Independent Practice at RCOT

You do not need HCPC registration to own an independent practice. However, HCPC registration is necessary to use the protected title of ‘occupational therapist’ in the UK. Occupational therapists must meet professional standards and CPD requirements. 

If you are working independently, including as a sole trader, associate, or through your own limited company, you may benefit from the self-employed membership category. 

This category applies only where you are fully self-employed. If you combine independent work with employed roles, full professional membership would be more appropriate. If you are unsure which category applies to you, you can review the options or contact RCOT for advice. 

HCPC requires occupational therapists to have appropriate professional indemnity insurance for your work. RCOT membership includes access to insurance, and for guidance on what is covered watch our webinar recordings. 

Yes, many occupational therapists combine roles. You must ensure your work is clearly separated and that you meet employer and professional requirements. 

You are responsible for setting up your practice safely. This may include contracts, complaints processes, data protection, and record-keeping. RCOT provides guidance and signposting (for members-only) in RCOT Communities Independent Practice Professional Network Resources, but you remain responsible for your own compliance.

HCPC does not explicitly require occupational therapists to have supervision. Nonetheless, supervision is often the expected way to achieve safe, effective practice as required by regulations. Many independent practitioners arrange peer or external supervision.   

The directory is a public facing tool that enables the public, referrers and other stakeholders to identify independent occupational therapists who are members of RCOT and HCPC registrants.

If you'd like to be added, please send us an email at [email protected].