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HCPC, CPD and Registration: Full Grab Chat – 1st October 2013

This was special extra chat, held with The Health and Care Professions Council and provided the opportunity for occupational therapists to discuss registration and CPD. Many thanks to The HCPC for facilitating this discussion and to all participants.

 

217,679 Impressions

199 Tweets

23 Participants

 

 

GillyGorry
who’s online for tonights #otalk with @the_hcpc ?

Helen_otuk
Me just brewing up a coffee RT @GillyGorry: who’s online for tonights #otalk with @the_hcpc ?

GillyGorry
RT @BAOTCOT: The story so far from the #askHCPC CPD discussion – I will update further after #OTalk tonight! http://t.co/CdyIhkxY3C

GillyGorry
RT @The_HCPC@Helen_otuk thanks so much for contributing in the discussion Helen, see you online again this evening #otalk #askhcpc

CPDonline
Looking forward to tonights #OTalk lots of CPD discussions hopefully

BoothRach
I’m here, got my brother visiting and just finishing the takeaway I ‘prepared’ then I’ll be joining in #otalk @The_HCPC

kirstyes
@GillyGorry @The_HCPC Not yet but hope to be shortly #otalk

The_HCPC
Send through your questions OT’s on CPD #OTalk

CharOTReilly
@GillyGorry @The_HCPC I’m online for #otalk tonight

Catherine_OT
RT @OTalk_Occhat: Join a special #otalk in approx 40 mins with @the_hcpc talking about maintaining your registration and CPD followed by jo…

OTSM2011
#otalk @The_HCPC I’m here following along. Sorry I missed lunch time event with @BAOTCOT

GillyGorry
@StudentOT @The_HCPC @SalfordUni excelllent so glad you could join us #otalk

GillyGorry
@CharOTReilly @The_HCPC yay welcome #otalk

GillyGorry
Just to remind all those joining #otalk to adhere to code of ethics and professional conduct

kirstyes
@The_HCPC I’ve asked this question offline but personally I’m really keen to know when we might be able to share eprofiles for audit #otalk

GillyGorry
Does anyone have any questions for @The_HCPC tonight #otalk

The_HCPC
Has anyone been selected for audit this renewal period? #OTalk #askhcpc

BoothRach
How would the @The_HCPC suggest we best record our joining in online discussions like #otalk within our #cPD?

GillyGorry
http://t.co/yjHcv4SMSZ @The_HCPC Blog post for tonights #otalk

kirstyes
@The_HCPC I’m very glad that we don’t have a points based CPD system but that focus on benefitting service users/improving quality #otalk

The_HCPC
@kirstyes as in sharing your own profiles with colleagues? #otalk #askhcpc

CharOTReilly
@BoothRach @The_HCPC great question! #otalk

GillyGorry
@The_HCPC how can OTs maintain their registration in role emerging and non traditional settings? #otalk

GillyGorry
RT @kirstyes@The_HCPC I’m very glad that we don’t have a points based CPD system but that focus on benefitting service users/improving qu…

kirstyes
@The_HCPC No, as in rather than e-mailing audit paperwork being able to put together an ePortfolio/Profile to share with yourselves. #otalk

The_HCPC
@BoothRach Storyboard it through Storify & either highlight where you joined in or address it in your opening statement #otalk #askhcpc

OTSM2011
RT @kirstyes@The_HCPC I’m very glad that we don’t have a points based CPD system but that focus on benefitting service users/improving qu…

kirstyes
RT @BoothRach: How would the @The_HCPC suggest we best record our joining in online discussions like #otalk within our #cPD?

kirstyes
RT @GillyGorry@The_HCPC how can OTs maintain their registration in role emerging and non traditional settings? #otalk

GillyGorry
@OTAshleyP lurking is also great #otalk

The_HCPC
@kirstyes happy to hear – it is all about personal reflection & how your CPD benefits service users #otalk #askhcpc

GillyGorry
RT @The_HCPC@BoothRach Storyboard it through Storify & either highlight where you joined in or address it in your opening statement #otal

BoothRach
RT @The_HCPC@BoothRach Storyboard it through Storify & either highlight where you joined in or address it in your opening statement #otal

kirstyes
@GillyGorry @The_HCPC Excellent question. Also in education and managerial roles.Some people surprised don’t have to work clinically #otalk

GillyGorry
RT @kirstyes@The_HCPC No, as in rather than e-mailing audit paperwork being able to put together an ePortfolio/Profile to share with your…

Helen_otuk
Could also use a reflective approach to incorporating on-line discussions into own practice? #OTalk

ElVeasey
RT @BAOTCOT: There will then be a special CPD #OTalk from 7pm tomorrow, followed by #OTalk journal club. Don’t miss it!

GillyGorry
@kirstyes @The_HCPC yes it can be difficult if no clinical element. #otalk

GillyGorry
RT @Helen_otuk: Could also use a reflective approach to incorporating on-line discussions into own practice? #OTalk

The_HCPC
@GillyGorry look at our standards & address your learning through these, http://t.co/pRSvSQOrVD #otalk #askhcpc

GillyGorry
RT @BoothRach: How would the @The_HCPC suggest we best record our joining in online discussions like #otalk within our #cPD?

CharOTReilly
@kirstyes @GillyGorry @The_HCPC I feel it’s really important to stay clinical (even in part) for #CPD #PD #EBP & 4 SU benefit #otalk

GillyGorry
@The_HCPC @BoothRach thats a really good idea! #otalk

BoothRach
What would be a good balances of evidence? What variations of evidence is expected? #otalk @The_HCPC

GillyGorry
RT @The_HCPC@GillyGorry look at our standards & address your learning through these, http://t.co/pRSvSQOrVD #otalk #askhcpc

The_HCPC
@kirstyes @GillyGorry exactly it can even be learning about new equipment #otalk #askhcpc

GillyGorry
@CharOTReilly @kirstyes @The_HCPC I agree. But not everyone will have it in their role #otalk

kirstyes
@CharOTReilly @GillyGorry @The_HCPC I’m not so sure. I think it’s about remaining in contact with practice, practice issues etc #otalk

BoothRach
@GillyGorry @The_HCPC True not used Storify but will give it a go #otalk

CharOTReilly
@GillyGorry @kirstyes @The_HCPC that’s the trouble isn’t it, need to find the right balance #otalk

GillyGorry
@The_HCPC what kind of free activities on and offline can OTs do to maintain CPD ? #otalk

Helen_otuk
I love that the non-clinical aspects of my job are as important for my CPD as the clinical aspects. #OTalk everything I do is related.

OTSM2011
@BoothRach @GillyGorry @The_HCPC I learnt how to use Storify last week for #otalk it is great tool and can link to lots of SM sites

BoothRach
RT @GillyGorry@The_HCPC what kind of free activities on and offline can OTs do to maintain CPD ? #otalk

GillyGorry
@BoothRach @The_HCPC I have used storify with @Helen_otuk Very user friendly #otalk can keep private too. good digital curation tool

CharOTReilly
@kirstyes @GillyGorry @The_HCPC that’s very true, just healthcare changes so rapidly, difficult to maintain skills if not practicing #otalk

GillyGorry
RT @Helen_otuk: I love that the non-clinical aspects of my job are as important for my CPD as the clinical aspects. #OTalk everything I do …

BoothRach
RT @The_HCPC@GillyGorry look at our standards & address your learning through these, http://t.co/pRSvSQOrVD #otalk #askhcpc

GillyGorry
@CharOTReilly @kirstyes @The_HCPC yes and a good balance is possible. #otalk

Helen_otuk
@CharOTReilly yes in a way, but many skills are needed to ‘run a system’ not all clinical. #OTalk

The_HCPC
@kirstyes @CharOTReilly @GillyGorry this is exactly it #otalk #askhcpc

Helen_otuk
Totally agree RT @kirstyes: I’m not so sure. I think it’s about remaining in contact with practice, practice issues etc #otalk

GillyGorry
RT @kirstyes@CharOTReilly @GillyGorry @The_HCPC I’m not so sure. I think it’s about remaining in contact with practice, practice issues e…

GillyGorry
@kirstyes @CharOTReilly @The_HCPC perfectly explained! exactly right #otalk

CharOTReilly
@Helen_otuk of course! I feel the clinical skills are 1 of many OTs need. Need 2 show evidence of practicing all #otalk #clinical #comm #man

gillyflower78
RT @BoothRach: How would the @The_HCPC suggest we best record our joining in online discussions like #otalk within our #cPD?

BrightonDth
RT @The_HCPC: Send through your questions OT’s on CPD #OTalk

GillyGorry
@The_HCPC #otalk start our journal club tonight. would this be a good example of free online cpd? any tips for how to record it for cpd?

