at the pace of walk, by using three-dimensional movements, the horse can stimulate pelvic, gross and fine motor skills. Improves head, trunk control, strength, coordination, and balance. It motivates a child/adults physical, sensory, cognitive and emotional systems. Which then enables improvement in occupational performance. We can learn so much, by interacting with the horse. In EAL the therapist uses the horse as an educational tool, encompassing a range of non-riding-based activities, all which improve the physical and psychological performance of individuals. Which can then be transferrable to daily living activities. Registered with the Royal College of Occupational Therapy (RCOT) & Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). An associate member of Chartered Physiotherapists in Therapeutic Riding and Hippotherapy (CPTRH). Enhanced DBS check completed. [NORTH WARWICKSHIRE-BASED; SERVICES PROVIDED WITHIN WEST MIDLANDS] Healthy & Independent Access We are specialists in minor and major adaptations, manual handling people and mindfulness in social care. Teaching the correct handling techniques are essential, in order to minimise any risk of accident and to increase safety and dignity. We offer clinical support and workshops online and in situ. [SERVICES AVAILABLE IN SPAIN AND THE UK] Millennial OT Access Aim: To make positive mental health behaviour appealing. Occupational Therapist Grant Mitchell uses this website to provide resources and content to promote positive mental health, such as Youtube videos and handouts. Grant is an occupational therapist working with young adults in inpatient mental health. Content is related to healthy living and positive mental health, through topics such as mindfulness, coping skills and the areas of occupation. [FLORIDA-BASED] My Therapy Services Access Rebuilding lives through Occupational Therapy. Empowering individuals to rebuild their lives by improving function, maintaining skills and reducing risks. We are dual trained in both physical health and mental health. We look at the individual holistically, not just in a ‘work’ capacity as some people assume due to the word “occupation’. This means putting the person right at the centre and acknowledging that they have many facets in life that will have an impact on one another. The service is run by Manisha who has 17 years of clinical experience as an Occupational Therapist within the NHS. This has involved working within a variety of environments including hospitals, schools, care homes and people’s own homes. Interested in a free consultation? Get in touch and we will help assess your situation and discuss what we can do for you. [UK: NOTTINGHAM. Able to travel within East/West Midlands] NHS 24 Access The national provider of digital and telephone based health and care services for Scotland. We provide people with access to information, care and advice through multiple channels including telephone, web and online. We work in collaboration with partners, the public and our people to co-design services using technology and a digital first approach to sustainable service development and delivery. [SCOTLAND] OT360 Professional Supervision Access Royal College of Occupational Therapists, the Health and Care Professions Council and the Care Quality Commission and all agree: expert supervision is essential for all registered care providers. So if you chose to have supervision how will we work together? That is largely up to you. I have years of experience of supervising OTs, building great working relationships and working hard to tackle your issues, dilemmas or problems. I understand the need to be flexible, so we will work together to find a pattern of meetings that works for you. And, of course, after every session you will receive a summary and action plan, as well as evidence of each HCPC standard, so you are always ready for the HCPC audit. How often we meet is up to you. Most people find that one or two hours a month works well. We can meet monthly, bimonthly or whatever works. Simply email me and suggest dates and times, and we can make arrangements. And of course we can talk in person or on the phone. Have a look at my website, read about who I already work with, and what they say about my work. Margaret Spencer MA Consultant Occupational Therapist and Senior Lecturer [UK-BASED] Occupational Therapy Glasgow Access Independent Occupational Therapist offering Functional Assessments with a client’s home environment to identify areas of functional difficulty in day to day life, helping individuals live in their own home independently and safely for as long as possible. Occupational Therapy assessments can also be undertaken on behalf of charities, benevolent funds and housing associations to assess an individual’s functional need in relation to either specific equipment such as stairlifts or riser-recliner chairs, or larger home adaptations/rehousing. Similarly, assessments can be carried out to support applications or appeals by individuals. Rehab Jigsaw Access Lynne Drumm Occupational Therapist / Case Manager Director Rehab Jigsaw Tel: 03333 440783 DD: 01325 721582 E-mail: lynne.drumm@rehabjigsaw.co.uk Solutions for Living - Entwistle Power Occupational Therapy Access Solutions for Living works proactively and compassionately with disabled and injured people to help them improve their functional independence in important life roles. At home, work, in the community or during leisure pursuits, our Mission is to provide people with disabilities solutions for living. In this way, they can have hope for a better future, are empowered towards independence, and succeed in pursuing functional goals. Our Vision is that occupational therapy becomes recognised for all that it is and all that it can offer as a comprehensive and cost-effective health care solution. Further, our firm, driven by caring, passion and integrity, will lead in the delivery of these services across Ontario. [ONTARIO-BASED] The OT Practice Access The OT Practice has the largest team of independent occupational therapists in the UK, specialising in providing high quality services nationwide to private, statutory and business clients. Our practice is based on our reputation for building trusted relationships with our clients, and we are always looking for talented individuals to join our team. Whether you are thinking about taking the first steps into private practice or are an experienced private practitioner, working with us could be just the answer. If you aren’t sure where to start, we can guide you through the process and provide tools to help manage your workload. Our office-based client management team help find, allocate and administer cases, leaving you time to focus on providing clients with the highest level of care. [HAMPSHIRE-BASED; SERVICES NATIONWIDE] The Rehab Team Ltd Access Nicola Lawson is an experienced occupational therapist who specialises in the assessment and rehabilitation of clients with trauma and orthopaedic conditions, ranging from elective orthopaedic surgery to complex trauma injuries including limb amputations, hand injuries and severe burns. Nicola has worked in a varied of different clinical settings and establishments, including the NHS, charities and private practice. She is based in the East Midlands and currently accepts private referrals, visiting clients in their own homes or place of work. Nicola also provides virtual support groups and training sessions to clients and other professionals. Nicola is a member of the British Associate of Occupational Therapists (BAOT) and British Association of Hand Therapists (BAHT). She is registered with the Health Care Professionals Council (HCPC) and is committed to keeping abreast of clinical issues and maintaining her professional development. Nicola has undergone formal training in Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) pertaining to Expert Witnesses and she accepts medico-legal instructions from solicitors through Somek & Associates Ltd. Nicola Lawson Occupational Therapist Clinical Director [EAST MIDLANDS-BASED - STAFFORDSHIRE/DERBYSHIRE AREA] Waves Occupational Therapy Access As an Occupational Therapist, I offer comprehensive assessments and tailored interventions for both children and adults. Specialising in sensory assessments, I address a wide range of challenges including Dyspraxia, DCD, handwriting difficulties, and sensory integration difficulties. My services extend to supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down's Syndrome, mild hemiplegia, and visual perception issues. For children, I focus on enhancing gross motor skills, fine motor skills, dexterity, handwriting, and visual perception. Additionally, I provide strategies to improve self-care tasks, balance, coordination, and emotional regulation. Adults benefit from functional assessments and rehabilitation, with a focus on addressing handwriting difficulties, sensory needs, and postural requirements. I also offer support for individuals experiencing anxiety, mental health difficulties, and palliative care needs, ensuring a holistic approach to their well-being. Through evidence-based interventions and personalised care plans, I aim to optimise individuals' independence and participation in daily activities, ultimately enhancing their quality of life across various life stages and conditions. - Dawn Berryman, Occupational Therapist [SERVICES PROVIDED IN TRURO, CORNWALL, UK]

< Specialisms Resources + Services Portal Vocational Rehabilitation + Useful resources and services, for your care and career. This is an expanding directory and community suggestions are not definitive. K now of a resource or service that should be featured? Suggest an entry AJOT: The Role of Occupational Therapy in the Vocational Rehabilitation Process This paper identifies the roles and responsibilities of occupational therapy to individuals involved in the vocational rehabilitation process. Visit > BSRM: Vocational Rehabilitation: The Way Forward This document has been produced in the hope that it will contribute to the debate on work (within government, the health professions and other interested bodies) and lead to improvement in services for those for whom accident, illness or disability has led to temporary or permanent loss of work. Better practice within the National Health Service (NHS) and liaison with other agencies can prevent unnecessary sickness absence and job loss in view of the number of bodies involved in vocational rehabilitation. This report is wide-ranging in the hope that it may act as a resource for those entering the field without detailed knowledge of all the agencies involved. Visit > British Association for Supported Employment The British Association for Supported Employment is the national trade association for the supported employment sector. Our purpose is to support, promote and develop the principles and provision of supported employment. BASE aims to: Assist people with disabilities by encouraging the provision of support into employment Endorse and promote quality standards in the delivery of supported employment Nurture and encourage the setting up of new supported employment services Promote the training of supported employment personnel throughout the UK Provide regular, detailed information including an advisory and development service