1. Home
  2. Latest news
  3. Northern ireland policy and public affairs update – august

Northern Ireland policy and public affairs update

By: Cliona McSherry – Policy and Public Affairs Lead (Northern Ireland) 18 September, 2026 Blog 5 minute read

August – Influencing ahead of the election

Keep up to date with the latest policy news

We're helping to make sure occupational therapy is visible in key decisions across Northern Ireland – and we want you to be part of that momentum too.

Image
illustration of person in a wheelchair

RCOT Northern Ireland Policy Bluesky account

RCOT Northern Ireland Communities discussion

Download the RCOT Communities app

Welcoming our new Minister for Health, Robbie Butler MLA

OTs can support the Minister’s priorities

Following Robbie Butler MLA’s appointment as Health Minister, our Chief Executive, Gary, has written to congratulate him and introduce RCOT.

The letter highlights how occupational therapists can support the Minister’s priorities, particularly around prevention, rehabilitation, tackling health inequalities and strengthening care closer to home.

Opportunities to ensure the profession’s voice is heard

We are engaging with the Minister and his team to raise the profile of occupational therapy and make the case for greater investment in services.

We will continue to look for opportunities to ensure the profession’s voice is heard in discussions about health reform, rehabilitation and neighbourhood health and care.

Get in touch – what does Minister Butler need to know about OT? 

A new Minister means new opportunities to influence the direction of health and social care. Occupational therapy must be recognised as part of the solution to the challenges facing services and communities across Northern Ireland.

What does Minister Butler need to know about occupational therapy? I’d love to hear from you. Email me your thoughts at [email protected].

Other key stories

Connect with other Northern Irish OTs on RCOT Communities 

RCOT Communities is your space to:

  • connect with local professionals
  • share resources, news and opportunities
  • plan influencing work. 

RCOT Northern Ireland Communities discussion

Download the RCOT Communities app

Relevant content