CharOTReilly
RT @GillyGorry@CharOTReilly @kirstyes @The_HCPC yes and a good balance is possible. #otalk

CharOTReilly
RT @Helen_otuk: I love that the non-clinical aspects of my job are as important for my CPD as the clinical aspects. #OTalk everything I do …

NatalieLou28
RT @CharOTReilly@kirstyes @GillyGorry @The_HCPC that’s very true, just healthcare changes so rapidly, difficult to maintain skills if not…

BoothRach
How is @The_HCPC working to support #ots meeting their #cpd#otalk

Richardsblister
Evening all, silly me didnt sign in…but have now #otalk

GillyGorry
@OTSM2011 @BoothRach @The_HCPC yes storify, scoop it, paper li learnist and pinterest are also good digital curation tools #otalk

GillyGorry
@Richardsblister welcome 🙂 #otalk

gillyflower78
@The_HCPC @GillyGorry I’m starting to work on this by organising my student CPD using the TRAMm model which addresses HCPC standards #otalk

gillyflower78
RT @GillyGorry@The_HCPC how can OTs maintain their registration in role emerging and non traditional settings? #otalk

GillyGorry
RT @BoothRach: How is @The_HCPC working to support #ots meeting their #cpd#otalk

Richardsblister
@GillyGorry thanks #otalk

GillyGorry
@BoothRach @The_HCPC excellent question Rachel #otalk

GillyGorry
RT @gillyflower78@The_HCPC @GillyGorry I’m starting to work on this by organising my student CPD using the TRAMm model which addresses HC…

GillyGorry
@gillyflower78 @The_HCPC I am planning on incorporating tramm also. Setting it up as an eportfolio #otalk

Richardsblister
@gillyflower78 @GillyGorry @The_HCPC I would say the same as traditional settings, lots of research via internet and networking #otalk

Helen_otuk
@BoothRach @The_HCPC it was very positive to her about the work that the HCPC do with employers to promote the importance of CPD #OTalk

OTSM2011
@gillyflower78 @The_HCPC @GillyGorry #otalk for those less happy to use SM tools to record CPD can us TRAMm Tracker and Trail

gillyflower78
@GillyGorry @The_HCPC Ah, great idea to set it up as an eportfolio…. might consider doing the same. Will look out for your tips! #otalk

The_HCPC
@Richardsblister @gillyflower78 @GillyGorry this is all valid evidence, just make sure you tie it back to our standards and reflect #otalk

TRAMMCPD
@GillyGorry @gillyflower78 @The_HCPC #otalk We have found that the people who use it most successfully use it online

BoothRach
RT @Richardsblister@gillyflower78 @GillyGorry @The_HCPC I would say the same as traditional settings, lots of research via internet and n…

GillyGorry
@TherapistOT @The_HCPC @kirstyes @CharOTReilly Ilove being creative with cpd fave is my comic reflections blog #otalk http://t.co/diSiC2CmGz

Richardsblister
I have forwarded the Tramm to the student I am currently educating, capture them young on the cpd trail i say #otalk

BoothRach
RT @The_HCPC@Richardsblister @gillyflower78 @GillyGorry this is all valid evidence, just make sure you tie it back to our standards and r…

The_HCPC
@gillyflower78 @GillyGorry excellent, best to get into the habit now so if you do get selected you are already well practised #otalk

gillyflower78
@ElVeasey @The_HCPC @GillyGorry I’m doing a Prezi on it Thurs afternoon in TAP – its a model to help you structure your CPD. FAB! #otalk

Helen_otuk
I am using my own digital tool not SocMed basd, but I can then extract information to excel / word etc for audit if required #OTalk

TRAMMCPD
@GillyGorry @gillyflower78 @The_HCPC #otalk and complete it regularly as mentioned last week as a CPD ‘nagger’!

The_HCPC
RT @Richardsblister: I have forwarded the Tramm to the student I am currently educating, capture them young on the cpd trail i say #otalk

jacquelyn_e
RT @GillyGorry@TherapistOT @The_HCPC @kirstyes @CharOTReilly Ilove being creative with cpd fave is my comic reflections blog #otalk http:…

GillyGorry
@jacquelyn_e @gillyflower78 @The_HCPC can be. I use my blogs for CPD various sites available. can have secret pages private blog etc #otalk

The_HCPC
@TRAMMCPD @GillyGorry @gillyflower78 excellent advice #otalk

GillyGorry
RT @TRAMMCPD@GillyGorry @gillyflower78 @The_HCPC #otalk We have found that the people who use it most successfully use it online

TherapistOT
RT @Helen_otuk: I love that the non-clinical aspects of my job are as important for my CPD as the clinical aspects. #OTalk everything I do …

Helen_otuk
Very important point! RT @The_HCPC: this is all valid evidence, just make sure you tie it back to our standards and reflect #otalk

GillyGorry
RT @The_HCPC@Richardsblister @gillyflower78 @GillyGorry this is all valid evidence, just make sure you tie it back to our standards and r…

Richardsblister
@Helen_otuk hopefully you will share? I am so excited that i want to prepare as much as poss before being called #otalk

gillyflower78
RT @The_HCPC@gillyflower78 @GillyGorry excellent, best to get into the habit now so if you do get selected you are already well practised…

The_HCPC
We aren’t here to be punitive we want to hear how you think CPD helps you as a professional & how service users benefit #OTalk

GillyGorry
@gillyflower78 @The_HCPC I will look out for your tips too! #doingittogether #otalk

OTSM2011
RT @Helen_otuk: Very important point! RT @The_HCPC: this is all valid evidence, just make sure you tie it back to our standards and reflect…

gillyflower78
@TRAMMCPD @GillyGorry @The_HCPC Ha, love that CPD nagger has stuck 😉 TRAMm Tracker is excellent for helping you stay up to date #otalk

GillyGorry
RT @TRAMMCPD@GillyGorry @gillyflower78 @The_HCPC #otalk and complete it regularly as mentioned last week as a CPD ‘nagger’!

Richardsblister
@The_HCPC my clients are so used to me that they now say “are you going to reflect on that” bless them 🙂 #otalk

TherapistOT
@Helen_otuk everything is connected 🙂 it all is involved in my reasoning & builds creativity #otalk

Helen_otuk
I do not see audit as the reason for CPD. I structure my recording to aid if I am called. but Life Long Learning is my goal. #OTalk

GillyGorry
@OTwilsher @kirstyes @CharOTReilly @The_HCPC you can be doing cpd as a student. Reflection, courses, reading, online activities #otalk

The_HCPC
@Richardsblister @Helen_otuk keep in mind you won’t be selected for two years after you join the Register #otalk

Richardsblister
@Helen_otuk totally agree I did cpd even before i was qualified it seemed the natural thing to do #otalk

BoothRach
RT @Helen_otuk: I do not see audit as the reason for CPD. I structure my recording to aid if I am called. but Life Long Learning is my goal…

CharOTReilly
RT @TherapistOT@Helen_otuk everything is connected 🙂 it all is involved in my reasoning & builds creativity #otalk

NaomiMcVey
RT @The_HCPC: We aren’t here to be punitive we want to hear how you think CPD helps you as a professional & how service users benefit #OTalk

BoothRach
RT @GillyGorry@OTwilsher @kirstyes @CharOTReilly @The_HCPC you can be doing cpd as a student. Reflection, courses, reading, online activ…

Richardsblister
as an OT tech we were encouraged to do cpd, and now I encourage my techs have been qualified 3 yrs now #otalk

kirstyes
RT @Helen_otuk: I do not see audit as the reason for CPD. I structure my recording to aid if I am called. but Life Long Learning is my goal…

kirstyes
@Helen_otuk and doing the best by our clients #otalk

The_HCPC
@Richardsblister terrific practise! they may even help you with it in how they discuss practise with you #otalk

Helen_otuk
@The_HCPC oh I can so be selected, I was around before the HCP/HCPC! #OTalk

BoothRach
RT @Richardsblister: as an OT tech we were encouraged to do cpd, and now I encourage my techs have been qualified 3 yrs now #otalk

GillyGorry
@OTwilsher @The_HCPC yes me too! #otalk

gillyflower78
RT @Richardsblister: I have forwarded the Tramm to the student I am currently educating, capture them young on the cpd trail i say #otalk

TRAMMCPD
@The_HCPC @Richardsblister @Helen_otuk #otalk but its a gr8t habit 2 get into even if u won’t be called for a while Start as you mean to go

LindaOTUK
RT @Helen_otuk: I do not see audit as the reason for CPD. I structure my recording to aid if I am called. but Life Long Learning is my goal…

GillyGorry
RT @The_HCPC@gillyflower78 @GillyGorry excellent, best to get into the habit now so if you do get selected you are already well practised…

Richardsblister
@Helen_otuk @The_HCPC glad i am not the oldest in the room? or…maybe I am? was 50 when i qualified, but hey its only a number #otalk

The_HCPC
RT @TRAMMCPD@The_HCPC @Richardsblister @Helen_otuk #otalk but its a gr8t habit 2 get into even if u won’t be called for a while Start as …

Richardsblister
@TRAMMCPD @The_HCPC @Helen_otuk absolutely, it becomes a habit, hence my clients over hearing “i think i will reflect on that” #otalk

GillyGorry
RT @Richardsblister@Helen_otuk @The_HCPC glad i am not the oldest in the room? or…maybe I am? was 50 when i qualified, but hey its onl…

Richardsblister
we also encourage staff who receive thank you cards to lodge them into their cpd file, and reflect why they got the thank you #otalk

The_HCPC
@Richardsblister @Helen_otuk it is, and you sound like you really care about the profession #otalk

GillyGorry
RT @Helen_otuk: I do not see audit as the reason for CPD. I structure my recording to aid if I am called. but Life Long Learning is my goal…

GillyGorry
RT @TherapistOT@Helen_otuk everything is connected 🙂 it all is involved in my reasoning & builds creativity #otalk

Helen_otuk
oh yes, I cover all aspectsme / my practice / client / service / policy RT @kirstyes@Helen_otuk and doing the best by our clients #otalk

OTSM2011
RT @Richardsblister: we also encourage staff who receive thank you cards to lodge them into their cpd file, and reflect why they got the th…

The_HCPC
RT @Helen_otuk: oh yes, I cover all aspectsme / my practice / client / service / policy RT @kirstyes@Helen_otuk and doing the best by our…

Richardsblister
@The_HCPC @Helen_otuk You could say, those that know me know I am passionate about OT, its a standing joke world dominance 4 OT #otalk

jacquelyn_e
RT @Helen_otuk: oh yes, I cover all aspectsme / my practice / client / service / policy RT @kirstyes@Helen_otuk and doing the best by our…

GillyGorry
@The_HCPC excellent point. I enjoy cpd and want to do it to be a better OT for the benefit of my service users. #otalk

Richardsblister
To be this passionate you have to question yourself all the time, work out why things work or dont work in your line of care #otalk