to association members Liaise and negotiate with national and international government and non-government organisations, to promote the aims of the Association Visit > Healthy Working Lives Find out about the basics you must have in place to manage health and safety in your organisation. Why supporting the mental health of your employees is important and ways to do this. Visit > Personnel Today: Return to work through vocational rehabilitation A vocational rehabilitation model using occupational therapists challenges traditional OH approaches Visit > RCOT: RCOT awarded funding to run occupational therapy-led vocational clinics in GP surgeries The Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) is delighted to announce that it has been successful in its bid for support from the Challenge Fund, to run occupational therapy led vocational clinics based in GP surgeries. Visit > RCOT: Vocational Rehabilitation Fact Sheet Occupational therapists have key skills that can help people with developmental, physical or mental health conditions to overcome barriers in order to engage in meaningful occupation and commence, resume or retain employment. They are trained to assess the complex interplay between the person’s skills and limitations, the social and physical environment and the demands of the task, in order to offer individualised intervention plans that can enable people to reach their goals. Visit > The OT Practice : A professional’s guide to Vocational Rehabilitation This guide has been produced to assist case managers in understanding the place of vocational rehabilitation in occupational therapy. ​ Vocational rehabilitation has been thoroughly explored in professional and academic literature and some suggestions for further reading are provided at the end of this guide. The present writer has been able to draw not only from that literature, but also from years of practical, clinical experience in the field, which itself sits at the very heart of occupational therapy. Visit > UK Rehabilitation Council The UK Rehabilitation Council is a community of rehabilitation associations, rehabilitation providers, clients and other stakeholder groups. Our common goal is to ensure access to high quality medical and vocational rehabilitation services in the UK. ​ Acting as an umbrella organisation for this broad community, the Council has been established to provide a united voice on issues of importance to us. The Council seeks to coordinate the efforts of its members, in order that our combined efforts have the greatest possible impact. Visit > Vocational Rehabilitation Association The VRA is a multi-disciplinary UK-wide organisation supporting and promoting all those working in vocational rehabilitation whether in the public, private, voluntary or third sector. Visit > Vocational Rehabilitation Services and Employment Outcomes for People with Disabilities: A United States Study By Alo Dutta, Robert Gervey, Fong Chan, Chih-Chin Chou, Nicole Ditchman. This study examined the effect of vocational rehabilitation services on employment outcomes of people with sensory/communicative, physical, and mental impairments in the United States. Visit > Vocational Rehabilitation: NHS Network This network was developed as a result of a two year research project "Mapping Vocational Rehabilitation Services for People with Long Term Neurological Conditions", led by Dr Diane Playford, Institute of Neurology, University College London and Dr Kate Radford, University of Central Lancashire. The study was set up to find out more about specialist vocational rehabilitation services currently available in England. It also provides guidance to commissioners and providers about the barriers and facilitators to establishing successful vocational rehabilitation services. Visit > Vocational rehabilitation: scientific evidence review The aim of this review was to provide an evidence base for policy development on vocational rehabilitation, which is defined as, ‘whatever helps someone with a health problem to stay at, return to and remain at work’. It focused on: adults of working age the common health problems that account for two-thirds of long-term sickness work outcomes The review found a strong scientific evidence base for many aspects of vocational rehabilitation - and a good business case for it. Visit > Work Matters Booklet Work matters: vocational navigation for occupational therapy staff is the result of a collaboration between the Royal College of Occupational Therapists and the National Social Inclusion Programme . It is aimed at occupational therapists and other allied health professionals and provides good practice guidance to support their work with people on their journeys to employment. It outlines some of the barriers and how occupational therapists can work with people to identify and tackle these. It also introduces some ideas on engaging with people around work issues and signposts readers to useful sources of information and potential partner organisations. Visit >

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Membership Terms of Use Privacy and Cookies Our Policies Platform updated: 2nd May 2024 Communication Hub Store PromOTe Partnerships Copyright Important notice from The Occupational Therapy Hub ​ Information and recommendations provided on The Occupational Therapy Hub's website (the 'platform ') and The OT Hub App (the 'app ', available on Android and iOS devices) have been shared by our global community. Whilst we review all pages, we cannot guarantee quality or accuracy of all information. Therefore, content should not constitute medical advice. We cannot take responsibility for consequences arising from the actions of professionals or the public using the Hub's platform or app. Hub Membership Terms of Use Hub Membership Terms (Our Policies) The Occupational Therapy Hub is a global community, shaped by its Membership. To access the Hub, anyone can join as a Free Hub Member . Membership Plus+ is an optional upgrade. 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Please ensure your payment details remain up-to-date, for continued auto-renewal and access to your Membership Plus+ services. ​ At any point, The Occupational Therapy Hub may choose to transition Free Membership resources to Membership Plus+ resources (or vice versa). In its sole discretion, Management may also add, remove or change the services and resources offered, or the fees charged, at any time. Management will notify Hub Members of such changes , prior to any new or altered fees taking effect . ​ ​ Changes to Terms ​ The Occupational Therapy Hub reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to modify or replace any part of the Terms. Whilst we notify Members of key changes related to platform and app Policies/Terms, it is your responsibility to check the Terms periodically for changes. Your continued use of the platform and/or app, following the posting of any changes to the Terms, constitutes acceptance of those changes. The Occupational Therapy Hub may, in future, offer new services and/or features through the platform and/or app (including the release of new tools and resources). Such new features and/or services shall be subject to the Terms. ​ ​ Account termination ​ In the event that a Member breaches The Occupational Therapy Hub's Terms of Use, Hub Management may terminate access to all or any part of the platform and/or app at any time, with or without notice, effective immediately. Privacy, Cookies, Communication (Our Policies) Privacy, Cookies, Communication The Occupational Therapy Hub takes the privacy of its Members and visitors' information very seriously. We adhere to the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) (2016/679) and the UK Data Protection Act (2018). Hub Management continually reviews its policies. ​ KEY POINTS ​ Personal information We only collect, process and securely store personally identifiable information that you actively submit Such information is used solely for us to provide you with our services, or respond to a communication Once signed up as a Member, you can edit your 'My Profile' page; if you opt in, this can be publicly visible As part of Membership, we send Member Newsletters, to the email address provided No personally identifiable information is passed on to external organisations You have the right to access and edit your information on the Hub, at any time; on email request and subject to proof of identity, you may access personal information that we hold, used or communicated and ask that any necessary corrections be made ​ Demographic data Cookies allow Hub Management to understand anonymous visitor demographics and trends. In turn, this shapes and improves the service we provide you with. Cookies also allow any adverts shown to be more relevant A Facebook pixel within The Occupational Therapy Hub's platform is used to gauge the efficacy of any social media adverts we run ​ Protecting your information Information processed within The Occupational Therapy Hub is encrypted via secure HTTPS networks Data is backed up securely in a cloud-based drive managed by our platform host By using the platform or app and/or joining as a Hub Member, you consent to our Policies (signposted on the Sign up screen). HUB MEMBERSHIPS ( Fre e and Plus+ ) ​ Signing up as a Hub Member ​ ​ When you register as a Hub Member, you will be asked to provide a name, email address and a private password, which will become part of your Account information ​ The Hub securely stores Membership details provided (further details below) Any information requested will be used to activate your account, provide the platform/app's services to you and communicate with you about the status of your A ccount Part of Membership, you receive periodic Member Newsletters * by email; these include CPD recommendations and service changes Settings and notifications can be adjusted at any time; click 'Settings' in the Member Bar , which sits at the top of every page The 'Sign up' screen includes a link to this Policies page, to review all policies prior to joining as a Member ​ Your Profile Page Each Hub Member is given their own My Profile page; this can be accessed through the Member Ba r, or via the Member Directory * A public 'My Profile' page is optional; click 'Make Profile Public' via the '⋮' icon on your profile card ( in Member Directory) It includes the name used to sign up, alongside an optional profile picture and profile text - for the Member to promote their work in, or linked to, the occupational therapy profession Other than storing it for you, we do not do anything with information here; it is there for networking purposes only However, if information is posted that is deemed by Hub Management to be inappropriate or offensive, the Member will be notified and the information will be removed * Member Directory requires logging in to access. Membership sign up here . ​ ​ ​ ​ Personal information: what is collected, processed and stored? The only personally identifiable information we collect, process and/or store is that which you actively submit. This may be your name, email address or other contact details that you provide us with. We do not transfer this information to other organisations, unless: ​ You provide us with explicit written authorisation, by email or post It is necessary to comply with the law, or to protect the rights, property or safety of our Management, Team or Members ​ We collect information when you: ​ Sign up as a Hub Member (see below) ​Register for OT Webinars * or an OT Event Register and/or participate in OT CPD Courses * Submit research for inclusion in the Research Portal * Apply for a platform/app competition or promotion Submit a podcast episode or series to the Podcast Portal * Engage in communication, via an email or our Connect with the Hub form Engage in Hub CPD , the collaborative professional development programme Purchase a product , such as a PromOTe Partnership or item within the Hub Store Submit an entry to Access Occupational Therapists or the Resources + Services Portal Upload a file to The Occupational Therapy Hub's cloud storage, such as when contributing to Therapy Videos * Upload content to Therapy Articles * ; this is a moderated p ortal , with Member-generated content Upload a post to the Therapy Forum * , Student Spaces * or The OT Journal Club * - Member-generated content ( moderated ) ​ * Portals marked with asterisks require Member log in to use in full. 