A VARIETY OF OPPORTUNITIES
What your career could look like
What will I be doing?
As an occupational therapist, you can have a profound and positive impact on the lives of people from all walks of life and of all ages. You could be supporting anyone from babies (even before they’re born) through to working-age adults and older members of the community. Put simply, if someone is having difficulties undertaking the activities they need or want to do, occupational therapists work with them to find the best ways forward.
Who will I help?
Children and young people: You could help babies, infants, children and young people to grow, learn, have fun, socialise and play so they can develop, thrive and reach their full potential.
People with physical disabilities: You could help people with physical disabilities to carry out their daily activities and pursue their interests. This could involve making changes in their homes or providing support for those using prosthetics, for example.
People with learning disabilities: You might be supporting people with all types of learning disabilities to help them live as independently as possible.
People with mental health issues: You could help people to develop a personally satisfying routine of everyday activities that creates a sense of purpose and enhances the recovery journey.
Older people: You could have a crucial role to play in enabling older people to retain their independence, remain in their own homes and continue doing the daily activities that maintain their health and wellbeing.
Where could I work?
This is a career that could see you working in a range of interesting and rewarding environments, including hospitals, community health settings, GP surgeries, care homes, prisons, schools, universities, offices and other workplaces, local authorities and charities. It gives you the opportunity to work alongside colleagues from all kinds of other professions, from doctors and nurses to teachers and parole officers. Whatever path you follow, you’ll find opportunities aren’t limited to the UK. Occupational therapists are in demand around the world.
What opportunities are there to progress?
As an occupational therapist, there are countless career paths you can take. You could move into research or into an academic role, for example, helping the next generation of occupational therapists to get off to a great start. Or you might decide to open your own practice and work for yourself.
What could I earn?
The average starting salary for an HCPC-registered occupational therapist working in the UK is around £20,000. More experienced occupational therapists can earn around £39,000, and consultant therapists can earn up to £79,000. The potential to run your own business in occupational therapy opens the door to even higher earnings – your wage will be in your own hands.
