Community occupational therapists and volunteers: a survey of utilization and satisfaction

Current estimates lead us to believe that approximately 16% of the population works in some capacity on a volunteer basis. In spite of the size of this valuable human resource, occupational therapists often remark that they are unable to find suitable volunteers to assist with patient-related activities. The present study is an attempt to explore this topic, looking specifically at how community occupational therapists use volunteers, and how satisfied they are with the services provided. A descriptive survey was carried out in two parts: a questionnaire was distributed to all therapists associated with Community Occupational Therapy Associates (COTA) in Toronto; and, a structured interview was conducted with a sample of therapists who indicated they were dissatisfied with volunteer services. The survey revealed three problems: non-availability of appropriate volunteers to do specific patient-related activities; poor communication between therapists and volunteers; and general negative feelings about the reliability and accountability of volunteers. Based on identified problems and in consultation with the literature, a program was set up at COTA to enhance the effective utilization of volunteers within the agency.