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Other than a Member’s 'My Profile' page - optionally viewable by the public - personal information can only be accessed by Hub Management; all management staff keep this strictly confidential ​ ​ Rights to my information You have the right to access and edit your information, at any time, through the web interface provided as part of the platform and app. On written request (by email) and subject to proof of identity, you may access the personal information that we hold, used or communicated and ask that any necessary corrections be made, where applicable, as authorised or required by law. However, to make sure that the personal information we maintain about you is accurate and up-to-date, please inform us of any change in your personal information by email. ​ ​ How can I edit or turn on/off communications? 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These external links (websites, videos, PDF documents, podcast platforms) have separat e and independent privacy policies. We therefore have no responsibility or liability for the content and activities of these links. Nonetheless, we seek to protect the integrity of our platform and app and welcome any feedback about these linked sites, including if a specific link does not work. * Portals marked with asterisks require Member log in to use in full. Membership sign up here . ​ Changes to our policies If our policies change, amendments will be posted here. Policy changes apply only to information collected after the date of the change. ​ Your consent By using The Occupational Therapy Hub platform/app and/or joining as a Hub Member, you consent to our Policies. Links to this Policies page are located within sign up sections. Questions or feedback? ​ If you have any questions or comments - about our policies or your personal information, to make an access or correction request, to exercise any applicable rights, or to make a complaint - our Data Protection Officer can be reached by email: hubteam@theOThub.com . Alternative methods of communication are listed on the Contact us page. ​ ​ ​ Registration with the UK Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO ) ​ ​ Nature of work Occupational therapy information service and networking website and application. ​ Description of processing The following is a broad description of the way The Occupational Therapy Hub processes personal information. To understand how your own personal information is processed you may need to refer to any personal communications you have received, check any privacy notices the organisation has provided or contact the organisation to ask about your personal circumstances. 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Who the information is processed about To operate our service to you, we need to process information about: ​ Hub Members (Free and Plus+) Members who participate in courses Customers who purchase a product Visitors who inquire about or submit files to the platform or app External podcasts External resources and services External research External occupational therapy practices External occupational therapists Who the information may be shared with In very rare circumstances, in the interest of the public, the company or its Members' safety or security, other governing organisations may need to be contacted. Where this is necessary we are required to comply with all aspects of the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) ( 2016/679 ) and the UK's Data Protection Act (2018). 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These include, without limitation, any local laws or regulations in your country, regarding online conduct and acceptable content. These include all applicable laws regarding the transmission of technical data exported from the United Kingdom or the country in which you reside Your use of the platform and/or app will not infringe or misappropriate the intellectual property rights of any third party ​ ​ ​ Miscellaneous If there is any dispute between you and The Occupational Therapy Hub about or involving the Terms or the service, you hereby agree that the dispute will be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the United Kingdom, without regard to its conflict of law provisions. Copyright (Our Policies) Copyright The OT Hub Ltd is the legal copyright holder of the Portals, functions, designs, logos and names ('The Occupational Therapy Hub' and 'The OT Hub'), belonging to The Occupational Therapy Hub platform and app. Our content may not be reprinted, reproduced or modified without written consent. A link to The Occupational Therapy Hub's website (www.theOThub.com ) must appear in all authorised copies of any content owned by The OT Hub Ltd. Content uploaded by Hub Members, via their accounts, is copyright of its respective owners. ​ OT CPD Courses * Courses and contents are owned by their respective hosts. E xternal resources cited are owned by their respective external organisations. ​ Therapy Forum * , Student Spaces * and The OT Journal Club * Documents, uplo ads and external links are owned by their creators/authors, not by The OT Hub Ltd. Therapy Videos * Video footage showcased within the 'Community Videos' channel is owned by external organisations, not by The OT Hub Ltd. ​ Podcast Portal * Logos, audio content and embedded links to series and platforms are owned by their creators/authors, not by The OT Hub Ltd. ​ Research Portal * Content uploaded is owned and copyrighted by the research author(s), not The OT Hub Ltd. ​ Hub Store Assessments, documents, presentations and clinical and reflective tools are owned by The OT Hub Ltd, or their creators/authors . ​ Access Occupational Therapists / Resources + Services Portal Logos, information and links to external resources and services listed here are owned by external organisations, not by The OT Hub Ltd. * Portals marked with asterisks require logging in to use in full. Membership sign up here . ​ The Occupational Therapy Hub is owned and managed by The OT Hub Ltd, registered in England and Wales. Company number: 11084421.

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< Specialisms Resources + Services Portal Fatigue Management + Useful resources and services, for your care and career. This is an expanding directory and community suggestions are not definitive. K now of a resource or service that should be featured? Suggest an entry South Coast Fatigue Occupational therapist-led specialist fatigue management service for NHS and private individuals based in the UK. Aiming to promote fatigue management strategies into general rehabilitation to help maximise outcomes. ​ [UK; SOUTH COAST-BASED] Visit >

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Membership Poll 2024 Shaped by Members, The Occupational Therapy Hub is your global community of practice. So, to focus efforts in developing resources and content most useful to you , please submit opinions and feedback. We will upgrade a random participant's account for free, regardless of answers. The poll will close on Sunday 30th June 2024. Thank you in advance for your time! The Occupational Therapy Hub Team Contact the Hub The Occupational Therapy Hub Online platform and mobile app (iOS/Android) This poll takes a few minutes to complete. Questions with an asterisk (*) require a response. As a reference, to help you select answers, please click here to open a duplicate Hub webpage. Which of the following best describes you? Please choose an option How did you hear about/first come across the Hub? Please choose an option How long have you been using the Hub for? Never/Just started About a month 2-12 months Over a year Over 5 years How often do you access the Hub (platform/app)? Every day Most days Weekly Monthly Rarely Which subject material(s) are you most interested in? Acute and primary care Community or inpatient rehabilitation Equipment and manual handling Geriatrics / Older people Hand therapy Housing and adaptations Leadership and development Learning disability and neurodiversity Mental health and wellbeing Neurology Paediatrics / Young people Public health Research / Academia Theories / Models of practice Trauma and orthopaedics Vocational rehabilitation Other subject(s) [type into a text box below] Which free resource(s) do you most use? Therapy Articles Therapy Videos Podcast Portal Resources + Services Portal Therapy Forum / Student Spaces / The OT Journal Club What is Occupational Therapy? A Career in Occupational Therapy Access Occupational Therapists Member Directory OT Events OT Books: Buy & Sell Hub Store (free-to-access; individual purchases) Which word(s) do you feel best describe The OT Hub app? Convenient Easy-to-use Useful learning tool Helpful community support Difficult to use Too slow Lacking certain content Other [type into a text box below] N/A - I have not yet used the app [Plus+ Members]: Which Plus+ resource(s) do you most use? OT CPD Courses Research Portal 3.0 OT Updates OT Downloads OT Webinars OT Interventions Case Studies [Non-upgraded Members]: What might draw you to Plus+? A lower monthly/annual price Additional plan or payment options A greater volume of exclusive resources Something else [type into a text box below] [Plus+ Members]: How do you feel about the upgrade cost? Too cheap (could be higher) Good value for money Not good value for money Too expensive Please rate your overall satisfaction with the Hub's resources, support and experience Very dissatisfied A bit dissatisfied Pretty satisfied Satisfied Very satisfied How could we improve your experience? / What would you like to see more (or less) of? Any feedback not covered above? (e.g. navigation, technical aspects, design/visuals) Final thoughts? First name Your email address * Last name (optional) Submit Thank you very much for taking part! We always seek to improve and will review every submission. You can expect changes in the months ahead. The Membership Poll 2024 is now closed for submissions. Thank you for your interest. To share further feedback or suggestions, please contact us . Interested in being a more active part of the global occupational therapy community? Get involved!

