Occupational therapy in adult social care in England: sustaining a high quality workforce for the future
Occupational therapists (OTs) are a small but crucial part of the adult social care workforce. There is a constant demand for OT services and this is likely to increase as a result of demographic change. This research was commissioned by the College of Occupational Therapists/ Department of Health following a recognised need to sustain an OT workforce for the future by improving student placements opportunities and supporting newly qualified staff. Research was conducted in 2008 through an online survey of OTs and their managers in adult social care services and online focus groups with practice placement educators and newly qualified staff. Findings highlight the need to promote and improve OT career opportunities in social care ; diversify roles and provide high quality placements in order to attract new graduates into this sector.