Specialist Sections

Share information, network and promote good practice

Specialist Sections are branches of the College of Occupational Therapists that provide professional direction and leadership for occupational therapists working in specialist areas of practice

The Specialist Sections’ main aims are to:

  • raise awareness and promote the development of knowledge and skills
  • promote and enable continuing professional development (CPD)
  • promote research and support the use of evidence to inform practice
  • disseminate information and provide communication networks
  • support members new to the practice area
  • function as a resource to provide expertise at national and local levels
  • act as advisors and influencers for and on behalf of the profession and the College

 

Why join a Specialist Section?

  • access to a UK wide network of occupational therapists working in your specialist area and opportunities to meet like minded people
  • expert professional knowledge and resources to support you in practice
  • receive up to date news, via newsletters, bulletins, social media, website and journals
  • professional development and opportunities to attend conferences, learning events and study days
  • reduced Specialist Section membership rates for learning events
  • most Specialist Sections offer grants for research, professional development and events
  • information and advice from free publications dedicated to your area of practice, including briefings, evidence based guidelines, advice, best practice information, research
  • Clinical Forums which are dedicated, speciality sub groups providing support, networking, clinical leadership and lobbying
  • opportunities to get involved in policy, practice, strategy, briefings, to develop practice guidelines and leadership skills

Get involved in Specialist Sections leaflet
 
Find out more about the benefits of joining a specialist section while nembers can read our briefing: Information for Specialist Sections, along with the Specialist Sections Annual Report 2010-11 or Annual Report 2009-10.

Who can join a Specialist Section?

All British Association of Occupational Therapists (BAOT) members can be members of the Specialist Sections.

How much does it cost?

There is an annual fee to join a Specialist Section, but they do vary by Specialist Section. You can claim tax relief on 75% of your BAOT and Specialist Sections’ fees if you are a UK tax payer.

Can I belong to more than one Specialist Section?

Yes, you can belong to as many Specialist Sections as you want.

How do I join?

Complete a membership form for the relevant Specialist Section which can be downloaded from the individual Specialist Sections pages.
 

 

News

Mental Health Awareness Week 2012

Tue, 22/05/2012 - 17:38
It is Mental Health Awareness week (21-27 May), with a theme of 'Doing Good, Does You Good', based around the idea that doing good things for others can reduce stress, improve your emotional wellbeing and even benefit your physical health. ... Read more

A Life More Ordinary: findings from the Long-Term Neurological Conditions Research Initiative published

Tue, 22/05/2012 - 16:57
A Life More Ordinary ‘provides a summary of the... Read more

Free publications for COT Annual Conference delegates

Mon, 14/05/2012 - 16:51
COT Annual Conference delegates who attend ‘80... Read more

OTs use of occupation-focused practice in secure hospitals

Thu, 03/05/2012 - 16:26
COTSS Mental Health Forensic Forum is delighted to... Read more

Occupational Therapy is vital to stroke recovery, survey shows

Tue, 01/05/2012 - 12:31
A survey carried out by the Stroke Association has... Read more
Events
  • Wednesday 19th September 2012 - Thursday 20th September 2012
     ...
  • Wednesday 12th September 2012 - Wednesday 12th September 2012
    COTSS: Work...
  • Thursday 5th July 2012 - Friday 6th July 2012
     ...
  • Thursday 31st May 2012 - Thursday 31st May 2012
      London Children Young People and Families Specialist Section Learn to integrate the key perspectives of Attachment Theory and Sensory-Integrative Theory Cost: £35 per member of CYPF SS £65 per non member of CYPF SS...