February marks LGBT History Month. A month to reflect on the past and think forward into the future. So, we are reflecting on how we can unlearn and learn, and in our February issue of OTnews we hear from members of LGBTQIA+OT UK network. We’re incredibly grateful to them for sharing their experiences, thoughts on LGBTQIA+ visibility in occupational therapy, and suggestions on what you can do within your practice and in your personal learning journey to become an ally.
One of the things we’re doing as RCOT staff is taking part in an LGBT+ History Month film club. There are so many fantastic films out there exploring the LGBT+ experience, we don’t doubt this will continue past February.
And to mark Eating Disorders Awareness Week 2022, which begins on 28 February, Esther Dark shares some advice on what we can all do to play our part in the campaign. Esther explores what we can do to bring more awareness on all eating disorder presentations and how we can advocate for others where there is poor awareness and acknowledgement.
And talking on getting more involved, we are asking all our professional members this month whether you are ready for a new challenge?
Last issue, we shared RCOT’s new strategy, values and brand, and our Chief Executive, Steve Ford, said we are entering an exciting new era together. So, if you want to become a leader in the growing occupational therapy professional community, why not consider standing for election to RCOT’s governing Council?
Past Council members say their experience was stimulating, educational and rewarding. It’s an opportunity to develop your skills in a new sphere, to act as a leader in the professional community and to support your professional body.
OTnews is our monthly membership magazine. As well as the printed copy, you can also view the magazine online. If you would like to share your innovative service developments and reflections on new ways of working in a future issue, contact the editor at editorial@rcot.co.uk or tweet us @OTnews.