RCOT Membership – Everything Occupational Therapists should know

Did you know if you’re an occupational therapist you can get a Royal College of Occupational Therapists Membership? It is an easy joining process and has many benefits for your career and personal development. Keep reading to find out more information about it.

The Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) is committed to promoting the value and benefits of occupational therapy. It is owned by the governing body of occupational therapy, The British Association of Occupational Therapists. RCOT sets all the professional and educational standards of the profession and represents it on a national and international level, therefore it is a great organisation to be a part of.

Firstly, you need to register an account here, which requires you to fill out a simple form with some basic information. Once you have logged in click the ‘Join RCOT’ tab on your dashboard to view the types of membership you can get.

There are different memberships to choose from so you can pick the best one suited for you and your stage in your career. You can view the criteria of each membership and make sure that you qualify, these include:

• Professional membership
• Self-employed membership
• Career break member
• Overseas membership
• Student membership
• Associate membership
• Retired member

The membership allows you to access many benefits, view some of them below:

Continued Professional Development (CPD)

Get access to RCOT’s Career Development Framework to guide you into growing the best career possible. Along with this, you will get access to additional learning resources and opportunities to reach your CPD requirements and develop your skills and practice.

Increase your employability

You can put your membership title on your CV, which is recognised by employers and will show your dedication to the profession. You could also put some of the exclusive courses you have completed as part of your CPD on your CV to show which areas or skills you have actively worked to develop.

Have guaranteed guidance and support throughout your career

There are many resources, points of contact and even professional advisors that can help you resolve any issues, or concerns or simply just give you advice on your next steps within the career.

Have your say and influence policy

Be part of professional networks, including local and regional groups, email networks, specialist sections, the ability to join the World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT) and much more. You can have your say and influence the policies through these networks. There is also an ambassador programme in place, which will give you the resources to help promote the value of the profession.