TRAMMCPD
@The_HCPC #otalk CPD helps me to make the most of my career and to be more strategic. Makes me stop and think

GillyGorry
@OTwilsher I have tons and do tons of CPD.. but needed a away to organise. tramm seems a good fit for me #otalk

The_HCPC
@GillyGorry we all do CPD it is just a matter of recognising everything we do and keeping a log of it #otalk

Richardsblister
@GillyGorry @OTwilsher that is exactly why I got interested in Tramm, I have bits here and there, just need to sort it into logic #otalk

GillyGorry
RT @The_HCPC@GillyGorry we all do CPD it is just a matter of recognising everything we do and keeping a log of it #otalk

BoothRach
RT @The_HCPC@GillyGorry we all do CPD it is just a matter of recognising everything we do and keeping a log of it #otalk

Helen_otuk
Important point. RT @The_HCPC: we all do CPD it is just a matter of recognising everything we do and keeping a log of it #otalk

The_HCPC
RT @TRAMMCPD@The_HCPC #otalk CPD helps me to make the most of my career and to be more strategic. Makes me stop and think

TherapistOT
RT @The_HCPC@GillyGorry we all do CPD it is just a matter of recognising everything we do and keeping a log of it #otalk

TRAMMCPD
@The_HCPC @GillyGorry #otalk which is what TRAMm is designed to help with

GillyGorry
@The_HCPC yes very well put. I find somepeople don’t recognise what they do as cpd.. organising and recognising is key #otalk

Richardsblister
@The_HCPC @TRAMMCPD @The_HCPC I agree, even a wee chat with a colleague we lodge as informal supervision #otalk

GillyGorry
RT @Richardsblister@GillyGorry @OTwilsher that is exactly why I got interested in Tramm, I have bits here and there, just need to sort i…

gillyflower78
RT @The_HCPC@GillyGorry we all do CPD it is just a matter of recognising everything we do and keeping a log of it #otalk

gillyflower78
RT @GillyGorry@The_HCPC yes very well put. I find somepeople don’t recognise what they do as cpd.. organising and recognising is key #ota

OTwilsher
@GillyGorry brilliant to hear, I hope it works as well for me as it does seem a good foundation for CPD #otalk

GillyGorry
RT @Richardsblister: To be this passionate you have to question yourself all the time, work out why things work or dont work in your line o…

BoothRach
Hat can I do to help myself Recognise my everyday learning? #otalk @The_HCPC

Richardsblister
<<~~hopes Tramm leaves its web address for all #otalk

The_HCPC
RT @Richardsblister@The_HCPC @TRAMMCPD @The_HCPC I agree, even a wee chat with a colleague we lodge as informal supervision #otalk

GillyGorry
RT @BoothRach: Hat can I do to help myself Recognise my everyday learning? #otalk @The_HCPC

Helen_otuk
To me I differentiate if something is CPD by Did I learn / reinforce / develop. Evaluate to proceed or not etc? Who benefits? #OTalk

gillyflower78
RT @Richardsblister@GillyGorry @OTwilsher that is exactly why I got interested in Tramm, I have bits here and there, just need to sort i…

GillyGorry
@BoothRach @The_HCPC good question. I try to think about what I learned that day. New service, new equipment,reflect on a situation, #otalk

jacquelyn_e
RT @Helen_otuk: To me I differentiate if something is CPD by Did I learn / reinforce / develop. Evaluate to proceed or not etc? Who benefit…

The_HCPC
@BoothRach be confident, log everything in a diary, write a short entry about what you learnt, you will realise you learn & do a lot #otalk

Richardsblister
I agree with Helen, if you find yourself walking away asking yourself a question, its probably a cpd moment #otalk

The_HCPC
RT @Helen_otuk: To me I differentiate if something is CPD by Did I learn / reinforce / develop. Evaluate to proceed or not etc? Who benefit…

GillyGorry
RT @Helen_otuk: To me I differentiate if something is CPD by Did I learn / reinforce / develop. Evaluate to proceed or not etc? Who benefit…

kirstyes
RT @Helen_otuk: Important point. RT @The_HCPC: we all do CPD it is just a matter of recognising everything we do and keeping a log of it #…

jacquelyn_e
RT @GillyGorry@BoothRach @The_HCPC good question. I try to think about what I learned that day. New service, new equipment,reflect on a …

TherapistOT
Revealing our ongoing CPD engagement can be done alone but it’s really enjoyable to think collectively & acknowledge new insights #otalk

GillyGorry
RT @The_HCPC@BoothRach be confident, log everything in a diary, write a short entry about what you learnt, you will realise you learn & d…

CharOTReilly
@BoothRach @The_HCPC I have recently been doing a daily reflective log and this has helped me to recognise everyday learning #otalk

BoothRach
RT @The_HCPC@BoothRach be confident, log everything in a diary, write a short entry about what you learnt, you will realise you learn & d…

Richardsblister
Encourage others, so if you are communicating, do mention, “why not put that into your cpd file” and help them reflect why #otalk

The_HCPC
RT @CharOTReilly@BoothRach @The_HCPC I have recently been doing a daily reflective log and this has helped me to recognise everyday learn…

The_HCPC
RT @Richardsblister: Encourage others, so if you are communicating, do mention, “why not put that into your cpd file” and help them reflect…

GillyGorry
RT @TherapistOT: Revealing our ongoing CPD engagement can be done alone but it’s really enjoyable to think collectively & acknowledge new i…

TRAMMCPD
RT @Richardsblister: Encourage others, so if you are communicating, do mention, “why not put that into your cpd file” and help them reflect…

Helen_otuk
@Richardsblister and if you are not asking yourself a question then maybe you need to reflect on why not? Reinforcement is good too. #OTalk

jacquelyn_e
RT @TherapistOT: Revealing our ongoing CPD engagement can be done alone but it’s really enjoyable to think collectively & acknowledge new i…

jacquelyn_e
RT @The_HCPC@BoothRach be confident, log everything in a diary, write a short entry about what you learnt, you will realise you learn & d…

TherapistOT
I use videodiary :painful at 1st but fast & very powerful especially when you see yourself reflecting 10years later:context revealed #otalk

Richardsblister
@Helen_otuk absolutely! #otalk

Helen_otuk
RT @TherapistOT: I use videodiary :painful at 1st but fast & very powerful especially when you see yourself reflecting 10years later:contex…

TRAMMCPD
RT @Helen_otuk@Richardsblister and if you are not asking yourself a question then maybe you need to reflect on why not? Reinforcement is …

kirstyes
@Richardsblister I think my students get fed up of hearing that from me! #otalk

Richardsblister
@kirstyes Same, but I do warn them on their pre placement visit that I push cpd and reflective practice a great deal #otalk

kirstyes
@The_HCPC #otalk – How are creative methods of CPD viewed in the audit – e.g. use of poems, stories, art. It’s something I do and encourage

TherapistOT
In the video diary I see myself differently & can make connections I don’t make when I just write #otalk

kirstyes
RT @Helen_otuk: To me I differentiate if something is CPD by Did I learn / reinforce / develop. Evaluate to proceed or not etc? Who benefit…

GillyGorry
RT @TherapistOT: I use videodiary :painful at 1st but fast & very powerful especially when you see yourself reflecting 10years later:contex…

OTSM2011
@Richardsblister @kirstyes #otalk I learnt the most on a placement where my educator did the same,

GillyGorry
RT @Helen_otuk@Richardsblister and if you are not asking yourself a question then maybe you need to reflect on why not? Reinforcement is …

TherapistOT
RT @kirstyes@The_HCPC #otalk – How are creative methods of CPD viewed in the audit – e.g. use of poems, stories, art. It’s something I do…

Helen_otuk
I used to think I was a CPD bore! But my colleagues described me as a motivator! So keep at it! #OTalk.

GillyGorry
RT @kirstyes@The_HCPC #otalk – How are creative methods of CPD viewed in the audit – e.g. use of poems, stories, art. It’s something I do…

kirstyes
@The_HCPC We use the profile/audit as the basis for our assessments at the unit to prepare people for the future. #otalk

gcarinlevy
RT @GillyGorry@OTwilsher @kirstyes @CharOTReilly @The_HCPC you can be doing cpd as a student. Reflection, courses, reading, online activ…

jacquelyn_e
RT @kirstyes@The_HCPC #otalk – How are creative methods of CPD viewed in the audit – e.g. use of poems, stories, art. It’s something I do…

BoothRach
RT @kirstyes@The_HCPC #otalk – How are creative methods of CPD viewed in the audit – e.g. use of poems, stories, art. It’s something I do…

GillyGorry
@OTwilsher @gillyflower78 @TRAMMCPD yes. But be careful not to oversritcise. be constructive when self evaluating #otalk

Richardsblister
@TherapistOT oh my, seeing myself 10 yrs ago would be quite scary for me (grin) #otalk

JuliaHelenOT
@TherapistOT you’ve inspired me! Anything to cut down time spent typing sounds good to me #otalk

BoothRach
RT @TherapistOT: In the video diary I see myself differently & can make connections I don’t make when I just write #otalk

GillyGorry
Final 5 minutes of #otalk with @The_HCPC any final questions?

gcarinlevy
RT @The_HCPC@GillyGorry we all do CPD it is just a matter of recognising everything we do and keeping a log of it #otalk

BoothRach
@Katebye @CharOTReilly @The_HCPC very much agree #otalk

kirstyes
I always say this but reflect on things that go well too – show @The_HCPC auditors that you know why you get good results too #otalk

TRAMMCPD
@GillyGorry #otalk really useful event and makes @The_HCPC seem more approachable

GillyGorry
RT @TRAMMCPD@GillyGorry #otalk really useful event and makes @The_HCPC seem more approachable

