Editor ’ s note
Editor ’ s note
Welcome to OTnews
We end 2023 with exciting news from RCOT . On 30 November , we launched our EDB Strategy , following the consultation that took place over the summer . The strategy has been shaped and guided by a wide range of voices and perspectives across the profession , including members , staff and public contributors .
On pages 16 to 19 , we talk to some of those involved about how critical the strategy is to achieving RCOT ’ s vision that by 2027 , we will be recognised as a bold , progressive advocate of equity and social justice . They also talk about how the strategy is inspiring them to take action .
And at the start of this month , it was revealed that RCOT membership now includes free access to your very own CPD portfolio . RCOT has teamed up with CPDme , to give you access to an online platform and app designed to make recording your continuing professional development both easy and accessible .
With the CPD portfolio you can store all your CPD in one place – so no more piles of paper . It ’ s designed to help you meet the Health and Care Professions Council ’ s CPD standards and it ’ s easy to make CPD diary entries and record your reflections . Turn to pages 12 and 13 to find out all about it .
In features this month , and still on the topic of equity , diversity and belonging , we look at the University of Southampton ’ s developing action on allyship within its occupational therapy programme . Turn to pages 20 to 23 .
While on pages 24 to 27 , Melissa Chieza , an occupational therapist by background who is working as a primary care mental health liaison practitioner in four GP practices across Hertfordshire , talks about the increase in the number of university students seeking support from GP services regarding their mental health and how her role is supporting them .
This is followed by two further features that focus on the role of occupational therapy in university student support services .
Clare Copley explains how the implementation of a non-conventional student support offer at Leeds Conservatoire has helped bridge the gap between student mental health , counselling services and disability support , to provide a more inclusive and accessible service . While Josie Holding talks about her own placement experience there .
I hope you enjoy these and the rest of this issue , and if you want to share your work in 2024 , please get in touch .
Tracey Samuels Editor
I ’ d love to hear from you
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 : editorial @ rcot . co . uk
December 2023 OTnews 3