Occupational Therapist

Occupational therapists (OTs) help people of all ages develop, recover, or maintain the skills needed for daily living and working. Their primary focus is to enable individuals to lead as independent and fulfilling a life as possible, despite any physical, mental, or social challenges they may face. OTs typically work within the NHS or in private practice, with opportunities to specialise in areas like mental health, paediatrics, or geriatrics. They work in various settings, such as hospitals, schools, care homes, prisons, and social services departments.

The roles and responsibilities of an occupational therapist are varied and can include, evaluating individuals’ motor functions, sensory processing, cognitive skills, and emotional well-being; developing an individualised plan aimed at improving an individual’s ability to carry out daily activities; helping people regain physical skills after injury or surgery; working with people who have conditions like depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia to help manage daily activities; assisting people with memory, concentration, or problem-solving challenges due to conditions like dementia or brain injuries; and providing equipment like wheelchairs, ramps, or modified kitchen tools, and suggesting changes to the living environment to make tasks easier.

Occupational therapists work closely with doctors, physiotherapists, social workers, and other health professionals to provide comprehensive care.

You will be paid under the NHS Agenda for Pay scheme, typically starting at Band 5. Currently, the Band 5 starting salary is £31,049 per year, rising to £37,796 with 4+ years’ experience.

Useful subjects to study include biology, psychology, sociology, health and social care, or PE/Sport.

To become an occupational therapist, you will need to complete an undergraduate degree in occupational therapy. It is possible to undertake a degree apprenticeship in occupational therapy, earning a salary whilst you learn. If you already have a degree in another subject, it may be possible to complete a full- or part-time postgraduate programme.

You could receive at least £5,000 a year to help fund your studies, through the NHS Learning Support Fund, which you won’t have to pay back.

Once you have successfully completed your degree, you will need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) before you can start practicing.

It is beneficial to gain some work experience before applying for an occupational therapy course. You will also be expected to understand how the NHS Values relate to your work.

To research local education and training opportunities that could lead to a career as an occupational therapist, visit our partner website >log on | move on>.

Royal College of Occupational Therapists - what is occupational therapy

Royal College of Occupational Therapists - become an occupational therapist

Health Careers - Occupational Therapist

National Careers Service - Occupational Therapist

Find an approved occupational therapist course

Want to know what it's like to work as an occupational therapist in the NHS? Watch the video in How Did You Get That Job? to find out more.