The_HCPC
RT @kirstyes: I always say this but reflect on things that go well too – show @The_HCPC auditors that you know why you get good results too…

BoothRach
RT @TRAMMCPD@GillyGorry #otalk really useful event and makes @The_HCPC seem more approachable

GillyGorry
@TRAMMCPD @The_HCPC I agree! #otalk

Helen_otuk
@GillyGorry #OTalk oh my that has flown by, I also did a storify from todays #askHCPC event more points there too. http://t.co/y1w0DpaDs7

gillyflower78
RT @kirstyes: I always say this but reflect on things that go well too – show @The_HCPC auditors that you know why you get good results too…

CharOTReilly
RT @kirstyes@The_HCPC #otalk – How are creative methods of CPD viewed in the audit – e.g. use of poems, stories, art. It’s something I do…

OTwilsher
@GillyGorry @gillyflower78 @TRAMMCPD as a student this is my downfall I’m good at criticising but not give the credit where its due #otalk

The_HCPC
@TRAMMCPD @GillyGorry glad you found it useful, we certainly did and have really enjoyed chatting to OT’s today #otalk

Richardsblister
Loved this as always, thank you soooo much and dont forget TRAMM post a link for those who havent seen yet #otalk

 Content from Twitter

OTalk

Transcript #OTalk 24th September 2013 – The TRAMm Model (A tool for CPD)

Hi everyone  -hope you enjoyed the TRAMm talk last night, huge thanks to the TRAMm team for agreeing to host. I started to track my CPD Activities from the summer last night and realised why I’m so tired ;o)

You can find the original blog post here.

A link to a storify of the chat here.

And the healthcare hashtags transcript here – also copied below.

 

BAOTCOT
RT @TRAMMCPD: @BAOTCOT @BAOTNYRegion We are hosting #otalk Tuesday 24/9/13. For some background have a look at http://t.co/ILquoHJ7lm

TRAMMCPD
@BAOTCOT @BAOTNYRegion @NW_BAOT@OTalk_Occhat: #OTalk 24th September 2013 – The TRAMm Model (A tool for CPD) http://t.co/RPNtr6J1z4

kirstyes
@Angiecog Hi Angela. Great to see you here. A good hashtag to look out for is #otalk

BAOTNYRegion
RT @TRAMMCPD: @BAOTCOT @BAOTNYRegion @NW_BAOT@OTalk_Occhat: #OTalk 24th September 2013 – The TRAMm Model (A tool for CPD) http://t.co/RPN…

emerging2OT
RT @TRAMMCPD: @BAOTCOT @BAOTNYRegion @NW_BAOT@OTalk_Occhat: #OTalk 24th September 2013 – The TRAMm Model (A tool for CPD) http://t.co/RPN…

pd2ot
@tabbycats4 MT”@OTalk_Occhat: Transcript of @Pd2ot‘s #OTalk “When #OccupationalTherapy Goes Wrong” is now available: http://t.co/WLG5FnZZeK

clissa89
Final #OTuesday in my current post (acute inpatient #mentalhealth). No #OTalk or #GBBO for me tonight, I’m clothes-swapping! #transition

family_success
RT @clissa89: Final #OTuesday in my current post (acute inpatient #mentalhealth). No #OTalk or #GBBO for me tonight, I’m clothes-swapping! …

clissa89
Thought-provoking reading this #OTuesday: http://t.co/MB16OQFX7x responses to last week’s #OTalk from @acarerseyes and @lapsangsusie

Symbolic_Life
RT @clissa89: Thought-provoking reading this #OTuesday: http://t.co/MB16OQFX7x responses to last week’s #OTalk from @acarerseyes and @lapsa

clissa89
“Dear OTs”: #DearMentalHealthProfessionals-style responses to @pd2ot‘s “When #OccupationalTherapy Goes Wrong” #OTalk http://t.co/2Svylv4smM

IamCarrieeeeee
RT @clissa89: “Dear OTs”: #DearMentalHealthProfessionals-style responses to @pd2ot‘s “When #OccupationalTherapy Goes Wrong” #OTalk http://t…

BoothRach
Having just read @TRAMMCPD blog for tonight’s #otalk I’m going to join in tonight #CPD

TRAMMCPD
RT @BoothRach: Having just read @TRAMMCPD blog for tonight’s #otalk I’m going to join in tonight #CPD

OTalk_Occhat
Responses to @Pd2ot‘s #OTalk “When Occupational Therapy Goes Wrong”: http://t.co/Ekq7Ch0B9P

lapsangsusie
RT @clissa89: Thought-provoking reading this #OTuesday: http://t.co/MB16OQFX7x responses to last week’s #OTalk from @acarerseyes and @lapsa

lapsangsusie
So I did some writing last week “@OTalk_Occhat: Responses to @Pd2ot‘s #OTalk “When Occupational Therapy Goes Wrong”: http://t.co/KQpiyOWhaS”

BoothRach
#otalk about #CPD http://t.co/qSNYYePqi9 @MaryBoothOT @studentMHOT @1804lexi @samuel27elliott @OTEmma @twinkle4me @DawnFraser_OT

emerging2OT
RT @OTalk_Occhat: Responses to @Pd2ot‘s #OTalk “When Occupational Therapy Goes Wrong”: http://t.co/Ekq7Ch0B9P

OTalk_Occhat
RT @clissa89: Thought-provoking reading this #OTuesday: http://t.co/MB16OQFX7x responses to last week’s #OTalk from @acarerseyes and @lapsa

emerging2OT
RT @clissa89: Thought-provoking reading this #OTuesday: http://t.co/MB16OQFX7x responses to last week’s #OTalk from @acarerseyes and @lapsa

OTSM2011
RT @BoothRach: Having just read @TRAMMCPD blog for tonight’s #otalk I’m going to join in tonight #CPD

OTalk_Occhat
RT @lapsangsusie: So I did some writing last week “@OTalk_Occhat: Responses to @Pd2ot‘s #OTalk “When Occupational Therapy Goes Wrong”: http…

Saraswati_dee
RT @OTalk_Occhat: Responses to @Pd2ot‘s #OTalk “When Occupational Therapy Goes Wrong”: http://t.co/Ekq7Ch0B9P

OTalk_Occhat
@BillWongOT hi Bill, today’s #OTalk topic is the @TRAMMCPD model #OTuesday

OTalk_Occhat
@BillWongOT hi Bill, today’s #OTalk topic is the @TRAMMCPD model #OTuesday (CS)

SullivanTheresa
#OT6140 When OT Goes Wrong… An #OTalk twitter chat summary.. http://t.co/wceEJj4fXa

SullivanTheresa
#OT6140 RT @OTalk_Occhat 11m Responses to @Pd2ot‘s #OTalk “When Occupational Therapy Goes Wrong”: http://t.co/vFnIW5LNfc

family_success
RT @clissa89: “Dear OTs”: #DearMentalHealthProfessionals-style responses to @pd2ot‘s “When #OccupationalTherapy Goes Wrong” #OTalk http://t…

family_success
RT @OTalk_Occhat: Responses to @Pd2ot‘s #OTalk “When Occupational Therapy Goes Wrong”: http://t.co/Ekq7Ch0B9P

BoothRach
Just settled in to my hotel, and walked round to a place called the waterline, for my tea. All alone in newcastle

kirstyes
RT @OTalk_Occhat: @BillWongOT hi Bill, today’s #OTalk topic is the @TRAMMCPD model #OTuesday (CS)

MaryBoothOT
RT @BoothRach: #otalk about #CPD http://t.co/qSNYYePqi9 @MaryBoothOT @studentMHOT @1804lexi @samuel27elliott @OTEmma @twinkle4me @DawnFrase

TRAMMCPD
Off to make a cuppa ready for #OTalk

OTprocess
RT @clissa89: Thought-provoking reading this #OTuesday: http://t.co/MB16OQFX7x responses to last week’s #OTalk from @acarerseyes and @lapsa

JeSuisLucie
#GBBO set to record, flapjacks in the oven, and cuppa in hand. Ready for #OTalk 🙂

merrolee
#OTalk morning all from NZ

BAOTNYRegion
The world federation of #OT has a twitter account follow them @thewfot #otgeek #otalk

merrolee
#OTalk hello

BoothRach
The world federation of #OT has a twitter account follow them @thewfot #otgeek #otalk

gillyflower78
RT @BoothRach: The world federation of #OT has a twitter account follow them @thewfot #otgeek #otalk

merrolee
#OTalk morning all from New Zealand my tweets slow to appear today!!!

kirstyes
.@merrolee hi great to see you here. We get going in 4 minutes. #otalk

kirstyes
@BoothRach: The world federation of #OT has a twitter account follow them @thewfot #otgeek #otalk” how did I not know this?

OTalk_Occhat
#OTalk on @TRAMMCPD model starts in 3 minutes. http://t.co/vzlsHgT4PK follow link to find out CPD style. I’ll be supporting on @kirstyes

merrolee
RT @kirstyes: .@merrolee hi great to see you here. We get going in 4 minutes. #otalk

BillWongOT
pre-tweeting again for #otalk again today. 😦 Apparently it will be this way until end of 2013 at least. Missing everyone!

kirstyes
RT @OTalk_Occhat: #OTalk on @TRAMMCPD model starts in 3 minutes. http://t.co/vzlsHgT4PK follow link to find out CPD style. I’ll be support…

BillWongOT
One thing I find as a practitioner now, it’s much harder to keep up with CPD. 1/2 #otalk

kirstyes
Evening all – who’s here for #otalk? @TRAMMCPD – I know you have a question to kick things off?

