SFC launches new framework for occupational therapists

Skills for Care (SFC) has launched a new resource aimed at supporting new and former occupational therapists working in adult social care.

Occupational therapists play a central role in supporting people who use care and support services, enabling them to engage, as independently as possible, in the activities that enhance their health and wellbeing.

The Learning and Development Framework for occupational therapists has been developed by the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) and Skills for Care (SFC) following a review of current legislation.

A spokesman for SFC said the appraisal highlighted a need for profession-specific guidance for a newly qualified occupational therapist, those who are new to working in social care, those who are coming back to work in social care and those who are managing occupational therapy staff.

The spokesman said the new framework is based on the four pillars of practice in the RCOT Career Development Framework and will provide profession-specific support and guidance to occupational therapists and allow them to identify the skills they already have and those that you need to develop. Skills for Care interim CEO Andy Tilden said:

‘We know the vital contribution the 3500 occupational therapists in England alone make to our sector day in and day out.

‘This practical framework is another positive result of our long-standing working relationship with the Royal College of Occupational Therapists that will support the learning and development needs of this key group of registered professionals at different stages of their careers.’

SFC estimate it will take approximately 12 months for individuals to work through all the elements of the framework, but this will depend upon factors such as working hours, patterns of work and specific employer requirements.

Karin Bishop, RCOT director of professional operations said the new framework will enable occupational therapists to deliver safe and effective services for the people who need them.

‘We are proud to work with Skills for Care to deliver this practical resource for both occupational therapists who work in social care and their managers.

‘Occupational therapists play a crucial role in supporting people who access social care to lead the lives they want.

‘The new framework will support their learning, enabling them to deliver safe and effective services for the people who access them.’

Click here for more information.

Photo Credit – Pixabay