Of course , words alone are never enough . So , we ’ ll keep working with our members , staff and stakeholders , both to deliver this strategy and continue to learn . For us , equity , diversity and belonging aren ’ t optional extras that only affect certain people . These issues affect everyone , both within and beyond our profession – and we are all responsible .”
Of course , words alone are never enough . So , we ’ ll keep working with our members , staff and stakeholders , both to deliver this strategy and continue to learn . For us , equity , diversity and belonging aren ’ t optional extras that only affect certain people . These issues affect everyone , both within and beyond our profession – and we are all responsible .”
our professional body . My priority is to help engage with all our members and ensure that equality and inclusion is at the heart of all the work we do for you …
‘ Of course , words alone are never enough . So , we ’ ll keep working with our members , staff and stakeholders , both to deliver this strategy and continue to learn . For us , equity , diversity and belonging aren ’ t optional extras that only affect certain people . These issues affect everyone , both within and beyond our profession – and we are all responsible .’
On how the priorities are inspiring her to take action , Rachel says : ‘ The EDB Strategy priorities serve as powerful motivators to prompt us to take proactive steps in supporting others .
‘ As occupational therapists , our driving force is the desire to assist individuals in achieving their collaborative goals and facilitating positive change . Empowerment , open communication , support and personal growth are the concepts that inspire and motivate us .’
And reflecting on how the strategy launch demonstrates that RCOT is finally showing the leadership that all members deserve , she adds : ‘ It is fair to acknowledge that RCOT has not always been prompt and impartial in addressing the concerns of its members . However , its commitment to progress and the outlined goals indicate a positive shift in the right direction for both RCOT and its leadership team .’
Hannah says : The launch of strategy in itself doesn ’ t “ do ” anything , but in its co-creation , its existence , in RCOT ’ s ownership of it , in leadership accountability and the time it ’ s taken to ensure that its purpose , shape and direction is understood by the leadership team , there ’ s progress there .
‘ So often , those working to support equity , diversity and belonging are those of us who , for whatever reason , experience challenge , otherness and lack of belonging . Every experience of that , within and beyond our profession , is unacceptable and inexcusable and , for me , really doesn ’ t sit with our professional values and underpinnings , or the essence of what we ’ re about as occupational therapists .
‘ The strategy is part of a process of shifting that responsibility and sharing that work , for the benefit of all . It ’ s part of a process of cultural change ; bringing inequity , injustice , and discrimination into focus .’
They add : ‘ While , to some , the strategy might not seem ambitious enough , the process of uncomfortable , critical self-reflection and necessary action towards change will , rightly , continue .
‘ The strategy formalises these intentions and emphasises the direction that RCOT , and our profession , must move in if we ’ re to really keep equity , diversity and belonging at our heart and become ... bold , progressive advocates of equity and social justice .’
Call to action
On the one thing they would ask everyone to action on the strategy ’ s launch , Hannah says : ‘ When we walk past something , we accept it . When we remain silent , we ’ re complicit . I ’ d urge every member to do – to read , reflect , act .
‘ If you can ’ t see the relevance to yourself , look again . Critically reflect . Be curious , be humble and embrace learning , growth and change for a better , truer profession , professional environment , and future . Equity , diversity and belonging and occupational therapy aren ’ t two separates – EDB is core to OT .’
Samantha Flowers , RCOT Council Member for Scotland , urges everyone to read the strategy and share it far and wide , through their own personal and professional networks .
‘ This strategy provides a clear message of what RCOT aspires to achieve and this will – along with the planned toolkit – help to raise awareness of equity , diversity and belonging among our workforce ,’ Samantha says . ‘ But more importantly , it will promote a culture of equality and inclusion .’
Rachel also encourages everyone to ‘ share it with their colleagues , bring it to team meetings and start the conversation ’. She concludes : ‘ It is vital to emphasise that promoting equity , diversity , and belonging is a collective responsibility that
18 OTnews December 2023