GillyGorry
RT @OTalk_Occhat: #OTalk on @TRAMMCPD model starts in 3 minutes. http://t.co/vzlsHgT4PK follow link to find out CPD style. I’ll be support…

TRAMMCPD
#otalk welcome all. What’s your CPD style?

merrolee
@BillWongOT #OTalk gd point but do reflect on how u define cpd. As new practitioner yr learning curve is huge

eileenhegarty7
I’m here although could be lurking a lot tonight after my second day of new job #otalk

GillyGorry
@merrolee hello 🙂 great to have you 🙂 #otalk

merrolee
@GillyGorry #OTalk for little while.. Have to leave for work soon

BillWongOT
As a new practitioner, I am spending more time prepping for clients I am getting to know than CPD. 2/2 #otalk

GillyGorry
@kirstyes @TRAMMCPD looking forward to tonight. Saw tramm presented at NWBAOT in 2012 like the sound of it #otalk

gillyflower78
@TRAMMCPD Used to be sit-on-the-fence cowboy style. But now I’m in 3rdyr I’ve become pro-active! #loveTRAMm #otalk

eileenhegarty7
Up to now my CPD style has been do a bit of everything – no real plan #otalk

kirstyes
.@TRAMMCPD Think my students (any here?) will laugh when I admit although like to think I’m strategic and planned- bull in china shop #otalk

TRAMMCPD
@gillyflower78 #otalk, that’s great to hear. Are you using the Tracker and Trail as well?

Sasa_Radic
I would like to know more about TRAMm as CPD is new in Croatia #OTalk

Helen_otuk
Hi #otalk trying to follow from phone this eve….

kirstyes
RT @merrolee: @BillWongOT #OTalk gd point but do reflect on how u define cpd. As new practitioner yr learning curve is huge

LAThompsonOT
@clissa89 @acarerseyes @lapsangsusie Valuable to me as a professional! Thanks for sharing #OTalk

GillyGorry
@TRAMMCPD What a good question- a little chaotic with a pinch of creativity and aspiring to be more organised… I do, do lots of it #otalk

kirstyes
@eileenhegarty7 Evening – hope it’s going well #OTalk

Sasa_Radic
@TRAMMCPD @gillyflower78 Traker and trail? #OTalk

kirstyes
RT @gillyflower78: @TRAMMCPD Used to be sit-on-the-fence cowboy style. But now I’m in 3rdyr I’ve become pro-active! #loveTRAMm #otalk

BillWongOT
A good example of what I am talking about- I have not read an #OT journal article since I completed my OTD. #otalk

AnnabelFenn
@TRAMMCPD Evening all – I admit my CPD style is bull in the china shop! #OTalk

kirstyes
@gillyflower78 @TRAMMCPD That’s great to hear – does that mean you’ve found something that works for you? #OTalk

JeSuisLucie
@TRAMMCPD my style is… enthusiastic, but not very well planned. #OTalk

kirstyes
Welcome from Croatia @Sasa_Radic – what are your CPD requirements there? #OTalk

merrolee
#OTalk I’m a little like @kirstyes mostly strategic, sometimes opportunistic. Not easy to be strategic if unaware..

eileenhegarty7
@kirstyes It is – I’m so delighted to be started in my first Ot post #otalk

GillyGorry
@TRAMMCPD @kirstyes @OTTM2009 @debhearle I was really impressed by the concept #otalk

SarahMassey92
Interesting topic on #otalk tonight, as a student I’m always interested in CPD especially as I enter 3rd year.

BillWongOT
Meanwhile, my strategy for CPD has evolved. I used to go to #OT conference based on speakers. #otalk 1/2

Sasa_Radic
#OTalk I was doing CPD since graduation, in the last year following #Otalk realized importance oc strategic planning in CPD

TRAMMCPD
@gillyflower78 #otalk that’s great, do you use a reflective tool as well?

Sasa_Radic
RT @TRAMMCPD: @gillyflower78 #otalk that’s great, do you use a reflective tool as well?

kirstyes
RT @JeSuisLucie: @TRAMMCPD my style is… enthusiastic, but not very well planned. #OTalk

BoothRach
Sorry I’m late but here #otalk

Symbolic_Life
hi everyone sorry im late #otalk

BillWongOT
Now, I am going to #OT conference workshops based on topics of need for my job in pediatrics. #otalk 2/2

kirstyes
@JeSuisLucie @TRAMMCPD Lovethis #otalk.I’d say that was quite accurate for me too.Although I plan but get excited by different opportunities

eileenhegarty7
@GillyGorry @TRAMMCPD @kirstyes Me too. Registration is just coming in here in Ireland and looks like we’ll need a strategic plan #otalk

TRAMMCPD
#otalk the most successful use we have heard of is to keep Tracker as working document and complete as often as possible

kirstyes
@SarahMassey92 Yes great to get a handle on it before you enter practice. #OTalk

GillyGorry
@merrolee @TRAMMCPD @kirstyes @OTTM2009 @debhearle yeah I think the self directed element appealed to me #OTalk

kirstyes
@Sasa_Radic Glad to hear #otalk has helped there.

GillyGorry
RT @TRAMMCPD: #otalk the most successful use we have heard of is to keep Tracker as working document and complete as often as possible

gillyflower78
@TRAMMCPD This works for me, Tracker nags away at my conscience if I don’t update it regularly now! #OTalk

kirstyes
RT @BillWongOT: Now, I am going to #OT conference workshops based on topics of need for my job in pediatrics. #otalk 2/2

gillyflower78
RT @TRAMMCPD: #otalk the most successful use we have heard of is to keep Tracker as working document and complete as often as possible

BillWongOT
That said, I am slowly planning on the certifications I will get for peds- SIPT, NDT, HWT, and feeding/swallowing. #otalk

kirstyes
Another good point @BillWongOT – often CPD requirements are about meeting standards of job and not just about interest. #OTalk

kirstyes
RT @TRAMMCPD: #otalk the most successful use we have heard of is to keep Tracker as working document and complete as often as possible

JeSuisLucie
@TRAMMCPD @kirstyes I really like the sound of this, it appeals to me and my love of lists and spreadsheets!! #OTalk

SarahMassey92
@kirstyes So I hear. Trying to do what I can, especially with my ideas such as the online journal club and others I’ve had. #OTalk

Sasa_Radic
@kirstyes #OTalk We collect points for going on different courses, lectures, workshops, writing articles. But the system has so many gaps

kirstyes
@TRAMMCPD Think this is similar to the ‘activity summary’ I use with the students I work with.Great idea to keep track of everything. #otalk

kirstyes
RT @GillyGorry: @merrolee @TRAMMCPD @kirstyes @OTTM2009 @debhearle yeah I think the self directed element appealed to me #OTalk

kirstyes
.@gillyflower78 @TRAMMCPD Ha – love that you’ve created a CPD nagger! #OTalk

TRAMMCPD
#otalk I use Tracker to record everything, team meetings, supervision, training, anything OT related formal or informal

BillWongOT
Through observation of my CPD strategies, I feel that students can benefit from casting a wide net in CPD. 1/2 #otalk

TRAMMCPD
@BoothRach @kirstyes #otalk No everything is free to download from our website http://t.co/C37nLKuSkG

merrolee
#OTalk sorry have to leave technology not playing game and have to go to work 😦

BoothRach
RT @TRAMMCPD: @BoothRach @kirstyes #otalk No everything is free to download from our website http://t.co/C37nLKuSkG

Sasa_Radic
Inner driven CPD is great, but what if OTcommunity does it just for points or similar #OTalk

gillyflower78
@TRAMMCPD @kirstyes Not that Tracker is annoying 😉 Just effective. I set a time each week to update it, just in case I forget… #OTalk

TRAMMCPD
@merrolee #otalk thanks for joining us. We’ll be in touch soon

kirstyes
RT @JeSuisLucie: @TRAMMCPD @kirstyes I really like the sound of this, it appeals to me and my love of lists and spreadsheets!! #OTalk

TRAMMCPD
@gillyflower78 @kirstyes #otalk That’s great, it is most effective when used regularly

kirstyes
.@Sasa_Radic yes not sure how keen I am on points based system. As @merrolee advised being self directed important #otalk

BillWongOT
Practitioners, however, are probably more needs based… often dictated by their areas of practice. #otalk 2/2

eileenhegarty7
@gillyflower78 @TRAMMCPD @kirstyes That sounds like a good system. Do you find it easy to keep to it? #otalk

BoothRach
I wondered how @TRAMMCPD compares to other CPD tools? #otalk

gillyflower78
@JeSuisLucie @kirstyes @TRAMMCPD I agree. It feels systematic and that it covers all bases. #OTalk

TRAMMCPD
#otalk what other CPD tools are available that you are using?

gillyflower78
@BoothRach @TRAMMCPD I’d be interested to know too. TRAMm is the 1st tool I’ve used, other than my own personal organising #OTalk

Sasa_Radic
@kirstyes @merrolee #OTalk I completly agree. This grading system is not good.

TRAMMCPD
@JeSuisLucie #otalk That’s how/why TRAMm was conceived. Using Appreciative Inquiry with lots of enthusiasm that needed a structure

pd2ot
RT @lapsangsusie: So I did some writing last week “@OTalk_Occhat: Responses to @Pd2ot‘s #OTalk “When Occupational Therapy Goes Wrong”: http…

BillWongOT
In US in my opinion, there are many CPD options. #otalk 1/3

GillyGorry
RT @BoothRach: I wondered how @TRAMMCPD compares to other CPD tools? #otalk

pd2ot
RT @clissa89: “Dear OTs”: #DearMentalHealthProfessionals-style responses to @pd2ot‘s “When #OccupationalTherapy Goes Wrong” #OTalk http://t…

Sasa_Radic
RT @BoothRach: I wondered how @TRAMMCPD compares to other CPD tools? #otalk

kirstyes
.@BillWongOT Important to balance this with thinking to the future and planning for longer term career #OTalk

eileenhegarty7
@TRAMMCPD TRAMm is the first comprehensive tool I’ve come across. Our national org AOTI have a tracker and a reflection guide #otalk

kirstyes
RT @Sasa_Radic: Inner driven CPD is great, but what if OTcommunity does it just for points or similar #OTalk

BoothRach
#otalk sorry full of questions tonight this tool is new to me and just had a brief look, so am I right in thinking you download and keep!

