UK occupational therapy workforce survey 2024-25: A baseline for workforce transformation

The United Kingdom (UK) occupational therapy (OT) workforce faces increasing demand amid demographic transitions and workforce shortages. The Royal College of Occupational Therapists developed a national workforce strategy in 2024, necessitating baseline data to measure progress.

A national survey employed adaptive sampling to achieve comprehensive representation of the UK OT workforce, examining demographics, diversity, and practitioner experiences.

Two thousand two hundred seventy-seven respondents completed the survey (4.32% of Health and Care Professions Council-registered occupational therapists). Response rates varied by question, with some allowing multiple selections. Sixty-seven percent reported increased service demand, with complex, multiple conditions being the most commonly selected driver (63%). Despite 41% experiencing high stress levels, 57% remained satisfied with their roles. Key retention factors were helping others achieve goals (64%) and direct service user contact (61%). Evidence use favoured service user feedback (71%) over published research (47%) and cost-effectiveness data (13%). Only 6% felt very confident with artificial intelligence technologies, despite 57% seeing potential. Main challenges included understaffing (46%) and system capacity gaps (46%).

The workforce demonstrates resilience amid systemic pressures. Priority actions include addressing staffing shortages, enhancing the use of robust evidence to inform practice, building digital confidence, and supporting workforce motivation to help others achieve their goals. Findings provide baseline data with international relevance.