HEE and RCOT unite to create new blended training programme

HEE and the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) have worked together to create the first blended training programme for occupational therapists in perinatal mental health.

Occupational therapists play a key role in promoting women’s recovery from perinatal mental health problems, helping them overcome the barriers preventing them from doing the activities that matter to them and their children.

The new blended training programme is being highlighted to coincide with Occupational Therapy Week (2-8 November). It includes an e-learning programme of six sessions, hosted on the e-Learning for Healthcare Hub, as well as a  clinical forum for occupational therapists working in this specialist area.

The forum is being hosted by RCOT for new and existing members, who will have access to a wide range of learning resources and information.

The e-learning sessions have already been launched more than 3,000 times.

Occupational therapists taking part will also have access to networking opportunities and study events (virtual during the current COVID-19 pandemic).

Rebecca Burgess-Dawson, Clinical Lead for Mental Health Education and Quality, Health Education England, said: “This innovation enables occupational therapists to embed their practice within the context of specialist perinatal mental healthcare, and further consolidate their expertise within teams.

“Teaching with clinical experts, coupled with sessions remotely and online, means this programme maximises flexibility whilst still creating a learning community.”

Dr Sally Payne, RCOT Professional Adviser said: “Occupational therapists play a vital role in perinatal mental health. This is a growing area of practice and to support occupational therapists here at RCOT we have created, with a group of clinical experts, an innovative training programme, giving occupational therapists knowledge and skills to support women’s mental health, both before and after childbirth.”

More information about the e-learning programme can be found here:- https://www.e-lfh.org.uk/programmes/perinatal-mental-health/