Global Perspective: How would you describe the current state of occupational therapy, and what role does the ECT play in shaping its future?

"That’s a big question! The answer is likely to be different depending on where you live in the world, but there is no doubt that wherever you live taking opportunities and promoting the profession is vital. The Elizabeth Casson Trust is supporting the future of occupational therapy in East African countries through our International Development Award. This allows OTs who qualified with a diploma to gain a BSc and so go on to support students, become educators and grasp new opportunities."

What are you looking forward to most at this year's Occupational Therapy Show.

"Networking! With OTs and other exhibitors to share the work and vision of the Trust and explore creative partnerships and new relationships along the way."

What do you hope to take away from the show yourself?

"The real life stories of occupational therapists! There is nothing like talking to OT’s about their everyday work so that the Trust has a realistic view about their needs. This helps us to ensure we can continue furthering the profession in the future by offering funding and personal development opportunities that are relevant and in demand."

What are the key goals of the ECT Feature Zone’ at this year’s OT Show?

"To share the life and legacy of Dr Elizabeth Casson, the profession’s founder in this country, and the work of the Trust now. Elizabeth’s vision is still clear in all that the Trust does to further occupational therapy, and we want to share that vision and encourage OTs to #BeMoreElizabeth in their everyday lives and practice."

What would you like every occupational therapist here at the OT Show to take away from the ECT Feature Zone vision?

"That all OTs can contribute to Elizabeth’s vision to further the profession. Each step that you take in your career, no matter how big or small, will support your development and that in turn furthers occupational therapy and what we do for the people who use occupational therapy services."

How can OTs get more involved with the ECT’s work?

"The trust wants occupational therapists to

• Think ‘occupation’ always
• Invest in their development and take advantage of our diverse funding opportunities
• Share the knowledge, skills and experience gained with others
• Become a mentor with the trust
• Become a Trustee or Board member – with the Trust or other Charities and organisations so we can share our unique perspective with others at the highest levels.
• Support the Trust by helping to raise our profile
• Embody the pioneering spirit of our founder and #BeMoreElizabeth in everything you do."

Future Outlook: What excites you most about the future of occupational therapy?

"That the future of occupational therapy is bright but does depend on the continuous development of therapists who are fulfilled, engaged, confident and skilled. Our trustees know that year on year more occupational therapists are seeking support from the Trust because of our collective commitment to ‘further’ the profession. In the end, every OT wants to offer the very best of themselves and their services to the people they work with, and we want to support as many occupational therapists as we can to do just that."