As we draw to the end of 2018, RCOT would like to wish all its members, staff and supporters a very happy winter break.
2018 has been another fantastic year for the organisation. We are now working towards our Strategic Intentions 2018 – 2023 that were launched in the presence of our Royal Patron, HRH The Princess Royal, in May. Thanks to all of you who have made your pledges to help support us in achieving these intentions.
Read more about the Strategic Intentions launch and how to make a pledge
We had another successful Annual Conference, held for the first time in twenty years in Northern Ireland. Belfast was a wonderful host city for the 1,100 plus delegates, who had the opportunity to listen to over 200 presentations, including four plenary sessions and the annual Casson lecture.
RCOT’s Celebration of Excellence in Occupational Therapy Awards took place at the Shard. Over twenty awards and grants were presented to recipients for a broad range of occupational practice and research. Julia Scott commented on the night:
“The occupational therapy profession is on the up, delivering new and innovative services in the rapidly changing world of health, care, work, criminal justice, research and housing. It is the people who win awards... who are key to our forward momentum.”
In addition to these great events, RCOT published three further Improving Lives, Saving Money reports – looking at the contribution of occupational therapists in prisons, the fire service and occupational therapy in mental health services. All were well received by policy and decision makers and RCOT continues to work hard to influence at this level.
The Career Development Framework was a year old in September and a review identified that members are using it effectively to apply for jobs, secure promotions and identify training needs.
To wrap up the year, Julia Scott concludes:
“2018 has been a great year for RCOT as we continue to provide great value to our 33,000 members. However, we are only as strong as our membership, so the achievements of this year would not have been possible without our exceptional members. We wish you a very restful break and look forward to working with you again in 2019 – let's make it even better!”