Occupational therapists (OTs) play a vital role in adult social care—supporting people to live safely, independently and meaningfully in their own homes and communities. As a DASS, recognising and enabling this contribution is central to your leadership.
OTs are registered professionals regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). They bring a holistic, person-centred perspective—working with people to achieve outcomes that matter to them in their daily lives.
Their work includes:
- Enabling people to regain or maintain independence through rehabilitation, reablement and adaptation.
- Assessing for and prescribing equipment and assistive technology.
- Supporting hospital discharge and preventing readmission.
- Advising on environmental and housing solutions that promote safety and dignity.
In adult social care, OTs are often embedded in multi-disciplinary teams and may work alongside social workers, reablement officers and community nurses. They also contribute to safeguarding, risk assessment, and complex case management.
Your responsibilities include:
- Ensuring that OT expertise is embedded in policy, commissioning and system design.
- Supporting the professional development and supervision of OTs.
- Promoting OT involvement in co-production, prevention and integrated care.
Principal Occupational Therapists (POTs) are emerging leadership roles in some authorities. Where they exist, they can provide assurance, professional leadership and workforce development—complementing the role of the Principal Social Worker.
The OT workforce is diverse and skilled—but often under-recognised. Invest in its visibility, capability and leadership. Encourage career pathways and specialist roles. Link with national bodies such as the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) to shape good practice and influence policy.
OTs are practical problem-solvers, creative enablers, and champions of independence. Their contribution is essential to strengths-based, community-focused care.
Your leadership can help it flourish.