Thank you to all the members who took part in the BAOT AGM

Members vote in favour of membership fee increase at BAOT AGM

Members have voted in favour of a modest increase to RCOT membership fees at this year’s British Association of Occupational Therapists (BAOT) Annual General Meeting (AGM), helping to support the long-term sustainability of the services, benefits and professional support we provide for members and the policy and advocacy work we do on behalf of our entire profession.

The BAOT AGM took place online on Thursday 25 June, giving members the opportunity to get an overview of our work over the last year, hear the BAOT Council election results, ask questions of their elected Council and vote on the proposed changes to the membership fee for 2026/27.

We want to thank every member who engaged with the process, reviewed all the information, attended the AGM or had their say through their informed vote.

Member participation is central to how we make decisions. This vote was an important opportunity for members to shape RCOT’s future and help ensure we can continue to deliver the services, support and benefits that matter most to members and the wider occupational therapy profession.

What benefits do RCOT members receive?

Membership fee vote

Ahead of the AGM, the Council put forward a proposal for a modest membership fee increase.

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Members voted in favour of the proposal, recognising the need to support longer-term financial sustainability. The increase is only the second in the past eight years and will help us sustain and build the work we do for members and occupational therapy.

We’re funded by our members! Your fees enable us to continue providing professional guidance, practice resources, CPD opportunities, support, representation and advocacy for occupational therapy across the UK – influencing policy and supporting members at every stage of their career.

Some members raised questions about the cost, resource and uncertainty involved in holding an annual vote on fees and welcomed the move towards greater long-term financial planning. Council will thoughtfully consider and discuss any future changes and approach to our Articles of Association, and decisions will be communicated to members in a timely manner.

Following the vote, our membership fees for 2026/27 will be:

Election results

Three Council positions were open for election. Congratulations to our new Council members, who will also become Trustees on the RCOT Board:

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• Robert Workman, Council Member, Wales

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• Dawn Ward, Council Member, Industrial Relations

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• Rosie Hughes, Council Member, Research and Development

A huge thank you to our outgoing Council members for their commitment and contribution:

•    Paul Dunning – Council Member, Wales
•    Cathryn Holding – Council Member, Industrial Relations
•    Anita Atwal – Council Member, Research and Development

How does Council operate?