< Specialisms Resources + Services Portal Social Inclusion + Useful resources and services, for your care and career. This is an expanding directory and community suggestions are not definitive. K now of a resource or service that should be featured? Suggest an entry Access Sport Access Sport enhances the life prospects of disadvantaged children by providing opportunities to experience and enjoy the power of sport. Our unique experience across a wide range of sports in London, Bristol, Manchester and Oxford have led us, in the twelve years since we were established, to become nationally recognised as an innovative leader in the field of community sport. Our work supports young people aged 5-25, with a particular emphasis on under 18’s who are disabled, disadvantaged or excluded from society. We do this by building thriving community sports clubs, led by inspirational volunteers, in the most disadvantaged urban areas. These clubs then provide life-changing opportunities for local, vulnerable young people, whilst creating a lasting, locally-owned community resource. We have a multi-sport approach, which recognises the importance of different sports in different settings for different participants, enabling maximum inclusivity and impact - from BMX to boxing; from running to rugby; from sitting volleyball to sailing. To find out more information please visit our website or find us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. [UK CHARITY] Visit > AccessAble AccessAble is here to take the chance out of going out. To give you the information and detail you need to work out if a place is going to be accessible for you. We've surveyed 10,000s of venues across the UK and Ireland, including shops, pubs, restaurants, cinemas, theatres, railway stations, hotels, universities, hospitals and more. AccessAble is Your Accessibility Guide. Download our free App to use AccessAble on the go. ​​ [UK-WIDE SERVICE] Visit > Adult safeguarding: e-learning course (SCIE) This resource, by SCIE, explores the following questions: ​ What is adult safeguarding and how does it affect each and every one of us? How do I recognise the types and indicators of abuse? What can I do if I suspect that someone is being harmed? What should I do if I believe someone is being harmed but the person asks me to keep the information confidential and take no action? What can I do to make it much less likely that a person might be harmed? How do I ensure that adult safeguarding is managed correctly in the context of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 ​ This e-Learning course module is free to use, however to access the course you will need a free MySCIE account. ​ [UK-BASED; AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Creative Minds A social enterprise and nationwide community of artists, delivering empowering and therapeutic art sessions to care homes, learning disability services and day centres across the country. Our community of over 30 artist licensees deliver over 350 art sessions, to 1500 people a month, working with older people and people with learning disabilities. Creative Minds is expanding all the time. We currently have passionate artists delivering art sessions from London, East Sussex and Kent, to the West Midlands, Leicestershire and Yorkshire. For a full list of locations and further insight into our work, visit our website and follow us on social media. [UK SOCIAL ENTERPRISE; SERVICE AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE] Visit > Garry Burge - Asperger Syndrome and Autism Advocacy Offering personal experience, through trial and error, to help raise awareness. Garry Burge was born in Brisbane, Australia in August 1972 and was diagnosed as having Asperger Syndrome in July 1998. Being diagnosed has helped him to understand who he is as a person and explained why he was different from other people and the world around him. His diagnosis helped to answer some of the following questions: ​ Why it was difficult for him to make friends His constant obsessions in trains, pocket watches, orchids and history The difficulty in not being able to fit into and adjust to the school environment Why he was bullied and teased within secondary school Experience of having depression and social isolation earlier in his life Not having a lighter side Seeing things and taking comments from other people very literally Unemployment issues and not being able to find employment Visit Garry Burge's website to find out more and learn from his experiences. This includes autism and employment, Asperger Syndrome advocacy, links and support. ​ [AUSTRALIA-BASED; INFORMATION APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > LGBTQ and OT This website is designed to connect OT practitioners, educators, and students to the resources and information that they need to improve OT services for LGBTQ clients in many settings. This website offers cultural awareness resources, information on how LGBTQ identities can impact occupational performance, advice on how to make clinics more LGBTQ friendly and more. ​ [INFORMATION RELEVANT WORLDWIDE] Visit > Maisha Outreach Therapy Organisation (MOTO) We aim to make rehabilitation services in Africa more accessible and enhance the lives of vulnerable and marginalised people through quality care, therapy and advocacy. We facilitate volunteer placements and use occupational therapy as a tool to support and empower. ​ [AFRICA-BASED; SERVICE AVAILABLE CONTINENT-WIDE] Visit > Ocupando los Márgenes Ocupando los Margenes - or Occupying the Margins is a website that promotes critical reflection in and from the margins of occupational therapy; it explores practice and principles outside conventional settings or countries. ​ Occupational therapy is explored in relation to human rights, equality, occupational justice and social transformation. Content includes perspectives from life in Rwanda and interventions with child refugees in Greece. The blog aids to improve reflexive thinking about principle concerns which ought to be approached by occupational therapy. ​ This website is in Spanish, but can be easily translated, through a Google Translate pop-up on your browser. ​ [FOUNDED IN SPAIN; INFORMATION APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Springboard (Sheffield Mind) The Springboard is for people who are feeling low, isolated, anxious or struggling to manage their mental wellbeing. It is aimed at those who are ready to begin, or are on the road to recovery. You can come along and have a chat about your situation and find out what is available to help you to move forward. The Springboard runs in 4 different locations around Sheffield. ​ The Springboard offers: a warm friendly atmosphere with refreshments provided trained volunteers available to offer support and advice information about opportunities and services encouragement and support to try new things the opportunity to try activities within the Springboard and the Time Builders programme the opportunity to make friends encouragement and support to take ownership of your situation ​ [UK: SHEFFIELD SERVICE] Visit > St Wilfrid's Centre A day centre open to all homeless, vulnerable and socially excluded adults aged 18-65 years old. We are open Monday to Friday (10am-4pm), with a skilled staff team that offer basic Welfare services, as well as Personal Development activities to promote wellbeing and independence. Hygiene services - showers, hairdressing, laundry, clothing repair and clothing bank Hot meals and snacks Finding accommodation Somewhere safe to go regularly and meet others Advice, advocacy and signposting - including benefits, housing and personal advice Social activities, games and groups Personal Development Programme - offers a wide variety of personal development activities structured to help facilitate recovery, life-skills & work-based skill ​ [UK: SHEFFIELD CENTRE] Visit >

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Research Portal 3.0 OT Your gateway to read and showcase occup ational therapy research Exclusive to Membership Plus+ Research Themes > Submit / Feedback Editorial Editorial We have made further improvements to the Research Portal. In version 3.0, journal articles and infographics are categorised into a breadth of 'Themes', streamlining your route to relevant papers. The type of research continues to be highlighted . ​ "You can contribute to the Portal, by suggesting topics, papers, research and authors that are relevant to evidence-based practice in occupational therapy. Month by month, we can together build a solid collection of references to improve our practice and critical thinking as occupational therapy practitioners. Our profession has been supporting the world for over a hundred years. In all these years, occupational therapy had different paradigms - built under the umbrella of knowledge, culture, clinical experience, values and ethical behaviours. Despite being an extensive topic, subject to corrections, some authors call those sum characteristics 'professionalism'. Speaking about professionalism seems unnecessary in the Research Portal; common sense dictates that if you are a professional, you are going to act with professionalism. But sometimes we may not understand how intrinsic its importance is for advancing the profession, since professionalism is 'an essential component of a value-based practice, which is a complement to an evidence-based practice' (Lecours, 2021). So, despite the cultural, social and geographical differences, professionalism in occupational therapy crosses the frontiers and gives us a collective and unique professional identity. Morrison (1998) highlights that 'Occupational therapy holds together as it develops a praxis that strengthens its development.' Following his line, the author says: 'the exercise of the profession, in any of its spheres, becomes as diverse as the subjects of care, or the issues to be addressed allow it, as well as the development of its scientific knowledge.' In short, two principle factors that make our profession solid and develop a positive identity are: paradigms and evidence. So, let us keep walking hand-in-hand with value-based practice and evidence-based practice." ​ Erica Juliboni - Occup ational Therapist in São Paulo, Brazil; Research Lead 2021-23 Editorial References > ​ Research Themes Themes Arthritis Chronic Conditions Creative Occupations Development and Ageing Education and Research Environmental Adaptation Human Behaviour Mental Health / Wellbeing Neurodiversity Neurology Occupational Balance Occupational Science Paediatrics Productivity and Work Sensory Considerations Sex and Relationships Sleep Spirituality Staff and Patient Safety Telehealth Workforce Research Submission / Feedback Submit Subm ission Have you produced r esearch, individually or as a team? Share it with a global audience.​ ​ Format options: PDF docum ent, presentation, website link, video summary Full ownership of work maintained by research author Submit research Feedback If you would like the Hub Team to pass o n feedback to research authors, complete the form below. Feedback Thank you. We have received your feedback and will pass it on to the author(s). Send feedback Editorial Themes Submit Feedback

