A framework for occupational enablement to facilitate social change in community practice

Community practice in occupational therapy is becoming increasingly relevant worldwide. Moreover, a social-change approach focusing on occupational enablement is pertinent in community practice as occupational therapists endeavour to promote health, well-being, and occupational justice in communities.

Drawing on theory from the fields of community development, community engagement, and occupational enablement, and based on the findings of a previous empirical, qualitative study, a framework for occupational enablement in community practice was developed.

This article presents the background to the development of the framework, after which the framework is introduced and discussed in terms of the composition, relevance, and application of its components. The framework details outcomes and objectives that may be targeted and activities that may be utilized successfully during occupational therapy community practice engagements. It further illuminates facilitators of enablement related to contextual factors, stakeholders, and strategies that enhance the potential for enabling community practice engagements.

This framework can provide a strategic management guideline for occupational therapists and students who engage with communities in endeavours such as community development and service learning.