Sasa_Radic
RT @kirstyes: .@BillWongOT Important to balance this with thinking to the future and planning for longer term career #OTalk

BillWongOT
The good- diverse options = something for every OT student and practitioner. #otalk 2/3

BoothRach
#otalk it’s not keep on line some where?

JeSuisLucie
@TRAMMCPD I’m going to d/l and give it a go soon. Sounds like it suits my style #OTalk

SarahMassey92
I’m glad TRAMm has been brought to my attention. It looks like something I could use that is clear and concise #OTalk

BillWongOT
The bad- each state have different requirements (on top of 1’s by NBCOT), and generally the requirements are too easy to reach. #otalk 3/3

gillyflower78
@BoothRach Yes, store on your computer and as paper copy. I’ve organised my records to correlate with the TRAMm stops #otalk

TRAMMCPD
@BoothRach #otalk Yes, download & complete, make it work for u & your organisation. Welcome to contact us, via the website if u have queries

Sasa_Radic
RT @SarahMassey92: I’m glad TRAMm has been brought to my attention. It looks like something I could use that is clear and concise #OTalk

TRAMMCPD
@BoothRach #otalk not yet but it is something for future consideration

eileenhegarty7
RT @SarahMassey92: I’m glad TRAMm has been brought to my attention. It looks like something I could use that is clear and concise #OTalk

TRAMMCPD
RT @Sasa_Radic: Inner driven CPD is great, but what if OTcommunity does it just for points or similar #OTalk

BoothRach
@kirstyes ok I have heard of e portfolios to, I have mind saved but my CPD is one if the only things I print and put in a file #otalk

gillyflower78
@trammcpd @kirstyes Any pointers for those of us getting to grips with the model?Presenting TRAMm to peers next week #OTalk

BillWongOT
As a new kid on the block at work, the fact that my boss doesn’t discourage me to go to OT conferences is pretty good already 4 CPD. #otalk

TRAMMCPD
@BillWongOT #otalk Isn’t CPD more than just attending conferences?

BoothRach
RT @TRAMMCPD: @BoothRach #otalk Yes, download & complete, make it work for u & your organisation. Welcome to contact us, via the website if…

BoothRach
@TRAMMCPD great #otalk

BoothRach
RT @TRAMMCPD: @BillWongOT #otalk Isn’t CPD more than just attending conferences?

SarahMassey92
@BoothRach @kirstyes I like the idea of electronic copies but it’s satisfying having hard evidence of work done in a file. #OTalk

BillWongOT
The fact that my boss allows me to do an inservice (an abridged version of my presentation with @CharOTReilly next month) is a bonus. #otalk

eileenhegarty7
@kirstyes @BoothRach I’d like to set up a blog in the new year. Keeping my portfolio electronically as a blog is an appealing idea #otalk

kirstyes
@TRAMMCPD: @BillWongOT #otalk Isn’t CPD more than just attending conferences?” Definitely, not many OTs attend conferences really

BoothRach
@SarahMassey92 @kirstyes I know I like to look at mind, all colour coordinated and sometimes might stroke it’! #otgeek#otalk

BoothRach
@TRAMMCPD yes I think so! #otalk

JeSuisLucie
@eileenhegarty7 @kirstyes @BoothRach I use my blog for CPD stuff as well as reflective accounts or practical applications of theory #OTalk

BoothRach
RT @eileenhegarty7: @kirstyes @BoothRach I’d like to set up a blog in the new year. Keeping my portfolio electronically as a blog is an app…

GillyGorry
RT @TRAMMCPD: @BoothRach #otalk Yes, download & complete, make it work for u & your organisation. Welcome to contact us, via the website if…

BillWongOT
If I have a word of advice 4 new practitioners, knowing their competencies is important information to base their CPD strategies on. #otalk

kirstyes
.@eileenhegarty7 @BoothRach with Wordpess you can make posts secret and password protected so can balance public/private reflection #otalk

TRAMMCPD
@BoothRach #otalk this is part of the reason why we do not have e portfolio available at present

BoothRach
RT @kirstyes: .@eileenhegarty7 @BoothRach with Wordpess you can make posts secret and password protected so can balance public/private refl…

kirstyes
@BoothRach @SarahMassey92 lol #otalk

BoothRach
@kirstyes @eileenhegarty7 this is good to know! #OTalk

BillWongOT
Another advice 4 new practitioners- Prioritize CPD goals, based on personal interests and needs at work. #otalk

eileenhegarty7
@JeSuisLucie @kirstyes @BoothRach I’ll start following your blog, Lucie. Thanks #otalk

kirstyes
@TRAMMCPD @BoothRach realistically you should aim to keep your CPD confidential if offline on paper or online. #otalk

eileenhegarty7
RT @BoothRach: @kirstyes @eileenhegarty7 this is good to know! #OTalk

BoothRach
RT @kirstyes: @TRAMMCPD @BoothRach realistically you should aim to keep your CPD confidential if offline on paper or online. #otalk

SarahMassey92
@BoothRach @kirstyes That sounds like geekery heaven…If only I was that organised :(. #OTalk

BillWongOT
Lastly, this is for every practitioner- set a good example for placement students for CPD! #otalk

TRAMMCPD
@BoothRach @kirstyes #otalk and anything submitted to HCPC must maintain confidentiality

MissHeldi
RT @clissa89: “Dear OTs”: #DearMentalHealthProfessionals-style responses to @pd2ot‘s “When #OccupationalTherapy Goes Wrong” #OTalk http://t…

BoothRach
RT @TRAMMCPD: @BoothRach @kirstyes #otalk and anything submitted to HCPC must maintain confidentiality

TRAMMCPD
RT @BillWongOT: Lastly, this is for every practitioner- set a good example for placement students for CPD! #otalk

kirstyes
RT @BillWongOT: Lastly, this is for every practitioner- set a good example for placement students for CPD! #otalk

TRAMMCPD
#otalk out of interest has anyone been called for HCPC audit?

BillWongOT
My take home point is- CPD strategies can change over time in our OT journeys. #otalk

kirstyes
.@TRAMMCPD Can you just tell us a little more about the Trail element? #OTalk

SarahMassey92
@BillWongOT Wish this was said to my educators. Would have been insightful to see different CPD files with guidance on starting mine #OTalk

Sasa_Radic
RT @kirstyes: .@TRAMMCPD Can you just tell us a little more about the Trail element? #OTalk

kirstyes
@TRAMMCPD @kirstyes: @TRAMMCPD no, I was going to do it anyway but so far other things have stopped me. Must try and find time. #otalk

BoothRach
@TRAMMCPD @kirstyes I get the letter the two years I have not been on the ball knowing me! #otalk

BoothRach
@TRAMMCPD @kirstyes @The_HCPC plus I thin the experience would be good #otalk

Helen_otuk
RT @BillWongOT: Lastly, this is for every practitioner- set a good example for placement students for CPD! #otalk

TRAMMCPD
@Sasa_Radic @kirstyes @debhearle #otalk even if OT community does CPD 4 points its important 2 use cpd tools to be strategic planning career

BillWongOT
Another take home point- 4 students transitioning to OT’s, they should think of CPD strategies b4 their 1st day working as an OT. #otalk

GillyGorry
Really enjoying tonight’s #otalk next week we have a special double chat 7-8 maintaining registration run with HCPC then by journal club 8-9

BoothRach
RT @TRAMMCPD: @Sasa_Radic @kirstyes @debhearle #otalk even if OT community does CPD 4 points its important 2 use cpd tools to be strategic …

kirstyes
RT @GillyGorry: Really enjoying tonight’s #otalk next week we have a special double chat 7-8 maintaining registration run with HCPC then by…

Helen_otuk
RT @GillyGorry: Really enjoying tonight’s #otalk next week we have a special double chat 7-8 maintaining registration run with HCPC then by…

TRAMMCPD
RT @GillyGorry: Really enjoying tonight’s #otalk next week we have a special double chat 7-8 maintaining registration run with HCPC then by…

BoothRach
RT @GillyGorry: Really enjoying tonight’s #otalk next week we have a special double chat 7-8 maintaining registration run with HCPC then by…

Sasa_Radic
RT @TRAMMCPD: @Sasa_Radic @kirstyes @debhearle #otalk even if OT community does CPD 4 points its important 2 use cpd tools to be strategic …

kirstyes
Last five minutes. We should probably move to take away points. #otalk Huge thanks to the @TRAMMCPD team for hosting.

BoothRach
RT @kirstyes: Last five minutes. We should probably move to take away points. #otalk Huge thanks to the @TRAMMCPD team for hosting.

Helen_otuk
@TRAMMCPD has anyone using TRAMm been audited and reported on usefulness in process? #otalk

TRAMMCPD
#otalk consider what drives u on cpd journey besides being regulated

kirstyes
Don’t forget to comment on the Journal Club blog. Yes I know I need to also.Aiming to do Friday if not before. http://t.co/Onxro8YUMm #otalk

kirstyes
RT @Helen_otuk: @TRAMMCPD has anyone using TRAMm been audited and reported on usefulness in process? #otalk

eileenhegarty7
@kirstyes @TRAMMCPD Take away points – get strategic with CPD and learn from the experience of others #otalk

BoothRach
Take away points #otalk I need to think More widely about my CPD, and think I will discuss this with my team and students on placement!

gillyflower78
@TRAMMCPD As a student, personal development rather than audit is my motivator #OTalk

BoothRach
RT @eileenhegarty7: @kirstyes @TRAMMCPD Take away points – get strategic with CPD and learn from the experience of others #otalk

Helen_otuk
RT @kirstyes: Don’t forget to comment on the Journal Club blog. Yes I know I need to also.Aiming to do Friday if not before. http://t.co/On…

eileenhegarty7
@kirstyes Looking forward to first Journal Club. Planning to comment at the weekend #otalk

Zoe_with2dots
RT @kirstyes: Don’t forget to comment on the Journal Club blog. Yes I know I need to also.Aiming to do Friday if not before. http://t.co/On…

TRAMMCPD
#otalk many thanks everyone for joining us. Sorry if we have not replied to everyone.

