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There has been a surge in demand for occupational therapy, driven by an increase in people with multiple and complex health conditions, according to new research from the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT).
The research, published in the British Journal of Occupational Therapy, found that two-thirds of occupational therapists are facing mounting pressures, leaving people without the right support at the right time.
The RCOT is now calling on the government, the NHS, and service commissioners to tackle staffing shortages, ensuring teams have sufficient capacity to meet rising demand. They also want support with digital and emerging AI technologies, as well as more meaningful contact with service users to help them reach their goals.
Occupational therapy and learning disability
Occupational therapists work across health, social care, education and private practice with adults and children of all ages who have a wide range of conditions, including those with learning disabilities and autistic people. They help them overcome challenges in completing everyday tasks.
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Over 2,200 UK occupational therapists took part in the research, which examined issues such as understaffing, wider system capacity, stress, and system challenges.
Despite the pressures, over half of OTs surveyed (57%) said they were satisfied with their roles. Occupational therapists are primarily staying in the profession because they want to help people achieve their goals (64%) and enjoy direct contact with the people accessing their services (61%), highlighting the strong values and commitment that drive the profession.
Lead researcher, Dr Elizabeth Taylor, Research and Development Manager at the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, said: “The findings show significant pressure from rising demand for occupational therapy, mainly driven by the increasing complexity of people’s health needs.
“Occupational therapists are working hard to help people live their lives, but services are under real pressure. If we don’t tackle staff shortages and system challenges soon, people won’t get the support they need when they need it.”
