Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I join Specialist Section – Independent Practice?
This specialist section is for occupational therapists, new to or established in the independent sector; with the aim of promoting awareness and implementation of sound business practices and supporting members in the start-up, running and development of their independent practice/business. As such, members have access to a range of benefits including resources and information, training and networking and learning opportunities and training and events. Members are also provided with the opportunity to advertise their occupational therapy services through the online Find an Occupational Therapist directory (free of charge).
Can I be a member of Specialist Section – Independent Practice if I am not a member of RCOT?
You must first be a member of RCOT before you can join any specialist section.
What are the membership fees?
• Professional membership - £35
• Self Employed membership - £35
• Overseas membership - £15
• Associate membership - £15
• Retired membership - £15
• Student membership - £5
What if I have any membership questions/issues?
Please email membership@rcot.co.uk with any questions related to your membership, including specialist section membership (e.g. payments, passwords).
What is the Find an Occupational Therapist directory?
This is an online directory aimed at helping members of the public and other professionals find an appropriate independent occupational therapist. It is the only list of independent occupational therapists with RCOT.
How do I set up a Find an Occupational Therapist directory profile?
If you would like your free directory profile please email coordinator@rcotss-ip.org.uk.
Can I include my business partner on my Find an Occupational Therapist profile?
You can advertise your occupational therapy services either as an individual or a company (with the option of having two profiles to do both); but you cannot have a joint entry with a business partner.
I have set up a Find an Occupational Therapist profile but I do not appear to be listed?
Please check the following:
• that you have not exceeded the word counts (re. Qualifications, Search Results and Profile text boxes)
• that you have provided your postcode
• that you have selected the occupational therapy services that you offer from the find an occupational therapist search criteria
• that you have displayed your profile
• that you have saved your profile
Please email coordinator@rcotss-ip.org.uk if your profile is still not listed.
What fee should I charge?
Regulations do not permit us to ask or monitor what our members charge but hourly rates vary depending on experience and expenses. When starting-up in business you will need to have a clear pricing structure that considers your expenses (e.g. rent, heating, lighting, equipment, holiday and sick pay etc).
What is the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirement for independent occupational therapists?
All HCPC registered occupational therapists are required to meet CPD Standards What is CPD?
More information can be found on the RCOT website.
What insurance cover do I need?
The RCOT Malpractice and Professional Liability & Public and Products Liability Insurance includes cover (up to £10 million) for individual occupational therapists practising occupational therapy whatever the setting (statutory or independent / employed or self-employed). The insurance is for the individual only – separate additional insurance will need to be organised in respect of a limited company or partnership.
Other questions?
Professional Advice Service FAQs (Members Only) - RCOT