BoothRach
RT @gillyflower78: @TRAMMCPD As a student, personal development rather than audit is my motivator #OTalk

kirstyes
RT @gillyflower78: @TRAMMCPD As a student, personal development rather than audit is my motivator #OTalk

TRAMMCPD
#otalk Remeber strategic CPD is important for yourself not just maintaining registration. TRAMm can help you achieve this…

kirstyes
@gillyflower78: @TRAMMCPD As a student, personal development rather than audit is my motivator #OTalk” As it should be always ideally.

gillyflower78
@TRAMMCPD Thanks for hosting, enjoyed tonight’s #OTalk

LeonoraOT
Hi #otalk late but interested to read through your chat 🙂

BoothRach
RT @TRAMMCPD: #otalk Remeber strategic CPD is important for yourself not just maintaining registration. TRAMm can help you achieve this…

kirstyes
@LeonoraOT interested in your thoughts too. #otalk

eileenhegarty7
@TRAMMCPD @kirstyes Thanking for hosting and for bringing this exciting tool to my attention. Talk to you all next week #otalk

SarahMassey92
My #OTalk take home point is start ASAP and get to grips with the TRAMm format.

kirstyes
How great that next week 7-8 will follow this up with a chat by @The_HCPC #otalk

Helen_otuk
@gillyflower78 @TRAMMCPD not just as a student life long learner is my motivation. #OTalk

kirstyes
@SarahMassey92 good plan! #otalk

Helen_otuk
Yay “@eileenhegarty7: @kirstyes Looking forward to first Journal Club. Planning to comment at the weekend #otalk

TRAMMCPD
@gillyflower78 @kirstyes #otalk Start as mean to go on…

SarahMassey92
Also glad to see so much enthusiasm for the online journal club. Hope to put that in my CPD as a new service 🙂 #OTalk

JeSuisLucie
really interested in trying @TRAMMCPD, thanks for hosting!! #OTalk

kirstyes
.@gillyflower78 @TRAMMCPD Think you may be what @merrolee would call a self directed learner! #otalk

Helen_otuk
You would think we planned it. Strategic “@kirstyes: How great that next week 7-8 will follow this up with a chat by @The_HCPC #otalk

TRAMMCPD
#otalk remember: don’t worry about the bag/drawer full of CPD certificates just start NOW to avoid panic in 2 yrs time

kirstyes
RT @Helen_otuk: You would think we planned it. Strategic “@kirstyes: How great that next week 7-8 will follow this up with a chat by @The_

kirstyes
@Helen_otuk @The_HCPC lol. #otalk

gillyflower78
@kirstyes @TRAMMCPD @merrolee Or is that #OTgeek? 😉 #OTalk

gillyflower78
RT @TRAMMCPD: #otalk remember: don’t worry about the bag/drawer full of CPD certificates just start NOW to avoid panic in 2 yrs time

Helen_otuk
Same thing? “@gillyflower78: @kirstyes @TRAMMCPD @merrolee Or is that #OTgeek? 😉 #OTalk

GillyGorry
thanks @TRAMMCPD for a great #otalk and to @kirstyes for doing a fab job supporting as always 🙂

kirstyes
@gillyflower78: @kirstyes @TRAMMCPD @merrolee Or is that #OTgeek? 😉 #OTalk” same thing I believe.

GillyGorry
is going to put some serious effort into getting my Tramm on 🙂 #otalk #cpd #occupationaltherapy #organisemychaos

Helen_otuk
Been a bit tricky following on phone this eve. But enjoyed too. Thanks. #otalk

TRAMMCPD
@kirstyes #otalk Many thanks for your support tonight

TRAMMCPD
RT @GillyGorry: is going to put some serious effort into getting my Tramm on 🙂 #otalk #cpd #occupationaltherapy #organisemychaos

kirstyes
Night all. Will try and get transcript up ASAP but please forgive me if not tomorrow night. Cold a brewing. #otalk

kirstyes
@TRAMMCPD more than welcome. A topic close to my heart. Going to aim to be less Bull more Chessboard. #otalk

CroftVictoria
RT @OTalk_Occhat: #OTalk 24th September 2013 – The TRAMm Model (A tool for CPD) http://t.co/FQx9eT56me

kirstyes
RT @TRAMMCPD: #otalk remember: don’t worry about the bag/drawer full of CPD certificates just start NOW to avoid panic in 2 yrs time

kirstyes
.@TRAMMCPD excellent advice. #otalk

gillyflower78
RT @GillyGorry: thanks @TRAMMCPD for a great #otalk and to @kirstyes for doing a fab job supporting as always 🙂

BMCOKCOTAS
Hey @Upworthy and @Love146 check out @NoBoundariesOKC @NoBoundariesInt #HT #OTalk #OTuesday

TRAMMCPD
@Sasa_Radic #otalk thank you for joining us tonight. If you need more information don’t hesitate to contact us

Bucowa_Magi
♥♥ #MeetOtaku #OTalk #Code_Geass http://t.co/qJRJVDsbDM

clearsci
@kirstyes what’re you using for the #otalk transcripts? Have you considered http://t.co/f3uLWc18OW may be easier & quick. 🙂 Happy to advise

family_success
RT @eileenhegarty7: @kirstyes Looking forward to first Journal Club. Planning to comment at the weekend #otalk

N_504_144
RT @Bucowa_Magi: ♥♥ #MeetOtaku #OTalk #Code_Geass http://t.co/qJRJVDsbDM

LeonoraOT
It’s worth checking out RT“@TRAMMCPD: @BoothRach @kirstyes #otalk No everything is free to download from our website http://t.co/HH56XSfE58”

LeonoraOT
RT @GillyGorry: Really enjoying tonight’s #otalk next week we have a special double chat 7-8 maintaining registration run with HCPC then by…

MaryBoothOT
RT @BoothRach: Just settled in to my hotel, and walked round to a place called the waterline, for my tea. All alone in newcastle

Wardmans
RT @BoothRach: I wondered how @TRAMMCPD compares to other CPD tools? #otalk

zero0sama
RT @Bucowa_Magi: ♥♥ #MeetOtaku #OTalk #Code_Geass http://t.co/qJRJVDsbDM

BillWongOT
@merrolee it is so huge that it is overwhelming. It’s hard to keep up w/ latest evidence while learning vital skills to be on my own. #otalk

BillWongOT
@kirstyes I think there is an interest part to this- I prefer pediatrics, hence my CPD focus is on it. #otalk

BillWongOT
RT @kirstyes: .@BillWongOT Important to balance this with thinking to the future and planning for longer term career #OTalk

BillWongOT
@kirstyes for longer term career, I do have teaching in mind. OT’s with OTD’s can teach at OT programs in US. #otalk

BillWongOT
@kirstyes @TRAMMCPD I attend conferences because I want to set a good CPD example for my mentees. #otalk

BillWongOT
@kirstyes @TRAMMCPD another reason I attend conferences because I love presenting at conferences. #otalk

BillWongOT
@kirstyes @TRAMMCPD but u are right, had I not been who I am in OT… 13 conferences will be > twice of my career total instead. #otalk

BillWongOT
@gillyflower78 my strategy for the next few years is going beyond autism for CPD in pediatrics. 1/2 #otalk

BillWongOT
@gillyflower78 the only times I will do that is either the speaker is good, or I am preparing for an #ot conference proposal. 2/2 #otalk

BillWongOT
@SarahMassey92 personally I mentor students in professional development for this reason. I will tell them my strategies as I go. #otalk

BillWongOT
RT @SarahMassey92: Also glad to see so much enthusiasm for the online journal club. Hope to put that in my CPD as a new service 🙂 #OTalk

TRAMMCPD
@BillWongOT #otalk CPD is about what u ‘do’ with knowledge gained at conf to improve ur practice. 1/2

BAOTNYRegion
RT @TRAMMCPD: @BillWongOT #otalk CPD is about what u ‘do’ with knowledge gained at conf to improve ur practice. 1/2

TRAMMCPD
@BillWongOT #otalk. CPD Everyday learning is as important, if not more so, to improve practice alongside listening2/2 http://t.co/tshW7SoPDJ

Helen_otuk
@DawnFraser_OT Dawn, welcome to the world of #OTGEEK, which is alive a well in the twitterverse. I would recommend #OTalk Tuesday 8pm.

kirstyes
@clearsci @TRAMMCPD Great – thanks – will link to in the blog post tonight. #otalk

BAOTCOT
Responses to #OTalk “When Occupational Therapy Goes Wrong” – food for thought! http://t.co/oVbtxyECVT

KellyOT
RT @BAOTCOT: Responses to #OTalk “When Occupational Therapy Goes Wrong” – food for thought! http://t.co/oVbtxyECVT

OTBeth131
RT @BAOTCOT: Responses to #OTalk “When Occupational Therapy Goes Wrong” – food for thought! http://t.co/oVbtxyECVT

OTtwehy
@TRAMMCPD sorry to have missed #otalk last night. Looking forward to catching up I’m sure it was a great one.

TRAMMCPD
@OTtwehy we really enjoyed #otalk. The summary should be up soon.There was so much going on all at once. You’re hosting one soon aren’t you?

OTtwehy
@TRAMMCPD awh I’m glad you enjoyed it 🙂 yep I’m hosting #otalk on the 29th of October is it as scary as I think?