< Specialisms Resources + Services Portal Career Development + Useful resources and services, for your care and career. This is an expanding directory and community suggestions are not definitive. K now of a resource or service that should be featured? Suggest an entry Adult safeguarding: e-learning course (SCIE) This resource, by SCIE, explores the following questions: ​ · What is adult safeguarding and how does it affect each and every one of us? · How do I recognise the types and indicators of abuse? · What can I do if I suspect that someone is being harmed? · What should I do if I believe someone is being harmed but the person asks me to keep the information confidential and take no action? · What can I do to make it much less likely that a person might be harmed? · How do I ensure that adult safeguarding is managed correctly in the context of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 ​ This e-Learning course module is free to use, however to access the course you will need a free MySCIE account. ​ [UK-BASED; AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Boutique Learning Experience Boutique Learning Experience provides continuing education while on retreat! A company founded by an OT created with OTs in mind. We combine professional development with a retreat providing meaningful activities, enjoyment and being present! Experts in niche areas of practice provide in-depth training balanced with the daily mindfulness, adventure and relaxation activities. This is where you do you and return to work invigorated with a plethora of new strategies and networks. You will explore tools to help rejuvenate your body and mind. Yes, you deserve this! The experience is all about quality learning and enjoying the moment! What we offer: Quality, interactive continuing education tailored to the group to facilitate expertise in the specific topic area Proactively addressing burnout through mindfulness practices and revisit one's own life balance Develop a network of experts and talented forward thinking therapists Online seminars are held the year following a retreat to deepen learning, problem solving, creation of research ideas and continued collaboration; the opportunities are endless! A retreat nurtures the whole self. Take time to relax, be pampered and just be Learn about mindfulness. See how it may apply to you and your clients Come live life and learn more with us! ​ [US-BASED; RETREATS WORLDWIDE] Visit > Career Development Framework: Guiding Principles for Occupational Therapy (RCOT) The recently published career Development Framework: Guiding Principles for Occupational Therapy is an over-arching set of guiding principles for occupational therapy. It offers a structured process to guide careers, learning and development within our profession. It contains four interacting Pillars of Practice each with nine Career Levels: · Professional Practice · Facilitation of Learning · Leadership · Evidence, Research and Development It can support you to identify the things you have already learnt and areas for continuing professional development. The framework can be used at different levels; on an individual level, you can map current level of experience and plan future learning and on a service level, you can identify strengths in the team and future needs when recruiting. ​ [UK PROFESSIONAL BODY; INFORMATION APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Helen Sanderson Associates (+ One-page profiles) We support individuals, teams and organisations to put people - and what matters to them - at the heart of the work they do every day. We do this because we believe in a world where everyone is valued and appreciated as an individual - and we know we can make it happen, one step at a time. ​ We work with customers large and small, from lots of different backgrounds. These include charities and companies specialising in health and social care, education and criminal justice. As a social enterprise, we invest our profits into person-centred charities, through our charitable arm, the HSA Foundation . Because of this, our customers aren’t just creating a more person-centred world themselves - they’re also supporting others to do the same. ​ Want to know more about how we can work together? Get in touch for a chat. One Page Profiles A one-page profile captures all the important information about a person on a single sheet of paper, under three simple headings: what people appreciate about me, what’s important to me and how best to support me. We believe that one-page profiles are the foundation of personalisation and can lead to positive change for people, whatever their age or circumstances. They provide us with an at-a-glance way of knowing what really matters to people, that can be taken with them as they move through services and come into contact with people. Getting started with one-page profiles (PDF) > One-page profiles: Getting them right (PDF) > ​ [UK-BASED] Visit > Impact Learning Impact Learning is a training company directed at paediatric healthcare professionals, teachers and parents. We offer workshops and training accredited with the Health and Allied Health Professionals Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and (AHPCSA). We are currently applying for accreditation with the South African Council for Educators (SACE), encouraging all professionals to keep up to date with their CPD and CPTD points. ​ Impact Learning’s vision is to bring all health and educational professions the latest key trends in Paediatric Medical Health Updates, Ethics and Paediatric Development . Presenters who are in the forefront of their fields offer practical take-home advice and ideas for the medical practice, therapy environment, home and classroom. ​ [S.AFRICA: JOHANNESBURG-BASED; INFORMATION RELEVANT WORLDWIDE Visit > Jacqueline Webb As Britain’s No.1 provider of Care and Occupational Therapy Expert Reports, we provide detailed opinion on the long-term needs of the claimant as a result of catastrophic injury, as part of a personal injury or clinical negligence claim. Occupational Therapists are best placed to make these recommendations and we encourage them to explore this exciting professional development opportunity. To find out more visit our website below. You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook . ​ [UK: WILTSHIRE-BASED; SERVICES PROVIDED NATIONWIDE] Visit > Mental Capacity Act: e-Learning course (SCIE) This resource explores the Mental Capacity Act 2005, including best interests decision-making, and how to support people to make their own decisions. ​ The course is for everyone who looks after or cares for someone, for example, doctors, nurses, care assistants, social workers, and family members. ​ [UK GOVERNMENT ACT; UK RESOURCE; INFORMATION RELEVANT WORLDWIDE] Visit > OT Flourish OT Flourish helps OT practitioners and students be the best they can be when working with older adults. We do this through: The Learning Lab Membership: helping you be skilled, creative, current & have the resources you need with hundreds of treatment idea videos, lists and links to patient handouts, tools, assessments, and evaluations, a journal club, exclusive community forum and fun bonuses - just for being a member! OT Flourish Podcast: showcasing relevant interviews, answering questions, current articles and hot topics, but also to getting OT practitioners excited about working with older adults, give actionable ideas that listeners can take and use in their own practice and have some fun along the way! OT Resources: find the CEU discounts, e-books, handouts, forms and products that you have been looking for to ramp up your practice! Blog: free treatment ideas, education and resources to learn, relate and grow as an OT practitioner and student. Connect with OT Flourish via mchamberlain@seniorsflourish.com , or social media. [US-BASED RESOURCE; AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > OT Potential OT Potential exists to help occupational therapy practitioners provide the best care possible. What started as an occupational therapy blog has evolved according to practitioner needs. Today on the site you can find: · A comprehensive guide to finding and landing the right OT job · A store with digital forms, ebooks and handouts · An overview of occupational therapy · ...and more! To receive updates, please sign up for the newsletter, via our homepage. OT Potential on social media Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest ​ [US-BASED RESOURCE; AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > OTA Guide Have questions about an occupational therapist assistant (OTA) career? Our free tools will answer any questions about OTA salaries, licenses and school programs in your location. Visit > OTCoach OTCoach inspiring and supporting OTs to develop creative and courageous OT practice. OTCoach has been working with individual OTs, OT services and educators since 2005, during which time we have seen the amazing power of a “coach approach.” Interest in coaching in occupational therapy continues to grow, as both professions aim to help people live their lives with balance and purpose. We “coach” OTs themselves and also help OTs develop a coaching approach to their work. ​ Twitter: @OTCoachUK Facebook: facebook.com/OTCoach Linked In: linkedin.com/in/jengash Purchase our OTCoaching book [BRISTOL/SW ENGLAND BASED; COACHING AVAILABLE UK-WIDE] Visit > Occupational Therapy Adaptation Conference (OTAC) The UKs only FREE Occupational Therapy Adaptations Conference and Exhibition Event. The conference focuses on bringing suppliers and OTs together in one place - in different venues across the UK - with one aim: to improve the industry as a whole and provide better value to the end user. ​ Who should attend? Occupational Therapists, occupational therapy assistants and support staff, commissioners, people working within housing (surveyors, architects and technicians), occupational therapy students and charities and charitable organisations. ​ The list of exhibitors we have exhibiting with us is endless. For instance:- The Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT), Handicare, Guldmann Hoists, Kingkraft, SensoryKraft, Capia PIP, Careflex, FRANKE, Clos-o-Mat, Impey, Safespaces, Triton showers, Geberit, Mangar, Langham GE, AKW, DLF, Otolift...and many more. ​ You can see the full details and listings on our website. Our event is a FREE Event for Delegates and we include refreshments throughout. Each venue holds around 500 Delegates and tickets are available for all of them on our website or via Eventbrite. ​ [UK-WIDE CONFERENCES] Visit > Ocupando los Márgenes Ocupando los Margenes - or Occupying the Margins is a website that promotes critical reflection in and from the margins of occupational therapy; it explores practice and principles outside conventional settings or countries. ​ Occupational therapy is explored in relation to human rights, equality, occupational justice and social transformation. Content includes perspectives from life in Rwanda and interventions with child refugees in Greece. The blog aids to improve reflexive thinking about principle concerns which ought to be approached by occupational therapy. ​ This website is in Spanish, but can be easily translated, through a Google Translate pop-up on your browser. ​ [SPAIN PLATFORM; INFORMATION APPLICABLE WORLD-WIDE] Visit > SPOTeurope - Student Platform Occupational Therapy Europe A place for the future OT. SPOTeurope aims to encourage and increase OT student connection across Europe. You can connect with other students to exchange experiences, opportunities, knowledge and ideas, all through SPOTeurope! The idea was