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Call to action
While the group is actively recruiting for LGBTQIA + identifying RCOT members to join them , they are also keen to expand and continue to work together beyond the pilot in some capacity and welcome any interested LGBTQIA + identifying RCOT members to get in touch via Ketan Dave , RCOT ’ s Equity , Diversity and Belonging Lead , at ketan . dave @ rcot . co . uk . And look out for engagement events during Pride Month .
goals – hence the recent review from steering to advisory group .
There ’ s a general feeling that they ’ ve not been able to really showcase their work and demonstrate to members their influence ; almost meaning the group is acting ‘ behind the scenes ’.
‘ Our role has , in the most part , been one more of reference than steer ,’ Hannah reflects . ‘ In one sense , it almost feels like the scope is too big to keep focus , but I think part of that is embedding us into process and business as usual . Both group and organisation will then grow in understanding and confidence and the collaboration becomes more effective .’
From a personal reflection point of view , individual group members have learned a lot from the whole experience ; both positive and not so . The group accept that they had differing expectations when joining and that they were navigating uncharted waters – which has led to numerous challenges – and that progress can be slow . But , as Rachael expresses it , ‘ riding the storm together is far easier than doing it alone ’.
Sue says : ‘ My expectations were that we would have more power than we actually did , which has been challenging at times and has made me question RCOT ’ s genuine commitment to EDB . However , the support and interest of key senior staff has been invaluable to our progress and our recent review does feel like we are now getting somewhere .’
Reflecting on what the group might have done differently at the start , it ’ s clear the themes are around better defining group members ’ roles and responsibilities and setting clearer ( and earlier ) goals , meeting purpose and agendas and managing expectations . But the whole group is keen to encourage everyone to get involved in some way .
‘ Sticking your head above the parapet , at any time , for any cause , can be daunting ,’ says Rachael . ‘ It can also feel very lonely . But we are the perfect example of how taking that step can result in
something beautiful and to foster a sense of belonging .
‘ Personally , I have made lifelong friends and great connections within the world of occupational therapy since becoming more involved with the work that RCOT do .’
For Thomas , his biggest surprise – ‘ given our philosophical underpinnings ’ – has been to find that equity , diversity and belonging ‘ are ideas that RCOT and our profession ( in the UK ) have only recently started to explore and engage with ’.
He says : ‘ As a student , I feel this is a massive oversight of our profession . RCOT has an important role to play in elevating the concepts of intersectionality , equality and inclusion , and of equity , diversity and belonging .’
Hannah concludes : ‘ Authenticity , particularly with respect to LGBTQIA + identity , can be a vulnerable place , but I think it is reiterated that integrity and staying true to our values and who we are liberates others and gives folks permission to do the same .
‘ In being who we are , we can influence change , even if it ’ s a small conversation and momentary shared insight . Its impact will ripple and shouldn ’ t be underestimated .’
Words SUE KENNY , HANNAH SPENCER , JAY WEBSTER , THOMAS WILLIAMS and RACHAEL DANIELS , in conversation with Tracey Samuels , Editor of OTnews . With many thanks to previous members of the pilot , as well as current members who still engage with the group , but only occasionally due to competing commitments .
© FG Trade via Getty Images
June 2023 OTnews 23