TRAMMCPD
@OTtwehy #otalk I was really nervous before start, needn’t have been. @kirstyes was great and DM me with tips as went along. You’ll be fab

TRAMMCPD
@OTtwehy #otalk community really friendly and positive

kirstyes
@OTtwehy @TRAMMCPD Thanks for the kind words. It’s the fab #otalk community that makes it go so smoothly.

OTalk

“Dear Occupational Therapists” – Responses to #OTalk “When Occupational Therapy Goes Wrong”

Last week, @pd2ot hosted an #OTalk entitled “When Occupational Therapy Goes Wrong” (the transcript of the chat can be found at this link). Following this chat, we invited people to continue the conversation, unrestricted by Twitter’s 140 character limit:

I was pleased to receive two thought-provoking responses: one from Sarah (@carerseyes), who blogs about her experiences  of caring for her partner with borderline personality disorder, and the other from Linda (@lapsangsusie), who has experienced a range of occupational therapy input as a service user.  I’d like to thank both for taking the time and effort to write about their experiences, and welcome further responses from people who have come into contact with occupational therapy services.

Sarah’s Letter

The full text of Sarah’s letter can be found on her blog post entitled #DearMentalHealthProfessionals. Here is an excerpt:

You see for me, I don’t get any let up, I cannot go home at the end of my day or shift and sit down and relax, fall asleep knowing that I don’t have to think about any of it until the next day because I have to live with it, even when Chris is in hospital, the problems don’t just vanish because this is my life. I often feel, sadly by some of you that you take me for granted, that I am the first person you will blame when Chris isn’t well, be it because I didn’t lock up his medication, I fell asleep and he left the house or any other number of other factors. Yet I am the last person a lot of you listen to or even think to speak with, I sometimes feel forgotten until you next need someone to shoulder the blame or responsibility. I just want you to work with me, I am there to help you because I love the person I care for very much, I have eight years worth of understanding, please don’t talk to me like I don’t know him at all. While I don’t hold the qualifications you do, while I am not even considered to be employed and I often tackle the daily stigma around all of this, I know more about him than you likely ever will, because it is me who has been his constant for so long.

Linda’s Letter

 Linda Bates completed a PhD in medieval literature in 2010. She blogs at lindyb28.blogspot.co.uk on a variety of topics, from ballet to baking, from knitting to novels, but especially on issues surrounding eating disorders…. and her two dogs. She has lived with anorexia since she “gave up eating” at the age of 10 when unwell and unhappy, and is pleased when writing about her experiences allows other people to gain a deeper insight into the illness or its treatment.

Below is the full text of Linda’s letter. Fictional place names have been used(*):

Dear OTs,

My first encounter with your profession was back in 1989. I’d gone into hospital just after my 11th birthday and spent 6 months there. Most weekdays, my physio would give me a piggyback to the hydrotherapy pool, which was right next to the OT “cupboard”. (cupboard is what she called it. But she also told me that OTs were cockroaches and that green uniforms were vastly inferior to blue ones, so it’s possible that we should take her words with a pinch of salt!)

Eventually I figured out that OTs helped people use a kettle if being ill meant that they could no longer make themselves a cup of tea. My uncle had recently had a stroke so I understood the OTs’ role in terms of the kind of rehab that he had experienced.

I didn’t know about the importance of OTs in a mental health setting until my first inpatient admission to an eating disorder unit as an adult in 1998. I spent 9 weeks on bedrest because my physical health on admission was very poor. So the OT was crucial in helping me to avoid bedrest boredom: she would bring down a tray of craft activities to my room and I’d spend an hour (or however long I could manage) with her, escaping into a crafty dimension that sometimes managed to transcend the restrictions of being confined to a small room, 24/7, on constant 1-1 observations. She would also bring a CD player for guided relaxations.

For the rest of that admission, and the next two inpatient admissions in the same unit, my experience of OT followed the same pattern of offering escape from, rather than addressing of, my mental health difficulties. The exception to this was during my third admission (2003-4) when, in addition to craft and relaxation, I also did some work on cooking, shopping and “snacks out” with the OT team. This has been of limited use in practice because of the inherent artificiality: it is as hard to transfer the process of cooking/eating with an OT in a hospital OT kitchen to the daily challenge of bothering to make food for myself as it is to eat the same quantities and types of food served in the ward dining room seven times a day.

That third admission took place between my second and third years of university and I was very fortunate to work closely with an outpatient eating disorders OT during the 6 months before I went up to Casterbridge* in 2001. With her, I was able to move, at a steady pace, from being unable to eat anything that I hadn’t prepared myself to eating an identical meal at a café to having coffee in Rummidge* Uni canteen (our EDU is very close to the Uni) and eventually even trying some food there. So she helped me by focusing in on the specific challenges that I would face as someone starting university with long term restrictive anorexia. Even though it didn’t make it easy to eat in front of people or in communal settings once I was in Casterbridge, it was vital in productively managing my anxiety so that I didn’t become too overwhelmed to make the important step of moving away to university after a total of 14 months in hospital during the few years that had passed after my A Levels.

During a later hospital admission (2007), I was very pleased when a drama group appeared on the group programme. I was doing a PhD in English literature at the time and have always loved drama, even attending a performing arts boarding school for VIth Form. However, when the group began, the two OTs running the session seemed totally unable to cope when I challenged the printed handouts we were given on Macbeth; it gave a summary of the play that was facile and misleading and, rightly or wrongly, my instinct is always to analyse and discuss literature. The OTs didn’t try to incorporate my thoughts into the group so the whole situation became rather negative and frustrating, probably for them as well as for me. After this session, the group was cancelled. On reflection, I wonder whether the OTs could have utilised the skills of the participants in the group, including my literature and theatre background, to improve the way that the group worked for us. I’m not sure whether the group set out with specific aims but I feel that if participants have existing interest or skills in a topic, it’s possible that this could enhance the group’s success rather than making it a failure. Perhaps the difficulty is that a lot of groups operate on a very hierarchical model: the OT or nurse facilitator has The Knowledge and we, as service users, as supposed to be the empty jugs that passively receive it. This model is particularly problematic in eating disorder wards, where many patients have been through the group programme several times before and therefore may know the assertiveness, or self-esteem, or nutrition course as well as the person delivering it.

In 2010, I had another experience of outpatient occupational therapy, this time with a community MHT OT, who admitted to me in the first session that she’d never spoken to a person with an eating disorder before. Our appointments were the result of the community psychiatrist requesting that I be assigned a CPN (Casterbridge Adult EDS were refusing to offer me treatment for my anorexia so general mental health services were trying to work out what to do with me). The meeting of CPNs decided that I didn’t meet the criteria for their lists and therefore, somewhat randomly, I was assigned to the team OT. I had recently submitted my PhD so she mostly focused on what I should Do With My Life and brought in an [employment service] man to speak to me. He had never worked with anyone with a PhD and had not heard of the type of jobs for which I’d been applying. I was struggling very badly at the time with my food intake and was feeling very low about having no purpose now that my PhD was complete; being referred to a service that seemed geared to finding work for people with very different skill sets from my own actually contributed to my growing sense of despair. The tipping point in this relationship came when I arrived at an appointment feeling quite distressed: I had learned that morning that a friend had given birth, which had triggered some painful emotions about being single, with no prospect of either a relationship, and of how long term anorexia may mean that I would never become a mother myself. The OT’s suggestion? I should go to my GP and ask to be referred for artificial insemination. I don’t want to give BMI info that could trigger other people with eating disorders, but it’s important to point out that the likelihood that I could have conceived at that point, let alone carry a baby to term or find the emotional resilience to care for it, was miniscule. This conversation was so distressing for me that I didn’t make any future appointments to meet that OT. At the next appointment with the community psychiatrist, she suggested that I move back to Rummidge so that I could once again access eating disorder treatment. I followed her advice and was back in hospital within a week of seeing the specialist there.

During the 6-month admission that followed, the unit’s inpatient OT was on maternity leave. She had taken her full year’s allowance and the unit had not paid for a replacement. Therefore the group programme was barely running and rehab activities could happen only when the (extremely busy) nursing staff had enough cover to be able to leave the ward. Obviously, as OTs, you can’t control whether you will be replaced if you have time off work; but perhaps you could stress to management how vital your work can be and the ways that patients will be affected in your absence.

Finally, a few months ago, I attended the day treatment service of the same eating disorder unit. This is run by an OT and she has a lot of expertise in running therapeutic groups, which are very beneficial. However, the emphasis on “therapy” is not matched with equivalent “occupational” focus. My main struggles came with facing mealtimes in the dining room and the OT revealed to me that my anxiety was causing her a lot of stress. She was unable to help me make progress with eating and therefore a mutual decision was made that I should be discharged from day treatment.

If you are still reading after I’ve unfolded this long catalogue of OT experiences, thank you for listening to me. I feel that it’s important to state that I have benefited from occupational therapy and I’m sorry that the focus of this piece has been where it has been unhelpful (although I suppose that is inevitable given that the theme of the OTalk that inspired this post was “occupational therapy gone wrong”). I probably should have extrapolated something tangible from each experience to offer as advice for you all. However, I think that is possibly less helpful than saying that my experiences have happened because of me being me: a unique combination of emotions, slightly irrational love of my dogs, education and 30+ years of living in my head. And you can extrapolate, therefore, that each service user is an individual, with their own patchwork of experiences, talents, likes, dislikes, etc. Listening is more important than talking sometimes and, from this, positive therapeutic relationships can emerge.

Update: You may be interested to read Linda’s blog post, “Talking to OTs”, about her experience of participating in #OTalk and the unexpected challenges of sharing her open letter. Reading this made me value even more the way she and others have shared their stories with us, and the vulnerability that this can bring.