developed at the European Network of Occupational Therapy in Higher Education (ENOTHE) Congress and since then has made huge progress! SPOT currently provides a blog (with news about the OT world), a forum (in which students can connect and ask questions), country representatives (who can answer OT questions in their country), Twitter, Facebook and more. Join in the discussion! Facebook: www.facebook.com/spoteurope Twitter: www.twitter.com/SPOTeurope ​ [EUROPEAN PLATFORM; ACCESSIBLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Securing a Sustainable Future (Council of Deans of Health) The Council of Deans of Healths Securing a Sustainable Future - Strategic Plan 2018-2021 (PDF). The Council of Deans of Health (CoDoH) represents the UK’s university faculties engaged in education and research for nurses, midwives and allied health professionals (including Occupational Therapists). We are the voice of nursing, midwifery and AHP higher education and research. Operating across the UK at the heart of policy and political debate, we aim to lead policy at national and UK level, promoting the essential contribution of our members to health and social care. ​ Our strategic priorities · Influence policy UK-wide · Secure sustainable funding for our disciplines · Foster leadership and innovation ​ [UK ORGANISATION; INFORMATION APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Stroke Core Competencies - Stroke Training and Awareness Resources (STARS) This e-learning resource provides a learning tool for health and social care staff to enable them to become more knowledgeable and skilful in the challenging area of stroke care. The resource is based on the Stroke Core Competencies which were published by NHS Education for Scotland (NES) in 2005. ​ The website provides a multidisciplinary resource which focuses on a wide range of core knowledge and skills required by all staff when delivering stroke care. The Core Competencies provide an interactive way of learning with quizzes, animations, video clips, and case scenarios. ​ + Stroke Advancing Modules > ​ [UK TRAINING RESOURCE; AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > TED + TEDx Talks Playlist TED and TEDx Talks by former and current members of the occupational therapy community. All in one YouTube playlist. Compiled by Bill Wong (OTR/L), a 2x TEDx talker, who specialises in autism and social media. ​ + SEE ALSO: A growing LGBTQ+ TED/TEDx Talks YouTube Playlist . ​ [INTERNATIONAL RESOURCE] Visit > TRAMm CPD The TRAMm* (Tell , Record , Apply , Monitor and measure) Model and its tools the TRAMm Tracker and TRAMm Trail, collectively known as TRAMmCPD have been developed by Occupational Therapists to provide health and care professionals with a framework to meet the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) Standards for Continuing Professional Development (CPD). CPD is a personal and subjective journey, as well as a professional responsibility and mandatory requirement. In order to be effective you need to Tell others, Record and Apply your learning, Monitor your progress and measure* the impact. The TRAMm Model is a dynamic, interactive model which encourages your engagement in CPD (Hearle and Lawson 2019 ) whilst the TRAMm Tracker and TRAMm Trail have been designed as tools to enable you to record your CPD, keep track of your progress and measure the outcomes of your learning. We have received feedback from health and care professionals who have successfully submitted their CPD Profile for the HCPC Audit using TRAMmCPD as a structure. The new, fully updated edition of our book A Strategic Guide to Continuing Professional Development for Health and Care Professionals: The TRAMm Model (2nd ed) is available to buy in paperback or ebook formats and is free to read for members of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) as an eBook (once logged in: Library Resources – eBooks – eBook Central – search for TRAMm Model). Doctoral research is currently being undertaken to provide underpinning evidence for TRAMmCPD. Updates to the TRAMm Model is ongoing based on the results of our research, the latest TRAMmCPD information, resources and tools are free to download from our website. [*Please note that the lower case ‘m’ is used to denote measure purely to differentiate it from Monitor. It has no significance in terms of importance] [UK RESOURCE; APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > The Fund To Promote Awareness of Occupational Therapy (FPAOT) We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organisation, committed to ongoing resource development to support targeted education, research and professional development opportunities - that will increase the public’s understanding of occupational therapy. The Fund exists to achieve greater understanding, availability and use of occupational therapy and to promote the profession’s contributions to health, wellness, participation, productivity, and quality of life in society. ​ [US ORGANISATION; INFORMATION RELEVANT WORLDWIDE] Visit > The OT Practice The OT Practice has the largest team of independent occupational therapists in the UK, specialising in providing high quality services nationwide to private, statutory and business clients. Our practice is based on our reputation for building trusted relationships with our clients, and we are always looking for talented individuals to join our team. ​ Whether you are thinking about taking the first steps into private practice or are an experienced private practitioner, working with us could be just the answer. If you aren’t sure where to start, we can guide you through the process and provide tools to help manage your workload. Our office-based client management team help find, allocate and administer cases, leaving you time to focus on providing clients with the highest level of care. ​ [UK: HAMPSHIRE-BASED; SERVICES AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE] Visit > The Occupational Therapy Show The Occupational Therapy Show 2018, 21st and 22nd November. Venue: Hall 9, NEC Birmingham, B40 1NT, UK Visitor cost: Free Join the UK's largest, free-to-attend, dedicated event just for OTs! This CPD education and trade show will be taking place at Birmingham’s NEC over a two day period. Don't miss out! Benefit from: · Access over 100 OT focused and interactive lectures, seminars and practical workshops View the conference programme by clicking here · Gain over 80 hours accredited CPD education · Learn from world-renowned speakers and experts · Update and refresh your learning across physical, mental health and learning difficulties, children and families, neurology in practice, housing and innovation, plus many more hot topics, specialist areas and new research relevant to OTs in practice · Research and source new products and services, through a network of over 270 trade exhibitors and suppliers. Providing information and advice for all your questions and need The Occupational Therapy Show is dedicated to informing, inspiring and investing in all Occupational Therapists. This truly is an event not to be missed! ​ [BIRMINGHAM, UK; NATIONWIDE, ANNUAL TRADE SHOW/CONFERENCE] Visit > Violence in the Occupational Therapy Workplace - Learning Module (University of Alberta) The 7 units in this module provide detailed information about violence in health care workplaces. They include a clear definition, a description of the factors that increase the risks of violence and realistic actions and resources that can be used, to prevent and manage wide-ranging forms of workplace violence. + CPD certificate available This free, online learning module was developed by Occupational Therapists, for Occupational Therapists. The work was carried out at the University of Alberta, with funding support from the Government of Alberta, Canada. We would like to thank all of the Occupational Therapists and occupational therapy students who contributed to this project - your input was invaluable. ​ [FOUNDED IN CANADA; AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit >

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Hub Jobs Vacancies and voluntary roles. For occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants and students. Before making contact or applying for a post, please consider your skillset and relevant experiences to-date. Vacancy applications will only be considered if you can clearly demonstrate you meet the criteria outlined. Interview tips OT CPD Courses Lead Voluntary Ad hoc/Flexible hours Worldwide (working remotely) The Hub T eam are looking for a passionate and driven occupational therapist, to lead in managing and growing our latest resource portal, OT CPD Courses . This is accessed by Plus+ Members (full upgrade to Membership Plus+ is provided to the post holder). It consists of short online programs, that provide - and then test - Members’ knowledge on a range of subjects within the profession. You will be enhancing your own CPD portfolio and networking with occupational therapists worldwide . You will feature on our website Team page and have access to the entire platform, our social media channels and email. Projects to include : Developing course content, in collaboration with Members; reaching out to the professional community for development of further courses; liaising with fellow team members to contribute their specialist knowledge; promoting the portal. This is a part-time, ad hoc role. No set hours are required. We ask that you engage regularly with other Hub Team members. All Team positions are currently voluntary. As The Occupational Therapy Hub's commercial division grows, management will reward its Team for their commitment. The Occupational Therapy Hub hubteam@theOThub.com Apply Research Lead Voluntary Ad hoc/Flexible hours Worldwide (working remotely) The Hub Team are looking for a passionate and driven occupational therapist to lead our internationally-utilised Research Portal 3.0 , accessed by Plus+ Members (full access to Plus+ resources provided). You will be enhancing your CPD portfolio and helping to connect OTs, OTAs and students to research, to inform their practice . You will feature on our website Team page and have access to the entire platform, our social media channels and email. Projects to include : Searching for new and recent research; uploading journal articles to the Portal; developing research categories; reaching out to Members, to submit their work; bringing content to the attention of Members via social networks. This is a part-time, ad hoc role. No set hours are required. We ask that you engage regularly with other Hub Team members. All Team positions are currently voluntary. As The Occupational Therapy Hub’s commercial division grows, management will reward its Team for their commitment. The Occupational Therapy Hub hubteam@theOThub.com Apply Webinars Lead Voluntary Ad hoc/Flexible hours Worldwide (working remotely) The Hub Team are looking for a passionate and driven occupational therapist, to help lead our work creating and showcasing educative webinars. This role would focus on growing the OT Webinars portal, accessed by Plus+ Members (full access to Plus+ resources provided). You will be enhancing your CPD portfolio and networking with occupational therapists worldwide . You will feature on our website Team page and have access to the entire platform, our social media channels and email. Projects to include : Expanding the library of video interviews, discussion topics and presentations; connecting with relevant organisations and reaching out to Members. This is a part-time, ad hoc role. No set hours are required. We ask that you engage regularly with other Hub Team members. All Team positions are currently voluntary. As The Occupational Therapy Hub’s commercial division grows, management will reward its Team for their commitment. The Occupational Therapy Hub hubteam@theOThub.com Apply Hub App Lead Voluntary Ad hoc/Flexible hours Worldwide (working remotely) The Hub Team are looking for a passionate and driven individual, to lead in updating and growing content on our iOS and Android app - The OT Hub App . You will be enhancing your CPD portfolio and networking with occupational therapists worldwide . You will feature on our website Team page and have access to the entire platform and app. Projects to include : Ensuring content on the platform (desktop and mobile sites) is echoed on the app, where possible; exploring new features and technical capabilities; providing app users with exclusive content; managing and reviewing updates, via Google Play and the App Store. This is a part-time, ad hoc role. No set hours are required. We ask that you engage regularly with other Hub Team members. All Team positions are currently voluntary. As The Occupational Therapy Hub’s commercial division grows, management will reward its Team for their commitment. The Occupational Therapy Hub hubteam@theOThub.com Apply New roles are uploaded periodically. Interested in a position, or in advertising a job? Contact the Hub Team

