As we move into the summer months, I want to share some key updates on AOTI’s ongoing work and highlight important developments affecting our profession and those we serve.
Work continues across Strategy 2024–2029 priority areas. Our working groups on communications and advocacy; advanced practice; higher education and Occupational Therapy assistants are progressing well, supported by the insights and expertise of our staff and members. We are also continuing to advocate on issues such as the need for investment in practice education to support the planned increase in Occupational Therapy college places. Along with HSCP professional bodies and the College of Psychiatrists of Ireland, we have written to the HSE stating we do not endorse the Autism Assessment and Intervention Protocol in its current format due to outstanding concerns and have requested an urgent meeting. We will be meeting with Department of Education officials in early July to discuss the Education Therapy Support Service and the provision of therapies in Special schools.
I am very pleased to see the National Occupational Therapist Manager Advisory Group (NOTMAG) relaunched and gaining momentum. I’m deeply conscious of how challenging the role of OT Manager has become in recent years, as well as the growing threats to the role itself. These pressures only highlight the importance of the peer support, shared problem-solving and collective advocacy that NOTMAG provides. Their new monthly online drop-in meetings are already proving valuable for connection and solidarity. I strongly encourage OT Managers to engage – whether you’re navigating service pressures, seeking advice from peers or adding your voice to national advocacy, NOTMAG is here to support you.
An issue that has captured national attention is the recent RTÉ Investigates: Inside Ireland’s Nursing Home programme. The upsetting scenes of neglect and substandard care in two facilities in Dublin and Portlaoise serve as a stark reminder of how vulnerable older people can be without proper safeguards. The AOTI Management Team discussed this at our recent meeting and will be consulting with our Older Person’s Advisory Group to see how we can work with others in the sector to advocate for real change. The Irish Times, recently published an opinion piece by Prof Des O’Neill who authored the Leas Cross report on failures in nursing home care 20 years ago. In his article, Prof O’Neill highlights that only a statutory adult safeguarding law – backed by a stronger, faster HIQA inspection and enforcement regime – will prevent a repeat of the terrible failures exposed by RTE. However, Prof O’Neill also argues that regulation alone will not solve the problem and that radical reform is needed. He says we need to shift the care model away from profit-driven chains and foster a genuine culture of dignity and ethical care among both staff and management. For anyone who hasn’t seen Prof O’Neill’s piece, I recommend you read it.
Safe staffing in Occupational Therapy services remains a key concern across all services. The Management Team is currently consulting with our 19 Advisory Groups to gather available data that will inform an AOTI position paper on safe staffing levels. This work aims to support members and OT Managers in making the case for additional resourcing by articulating the minimum staffing levels needed to deliver safe, effective and occupation-focused services. We hope this will be a practical and empowering tool for advocacy at local and national levels. If any member has information on staffing they feel would be useful, please email our Director of Professional Operations, Laura Horan, at [email protected].
As always, thank you for the work you do, often in difficult circumstances. AOTI remains committed to ensuring Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants are supported, represented and valued. Your engagement in AOTI activities strengthens our collective work – and the more we connect, the stronger we become as a profession. I also want to remind members of the many resources available on our website. Whether you are seeking guidance on professional issues, CPD opportunities or support the members’ area continues to grow as a practical hub of support.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if there’s something you would like to share or suggest.
Odhrán Allen
Chief Executive Officer
