Increasing the number of occupational therapists working in councils would help meet government health goals, a new report by the LGA says.
Co-produced with the Royal College of Occupational Therapists and the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services, the report sets out how occupational therapists (OTs) contribute to faster hospital discharges, reduce avoidable admissions, support people with health conditions into work, and adapt homes to enable independent living.
Their work is key to improving population health, reducing inequalities, and easing pressure on the NHS, according to ‘Occupational therapists in councils: unlocking capacity and driving change’ (see www.local.gov.uk/publications).
However, despite their importance, only 7 per cent of OTs currently work in local government – a figure that has remained stagnant since 2020.
Adding to the challenge, councils face significant challenges in recruiting and retaining OTs because of financial constraints and disparities in pay and conditions compared with the NHS.
The LGA is calling for pay parity, investment in prevention, and dedicated funding to grow the OT workforce.
The report calls for the Government to invest in OTs as a core part of creating a sustainable, integrated health and care system that helps people live well at home for longer.
Cllr David Fothergill, Chairman of the LGA’s Community Wellbeing Board, said: “Occupational therapists help people live the lives they want, but too many are missing out because councils can’t afford to recruit and keep them.”