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OT Events Hosting, exhibiting, partnering and promoting worldwide. Including OT conferences, CPD talks and networking events. Upcoming Events Upcoming Events Date TBC Online webinar series Exploring Occupations in Occupational Therapy Date TBC Online webinar series The Occupational Therapy Hub presents its first ever live event series! We will highlight, explore and amplify voices, visions, passions and varied Occupational Therapy practice areas and settings, around the world. +24 more Details Know of an event that you think we should feature? Contact us Past Conferences Past Conferences The Occupational Therapy Show (UK) 2017-20 19, 2023 | NEC Birmingham Occupational Therapy Adaptation Conferences (UK) 2018: Midlands, Cambridge, Llanelli (Wales), Kent, Southampton 2019: Leeds, Devon, Cambridge, Reading, Kent, Cardiff Naidex (UK) 2018 | NEC Birmingham Independent Living Scotland 2018 | SEC Glasgow Top Upcoming Events Past Conferences

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What is Occupational Therapy? Information and public awareness Questions and answers, quotes, videos and graphics about the health and social care profession of occupational therapy (OT). "Occupational therapy - where science , creativity and compassion collide." Jessica Kensky (2016 AOTA Welcome Ceremony) "Occupational therapy: Arguably the most empowering , creative , holistic and meaning-enhancing health and social care profession. We are proud to use client-centred outcome measures, models of practice and prioritise active engagement in self-care, productivity and leisure. We are occupational therapy practitioners. Adding life to days ." Jamie Grant - Occupational Therapist; Director, The Occupational Therapy Hub "Occupational therapy training provides the occupational therapist with the skills to plan and deliver purposeful, meaningful activity . Occupational therapists and assistants believe that doing things that you enjoy has a positive impact on your health and well-being. Our occupations, or activities, provided us with a role , routine and structure . They define who we are , fill our time and prevent us from boredom" Alice McGarvie - Occupational Therapist, From the Harp "We see humans as having an inherent need to act – to do things. We can break down these actions (or occupations) into what we want to do , what we need to do and the skills we need to be able to do them. While there will always be some overlap, an example might be that I want to play the guitar and I need to be able to go to the toilet. There are also a range of (physical, cognitive, emotional) skills that I need, to be able to manage both of these occupations. A big factor that impacts on my ability to do these things is the environment around me. If my social environment doesn’t like the sound of bad guitar players, my progress will be hampered. The environment will hinder my functioning. If my toilet is upstairs and I can’t use my legs then again, the environment is not helping me to do what I need. OT practitioners help people to identify the things they want and need to do in their lives, identify areas where skills development is needed and assess how the environment helps or hinders people in achieving their goals ." Keir Harding - Occupational Therapist; Clinical Lead, Beam Consultancy What is occupational therapy? Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Video created by Occupational Therapist Hannah Spencer (@hspenceruk ), 2019. Whilst on student placement in a Learning Disabilities and Mental Health setting, Hannah produced a selection of easy read laminates about occupational therapy and the OT Process. The resources produced evidenced understanding of the profession, the OT Process and the PEO model, presented in a way that demonstrated consideration of patients' needs. Graphic by Hay, OTR MOT (@thatnerdyneuroot ), 2022. We love how the ethos of occupational therapy is captured in this image. Hay says she is 'Blessed to be a part of this amazing profession, to serve individuals in their everyday lives!' OT FAQ Why choose occupational therapy as a career? There are a breadth of reasons to choose to become an occupational therapist. Below are a key few: Making a genuine difference to people's everyday lives - meaning, roles, confidence, ability Working with varied groups of people - children, teenagers, adults, the elderly; cultural and socio-economic contrasts Working in varied settings - hospitals, schools, the community, charities, prisons; statutory and private services Having career flexibility, to retrain and specialise within other areas of practice This video provides insights into why others chose this career path: [Source: Royal College of Occupational Therapists] The Occupational Therapy Africa Regional Group (OTARG) share this short video clip. It highlights that, to be truly fulfilled and successful in the world of occupational therapy, you must have a passion for the work you are doing: [Credit: OTARG] OTARG is a non-profit professional organisation for occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants, occupational therapy technicians and students in Africa, aiming to promote OT in Africa. In universities across Canada, occupational therapy students took part in the 'gOT Spirit Challenge', an annual competition to promote the profession. Watch this lighthearted, lively entry from Queen's University: [Source: Queen's University 2016; YouTube - Dustin Thatcher] What makes a successful occupational therapy practitioner? Key skills, abilities and knowledge A warm bedside manner Excellent rapport-building Excellent communication skills​​​​​​ Knowledge of psychology Sensitivity and understanding Ability to use your initiative Flexible and open to change Knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses Patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations Ability to design and develop individual treatment programmes Ability to form good working relationships with a wide variety of people Ability to motivate patients/clients who may be disappointed or frustrated Counselling skills, including active listening and a non-judgemental approach Competent use of computer and main software packages [Source: National Careers Service] Source: RCOT [YouTube] Useful articles 10 Reasons Why You Will Succeed as an Occupational Therapist: OT Career Path Career Advice Articles: American Occupational Therapy Association Source: icould Career Stories [YouTube] 13 Essential Characteristics of Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants Exceptional communication skills While working with the patients, occupational therapists need to listen and explain them the situations and tasks. If they are working with a child patient, they must be capable of converting the complex terms into simpler ones so that the child can understand it. Besides this, they also need to communicate with other team members and doctors. So, it is necessary for them to be clear, efficient, and confident while listening and speaking at the time of such discussions. Outstanding personal skills These professionals work with the patients of all age groups undergoing any physical, mental or emotional disability. Also, the basic nature of the patients varies a lot. Some may be very calm while others may be rude, frustrated or impatient. Thus, they must know the way to deal with all of them and help them get the desired results faster. Problem solving abilities Problem solving skills play a vital role in the jobs related to occupational therapy. Different clients may have different problems. For the success of the cases, you must make a strategy on how to solve all these distinctive issues effectively, without any major failure. Physical strength Physical strength is quite a major requisite for the occupational therapists and related job titles. They have to serve the clients throughout the day, travel from one area to another and stand by the side of the patients irrespective of the time and duration. Thus, if you want to be an OT, you must have a great physical strength to manage such a busy and hectic schedule. Possess a helpful nature An occupational therapist should be very helpful as this is all that they have to show in their profile. It is one of the most important qualities they must possess otherwise they can’t give their best to the patients. All day long, they should be ready to assist the clients for every type of help they want. From helping them in moving around to guiding them through some money related problems, an occupational therapist has to be the guardian angel to their client. Organisation skills For being a proficient occupational therapist, one must be a good organiser. Along with their own schedule, they also need to manage the client’s timetable. Also, they have to properly maintain all the documented records, appointments, meetings with other team members and professionals, etc. Only an organised occupational therapist can provide a well-planned treatment and high-quality care to the patients, so its a must that s/he must have management skills. Boast patience It is easier to write “Keep Patience” to a patient’s ward, but it is not so easy to implement the same. Patience is believed to be the most important attribute that one must have to be in this profession. Sometimes, occupational therapists might have to face rude, impatient, frustrated, depressed or stubborn patients. So, they must keep their patience to tread through these everyday situations. Some clients may achieve success in their condition in a few months or weeks while some may take years. So, you just need to keep hold of the case to be an efficient occupational therapist. Compassion and empathy One should opt occupational therapy as a career only if s/he is empathetic and compassionate. Most of the clients of occupational therapy are not only physically disabled but also, mentally and emotionally sensitive. In that phase of life, they need a genuinely warm-hearted and sympathetic occupational therapist who understands them and treats them accordingly. Acquire creativity No one can learn to be creative as it is an inherent characteristic of human beings. Being an occupational therapist, many times you have to modify the tasks and schedule of the patients. For example, you can take a desolate kid to have fun at an amusement park, instead of taking him to a general rehabilitation centre. Your creative methods can help the clients come out of the dilemma and it may result into their active participation in the healthcare programs organised by you. Good writing skills Akin to communication skills, writing qualities are also quite important to became a highly efficient occupational therapist. It is because you need to keep the detailed files and records of all the clients in order to assist them, their family, and your team. You should state the exact condition of the patients on the papers so that it is easier for you and the medical staff to understand what you are doing and exactly how you are doing it. Keeping the details documented will not only help you and the healthcare staff but also the caretakers when you are not around. 