A tribute to a trailblazer

Dr Elizabeth Casson (1881–1954) is recognised as the founder of occupational therapy in England. A woman of firsts, she was the University of Bristol’s first female medical graduate and later established the Dorset House School of Occupational Therapy – the first of its kind in the UK. Tireless, visionary, and courageous, Dr Casson devoted her career to championing the healing power of occupation and embedding it into healthcare and education. Her determination shaped not just a profession, but a movement that continues to evolve today.

The Feature Zone captures this pioneering spirit. Visitors will find a rich showcase of Dr Casson’s life and work, alongside the story of the Elizabeth Casson Trust, which continues her mission to develop occupational therapy through research, education, and professional support. Archival materials, stories, and interactive displays will bring this heritage to life in new and engaging ways.

 

A space to engage and be inspired

But the Elizabeth Casson Feature Zone is not simply about history – it is about action. True to Dr Casson’s ethos of learning by doing, the Zone will offer hands-on activities for delegates to take part in. Visitors will also have the opportunity to meet some of the Trust’s project partners and discover the exciting initiatives currently being supported across the UK and internationally.

Adding an element of fun and reflection, the Zone will also feature a series of challenges designed by friends of the Trust. Delegates will be invited to accept one of these challenges, record their pledge, and take away a renewed sense of motivation. It’s an experience designed to leave every visitor with “a spring in their step” – embodying the call to #BeMoreElizabeth.

 

Why it matters

In a healthcare landscape facing rapid change and mounting pressures, the values of innovation, courage, and inclusivity championed by Dr Casson feel more relevant than ever. The Feature Zone provides a rare chance to pause and reflect on the profession’s foundations, while also highlighting the diverse opportunities available to today’s occupational therapists.

Through funding programmes, leadership development, and research awards, the Elizabeth Casson Trust continues to empower OTs to take bold steps – whether that means pursuing postgraduate study, representing the profession at board level, or breaking new ground in clinical practice. The Feature Zone will make these opportunities visible, accessible, and actionable.

 

An invitation

The Occupational Therapy Show is all about connection, inspiration, and professional growth. The Elizabeth Casson Feature Zone embodies all of these. It is a place to celebrate achievements, to explore what it means to be an occupational therapist today, and to leave energised to shape tomorrow.

Whether you are new to the profession or a seasoned practitioner, make sure you stop by the Elizabeth Casson Feature Zone this November. Come ready to learn, to connect, and above all, to be inspired.

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

"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.”