Occupational Therapy News OTnews July 2019 | Page 3

R COT’s annual conference, held this year in Birmingham, is always a thrilling couple of days that brings together hundreds of members, as well as service users, sector leaders and experts too. From students getting their first taste of the profession meeting en masse, to the government minister who very nearly became an occupational therapist herself, we have a sample of the highlights in this issue. As well as innovative new practice ideas and specialist work, conference was also an opportunity to hear the latest updates in the rapidly-developing schemes to shape apprenticeships and advanced clinical practice, as well as blue-sky thinking about what the next ‘big idea’ in the profession might look like in this year’s Casson Lecture. Our jam-packed coverage starts on page 12. Looking to where the profession goes next is a running theme this month. We also speak with NHS England’s director of acute care, Professor Keith Willett, about where the opportunities are for occupational therapists in and out of the hospital. As the man behind England’s major trauma editor’s comment networks and centres, he knows the value of rehabilitation and what occupational therapists have to offer. Read more on what he thinks members need to do to take the rehabilitation agenda forward on page 24. It is no secret that occupational therapists are a creative bunch and we have three great examples this issue. Students at the University of East Anglia used the space offered by self- directed study to develop identity pots, bringing occupational science to life and showing students what opportunities are offered by creativity (see page 38). Dr Ana Lucia Borges da Costa brings her experiences as a circle dance teacher together with her work as an occupational therapy lecturer, looking at how circle dances offer possibilities in practice and in research (page 34). And you can follow the development of a new project that brings together occupational therapists and product designers to create sensory cushions on page 40, creatively developing a new way to offer uncomplicated activity for people living with advanced dementia. Lastly, our cover story is a fascinating look at work in inpatient acute mental health wards to co-produce and co-deliver a recovery journey. The value of supporting people’s ability to manage their health and wellbeing has been recognised in government policy and in RCOT’s Improving Lives, Saving Money campaign – this is a wonderful example of professionals and service users working together to make sure that people feel supported and invested in recovery. Turn to page 28 to read more. Tracey Samuels, Editor If you have any feedback about this issue of OTnews, or would like to contribute a short article or feature for a future publication, please email me at: [email protected]