Returning to practice
The College asks all occupational therapists to pro-actively create more favourable conditions for those returning to work after a career break
Our briefing on Returning to Practice provides information on returning to practice after a period of absence, or if you did not enter practice for a significant period after obtaining an approved qualification. It outlines the requirements of the registration body - the Health Professions Council - and offers practical advice and suggestions so that you feel confident about the steps you need to take.
Download Returning to Practice
Visit the Health Professions Council (HPC) website for more information:
www.hpc-uk.org/registrants/readmission/
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for returning to practice
The FAQs will be useful if you are returning to practice after a career break, planning a career break or supervising a return to practice.
Download FAQs for Returning to Practice
Legal requirements for professional practice
The Health Professions Council (HPC) is the UK-wide statutory regulator for a number of professions, set up following the Health Professions Order in 2001.
It sets the standards of professional training, performance and conduct for the professions that it regulates, and maintains a register of health professionals that meet their requirements. It is a legal requirement for a practitioner to be registered with the HPC in order to practice using one of the registered professional titles (protected titles) which includes the title of 'occupational therapist'. Those on the register may have action taken against them if they fail to meet the required standards.
Visit the Health Professions Council website: www.hpc-uk.org
People who work with children or vulnerable adults have to undergo a security check
Checking the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) is normally the responsibility of your employer. However, if you are an independent practitioner and you work with children or vulnerable adults you need to arrange your own CRB check. You may also need to do this if your employer is an independent provider.
Visit the DirectGov website for more information about CRB checks.
Visit the Criminal Records Bureau: http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/agencies-public-bodies/crb/
Additional checks for those working with vulnerable adults
People who work with vulnerable adults need to be aware of the Department of Health’s Protection of Vulnerable Adults Scheme (POVA) which applies in England and Wales. Your employer must check that you are not on this list before employing you if you are going to work with vulnerable adults.
See the Department of Health's POVA scheme
