Commenting on the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS) Spring Survey 2024, RCOT Director of Practice and Innovation, Karin Orman, said:
‘The survey highlights serious concerns about the integration and funding of the NHS and social care. Not providing enough funding to social care services means we’re failing real people by not giving them the support they need to lead meaningful lives. Not to mention the knock-on effect it has on NHS services. If people have the right support at home, it reduces the pressure on an already-stretched healthcare service and workforce, saving money and reducing waiting lists.
‘The government needs to recognise the key role occupational therapists play in helping people recover after a period in hospital. There currently aren’t enough occupational therapists in community settings, which include social care services, to provide the support that people need to manage daily occupations, such as dressing, bathing and preparing meals. Assessing more people and meeting their needs in the community can only be achieved by expanding reablement, community rehabilitation and intermediate care.
‘The survey’s recommendations align with our own workforce strategy for occupational therapists, which calls for more occupational therapists in the community to provide the support people need where they live and work. Occupational therapists are in a unique position to deliver on this, and we look forward to working with ADASS and Integrated Care Boards to explore how occupational therapy can be positioned to bring care closer to home.’