'Cheerleading' skills Being an occupational therapist, your words must have the power to motivate your patients and ignite the passion in them to make their life normal once again. Motivation is very important for such depressed, frustrated and troubled people. An enthusiastic OT with great cheerleading skills can make the patients do the things that seem impossible. A good observer Besides being a good listener, a successful occupational therapist must also be a good observer and analytical. S/he should have the ability to analyse the situation and needs of the patients along with handling their complaints. An OT must observe and evaluate the things and procedures that are suitable for their clients and must act accordingly. For example, if a patient moves abnormally, a good OT would recognise the reason for it and would plan the course of the patient accordingly. Flexibility You never know what kind of client you are going to deal with, as disorders can happen to anyone and they may need your assistance. Thus, being an occupational therapist, you should be flexible enough to work with a wide variety of people. You must have the ability to establish a good inter-relationship bond with them, irrespective of their religion, race or nationality. [Source: Top Occupational Therapy Schools] Working environment, hours and salary? You will usually work standard office hours, Monday to Friday. Some services, such as within community physical health and inpatient mental health, work on a shift basis. This can include working early, late or weekend shifts. You could work with clients at a variety of settings, including: hospitals health centres residential or nursing homes GP surgeries schools prisons in the community at a client's home or workplace You will need mental and physical stamina, as this is a very practical job. [Source: National Careers Service] Salary? The average salary of an Occupational Therapist varies significantly internationally. Salary rates can also vary between private and and public health services. If you are seeking to become an Occupational Therapist to make a fortune, you are looking at the wrong career. Occupational Therapists generally earn equivalent salaries to other health professionals, such as Nurses and Social Workers. An Occupational Therapist's salary will generally increase with years of service and level of experience. Source: Health Careers (October 2019) What are the entry requirements to the profession? Depending on your country and proposed university of study, entry level to occupational therapy can be at apprenticeship, diploma, bachelor, masters or doctoral level. To be accepted into an occupational therapy educational program you will need to meet its specific admission requirements and prerequisites. Once graduated you will likely need to be registered with a health registration board and will be subject to background checks and annual registration requirements, such as continuing professional development (CPD). As an example, in the UK, you will need: an apprenticeship, degree or postgraduate qualification in occupational therapy, approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) professional registration with the HCPC to pass enhanced background checks, as you may be working with children and vulnerable adults To do a postgraduate course in occupational therapy, you will usually need a degree in a related subject and some relevant paid or voluntary work experience. [Source: National Careers Service] How do I go about finding and applying to a university? You can search for approved entry level occupational therapy educational programs worldwide, on the World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT)'s website. Some countries may allow programs that are not WFOT approved, but this may this may restrict you working in certain countries or access to further study (Source: WFOT). The tertiary admissions process is likely to be slightly different between countries, so we recommend that you make contact with the university directly to check their admissions process. It is often recommended that you visit at least one occupational therapy service for job shadowing, prior to university interviews. Universities need to know you have some insight into what the career involves! Can I work as an Occupational Therapist in another country? Yes! If you are a qualified Occupational Therapist you can work in different countries. Every country has slightly different requirements, regarding a working visa, professional indemnity insurance, occupational therapy registration, association membership, etc. Some countries, such as the United States of America, also require you to pass a certification exam. If you are wanting more information about working overseas, read this useful publication: Occupational Therapy International Practice Guide 2020 (WFOT). More sources of information: Contribute content: Search the Hub Therapy Forum Share knowledge here

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Contact us Membership queries? Collaborative opportunities? Share feedback Connect with the Hub (Contact) Connect with the Hub Message sent! We'll be in touch soon. Send (+44) 07704 514 523 hubteam@theOThub.com The Occupational Therapy Hub The Occupational Therapy Hub @theOThub the.occupational.therapy.hub

< Specialisms Resources + Services Portal Cultural Considerations + Useful resources and services, for your care and career. This is an expanding directory and community suggestions are not definitive. K now of a resource or service that should be featured? Suggest an entry Have Wheelchair Will Travel Surely we cant be the first people to do this? I kept asking our travel agent, the airline and our therapists. We certainly are not the first family with a disabled child to travel to America, but at times it felt that way. That was when the idea for this website came to me. Why not share all my research and great discoveries with others who are either, planning a trip, or are feeling nervous about giving it a go.' ​ Julie Jones combines her skills as an ex-travel consultant with her experiences travelling with her family, including her son who lives with cerebral palsy. Have Wheelchair Will Travel has an engaged community with a range of backgrounds, including people living with a disability, therapists, educators, teachers and tourism representatives. This brings a wealth of information and experience to the website and Facebook page. - Bupa Travel Blog Award: Winner - Ausmumpreneur Heart & Edge Award: Winner - ASTW Best Travel Blog: Finalist Email us: havewchairwilltravel@gmail.com Find us on Facebook: facebook.com/havewheelchairwilltravel [AUSTRALIA-BASED; INFORMATION APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Institute for Sex, Intimacy and Occupational Therapy We are an education business with a mission to help guide occupational therapy professionals to becoming more competent and confident addressing sexuality and intimacy in their clinical practice. We offer educational webinars to help clinicians translate knowledge into clinical practice. Through the Institute for Sex, Intimacy and Occupational Therapy, we are building a coalition of sex and intimacy OT champions, to dismantle the restrictive norms around discussing sexuality and intimacy. Join us! ​ [US-BASED RESOURCE; INFORMATION APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Kawa Model The Kawa Model is a therapeutic model of occupational therapy practice, developed by Dr Michael Iwama and Occupational Therapists in Japan. It uses the natural metaphor of a river to depict one’s life journey. ​ [FOUNDED IN JAPAN; APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > LGBTQ and OT This website is designed to connect OT practitioners, educators, and students to the resources and information that they need to improve OT services for LGBTQ clients in many settings. This website offers cultural awareness resources, information on how LGBTQ identities can impact occupational performance, advice on how to make clinics more LGBTQ friendly and more. ​ [INFORMATION RELEVANT WORLDWIDE] Visit > Occupational Therapy in Ghana - article by Ann Sena Fordie Occupational therapy is a healthcare profession aimed at enabling people to live life to its fullest. The therapist will want to know “What matters to you?” not “What’s the matter with you?” In Ghana, many workers in all aspect of professions have overlooked, or are unwitting, of the importance and existence of occupational therapy. Read more... ​ [AFRICA: GHANA INSIGHT] Visit > OccupationalTherapyOT.com An occupational therapy blog by Occupational Therapists Deepam Pawar and Payal Mehta Pawar, who trained in Nagpur, India. This site can be referred as OT resources for therapists, educators, special needs teachers, and parents/caregivers and other health care professionals. A resource for parents who are looking for occupational therapy activities that can be done at home and with household materials. Skill areas include fine motor, gross motor, sensory strategies, and cognitive strategies. This blog also has information about common disorders in which Occupational Therapists deal, including autism, ADHD, learning disability, cerebral palsy and Down’s Syndrome. ​ [FOUNDED IN INDIA; RESOURCES APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Visit > Ocupando los Márgenes Ocupando los Margenes - or Occupying the Margins is a website that promotes critical reflection in and from the margins of occupational therapy; it explores practice and principles outside conventional settings or countries. ​ Occupational therapy is explored in relation to human rights, equality, occupational justice and social transformation. Content includes perspectives from life in Rwanda and interventions with child refugees in Greece. The blog aids to improve reflexive thinking about principle concerns which ought to be approached by occupational therapy. ​ This website is in Spanish, but can be easily translated, through a Google Translate pop-up on your browser. ​ [SPANISH WEBSITE - TRANSLATION AVAILABLE; INFORMATION APPLICABLE WORLD-WIDE] Visit >