The Elizabeth Casson Feature Zone at the Occupational Therapy Show 2025

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A New Highlight in Occupational Therapy Education and Inspiration

The Occupational Therapy Show 2025 is proud to announce a new partnership with the Elizabeth Casson Trust, bringing delegates the inspiring Elizabeth Casson Feature Zone.

This dedicated space will celebrate the life and legacy of Dr Elizabeth Casson, recognised as the founder of occupational therapy in England, while also showcasing the Trust’s ongoing work to advance occupational therapy through research, funding, and professional development opportunities.

The Elizabeth Casson Feature Zone will be one of the most exciting new features at this year’s show – a must-visit for anyone passionate about the profession, its history, and its future

Who Was Dr Elizabeth Casson?

Dr Elizabeth Casson (1881–1954) was a pioneer of occupational therapy in the UK. She became the first woman to earn a medical degree from the University of Bristol and went on to establish the Dorset House School of Occupational Therapy – the first school of its kind in the country.

Driven by her belief in the healing power of occupation, Casson’s courage, innovation, and determination transformed healthcare and created a profession that continues to change lives worldwide.

What Visitors Can Expect in the Elizabeth Casson Feature Zone

Created through the partnership between the Occupational Therapy Show and the Elizabeth Casson Trust, this feature zone will provide a unique mix of history, inspiration, and hands-on learning.

Here’s what delegates can look forward to:

  • Explore the history of occupational therapy – learn about Dr Casson’s groundbreaking achievements and her role in shaping the profession.
  • Interactive, hands-on activities – experience the spirit of “learning by doing,” central to occupational therapy practice.
  • Meet Elizabeth Casson Trust partners – connect with organisations and individuals supported by the Trust, and discover innovative projects happening across the UK and internationally.
  • Take on a challenge – join in with inspiring challenges created by friends of the Trust, capture your pledge, and leave motivated to make change.
Young Elizabeth

Why the Elizabeth Casson Zone Matters

The Elizabeth Casson Feature Zone is more than just an exhibition space. It is a hub for reflection, connection, and inspiration.

Visitors will:

  • Gain a deeper understanding of the history of occupational therapy.
  • Explore the Elizabeth Casson Trust’s professional development and funding opportunities.
  • Discover how the Trust supports occupational therapists to develop leadership skills, pursue research, and access further education.
  • Leave energised to embrace the call to #BeMoreElizabeth – to be bold, courageous, and ready to shape the future of the profession.

Dee Christie OBE, Chair of Trustees, Elizabeth Casson Trust, comments that, ECT Chair

"The Trust is delighted to partner with CloserStill Media, the organiser of the Occupational Therapy Show, to bring the Elizabeth Casson Feature Zone to life at this year's OT Show. It's a unique opportunity to celebrate Elizabeth Casson's life and legacy, highlight how the charity she created continues to further our profession and showcase what occupational therapists are achieving with the support the Trust provides. So come and visit us at the Zone - we hope you'll be inspired to "BeMoreElizabeth" yourselves!"

Matt Govett, Event Director, the Occupational Therapy Show, added that, 

“We are thrilled to be working with the Elizabeth Casson Trust to bring this Feature Zone to life. It’s not only a chance to celebrate the incredible legacy of Dr Elizabeth Casson, but also an opportunity for today’s occupational therapists to see how her pioneering spirit is being carried forward. We believe this will be one of the most inspiring and talked-about areas of the show.” 

Don’t Miss This Exclusive Feature

Whether you are an experienced occupational therapist, a newly qualified practitioner, or studying, the Elizabeth Casson Feature Zone at the Occupational Therapy Show 2025 will offer something to inspire you.

Make sure to visit the Elizabeth Casson Feature Zone this November – a collaboration between the Occupational Therapy Show and the Elizabeth Casson Trust – and discover how history, innovation, and professional growth come together.

About the Elizabeth Casson Trust

The Elizabeth Casson Trust is a UK charity dedicated to advancing the profession of occupational therapy. Through funding, research awards, leadership programmes, and mentoring opportunities, the Trust helps occupational therapists build their skills, confidence, and impact.

Opportunities include:

  • Funding for postgraduate study (Master’s and Doctoral levels).
  • Leadership and mentoring programmes to prepare OTs for senior roles.
  • Research awards ranging from £500 to £100,000.
  • International scholarships to share learning globally.

Learn more about the Trust’s funding and development opportunities: Elizabeth Casson Trust

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