ECC: Returners Occupational Therapy Programme

Equip, Empower and Elevate’

Flagship Getting Back to Occupational Therapy Programme

Returning to work after a break can be full of obstacles and a daunting prospect. Essex County Council recognise the value of diversity and are taking significant steps to ensure the workplace is supportive and open to everyone, including those who have taken a career break.

Their flagship Getting Back to Occupational Therapy Programme, which will be launched on International Women’s Day, is specifically designed to bridge the gap between taking a career break and re-entering the workplace. The overall objective it to ‘equip, empower and elevate’ Occupational Therapists who have a lapsed HCPC registration return to work.

Sharon Loivette from Capita Resourcing worked in partnership with the Council to design the solution and said, “Many of us need to take time out from our careers, but it can be really hard to return. As well as not being good for those affected, it is also detrimental to businesses who can miss out on talented individuals. Occupational Therapists in particular, can find the routes back into employment closed after taking time out to start a family because it can be difficult to meet the HCPC registration requirements of keeping professional skills and knowledge up to date.”

Returners will be paid during the 10-week programme and the training will build upon existing experience; the focus being to refresh skills and knowledge. Professional strength-based coaching will help individuals build their confidence and excel as they transition back into the workplace. As well as professional training, individuals will get ongoing support whilst at work to ensure that they are able to start making a difference from day one.

This pioneering initiative, aimed at women and men looking to rebuild their career, will help develop best practice on what works to support career returners back to work.

Sharon added, “To be competitive and resilient an organisation must attract and retain the very best talent, from all walks of life and all backgrounds. This programme is about accessing untapped talent; ensuring we leverage people’s previous experiences, supporting them to rebuild their confidence and helping them unlock their potential”