Specialist Sections

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

 
Members can find out more about the benefits of joining a specialist section by reading our briefing: Information for Specialist Sections, along with the Specialist Sections Annual Report 2011-2012.

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.

• Children, Young People & Families
• HIV AIDS, Oncology & Palliative Care
• Housing
• Independent Practice
• Mental Health
• Neurological Practice
• Older People
• People with Learning Disabilities
• Rheumatology
• Trauma & Orthopeadic
• Work

Get involved Join a Specialist Section to support your CPD

• Increase your knowledge
• Share and develop your Practice
• Download the leaflet which offers more information.

Benefits of joining

• Access to a national network of Occupational Therapists working in a specialist area of practice.
• Information, newsletters, email bulletins, website
• Access to study events and conferences.
• Funding opportunities.
• Opportunities to contribute to UK policy, practice guidelines and practice development.