Supporting the profession I love: A career shaped by connection, community and purpose

A profession that continues to inspire

As part of our ongoing chain reaction series on RCOT Communities, we continue to showcase the knowledge, passion, and perspectives of our volunteers as they explore key topics in occupational therapy. This month, we're delighted to share a thought-provoking article by Lisa Forrest, Network Lead for the Scotland Network. 

Lisa reflects upon her career in occupational therapy, exploring her passion for the profession, the value of community, staying connected and what motivated her to become an RCOT Communities volunteer.

Image

The fascination has never left me

I became an occupational therapist because I was fascinated by the relationship between what people do and how they experience health, wellbeing, identity and belonging. More than twenty years after qualifying, that fascination has never left me.  And if I could choose all over again, I would still choose occupational therapy.

Occupational therapy is a profession that continually inspires me. It is a profession that sees the whole person, values individual experiences and recognises the importance of meaningful occupation in people's lives.

Whether supporting someone to return to valued activities after illness, enabling participation in education or employment or advocating for occupational justice – occupational therapists make a tangible difference every day. It is a privilege to be part of a profession with such a strong commitment to inclusion, empowerment and person-centred practice.

Learning, leadership and community

Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to experience occupational therapy in many different contexts.

From clinical practice to professional leadership, research, international collaboration and higher education, each opportunity has reinforced my belief in the value and impact of occupational therapy.

I have also had the privilege of working alongside passionate occupational therapists who continually challenge, support and inspire one another.

My involvement with RCOT has been a natural extension of this passion. As a long-standing member of RCOT, I have always valued the role the professional body plays in supporting practitioners, promoting the profession and creating opportunities for connection and learning. 

As our healthcare systems face increasing complexity and change, I believe it is more important than ever that occupational therapists have strong professional communities where they can share ideas, seek support and influence the future of the profession.

Why I chose to volunteer

This is what motivated me to volunteer as Scottish Network Lead for RCOT Communities.

I believe that people are more likely to engage, contribute and flourish when they feel welcomed, valued and connected.

My aspiration for the Scottish Network is to create opportunities for occupational therapists to build those connections, share their experiences and learn from one another.

I am particularly passionate about ensuring that all occupational therapists feel they have a place within our professional community, regardless of their role, background, geographical location or stage of career.

Some of the most valuable conversations in occupational therapy happen when diverse perspectives come together. By creating spaces where members can engage meaningfully, we strengthen not only our networks but also the profession as a whole.

I volunteered because I care deeply about occupational therapy and wanted to contribute to a professional community that reflects the values at the heart of our profession.

Looking ahead

As RCOT Communities continues to evolve, I am excited by the opportunity to work alongside colleagues across the UK to develop a connected and collaborative leadership community. By sharing knowledge, supporting one another and working towards common goals, we can amplify the voice and impact of occupational therapy while remaining true to the values that make our profession unique.

Looking back on my career, the constant thread has been a commitment to occupational therapy and the people it serves.

Volunteering as an RCOT Network Lead is one way of giving back to a profession that has shaped both my career and my identity. It is an opportunity to support fellow occupational therapists, champion the profession I am proud to be part of, and help create a vibrant, inclusive and connected community for the future.

I remain as passionate about occupational therapy today as I was when I first entered the profession. Becoming an RCOT volunteer was simply a reflection of that passion and a desire to contribute to the continued growth and success of our professional community.