Following up on the exciting discussion over some of the WFOT’s intentions and projects, I am again requesting input from WFOT Member Organizations and individuals on:
World Disability Report
Please forward your comments on the World Disability Report’s content and Recommendations. I also welcome feedback on some of the considerations I proposed for national and local organizations to promote and advance the War’s content and other strategies related to disability issues. Of course, your own suggestions are welcome. Please send submissions to the WFOT Secretariat admin@wfot.org.au and in the Subject, line put WFOT WDR by November 30, 2011.
Mental Health Practice
The WFOT has Mental Health Master Plan project to increase the response and impact of profession to the growing world burden of mental illness and mental health needs. Occupational Therapists are an underutilized professional resource in most mental health service considerations. In what areas do member organizations suggest that OT service could be expanded or improved (be specific and what educational content is suggest for a core curriculum (international) that would be essential for all entry level practitioners? A country perspective is encouraged. There is an immediate need for your general feedback as the information will serve to inform the research team (RCOMH) in developing questions applicable for an international survey and other parts of the WFOT MH master plan. Th e request is for the opinions of all clinicians including experts on what is thought to be some of the pressing considerations for occupational therapists working with mental health clients . The information is needed at your earliest convenience. Please send submissions to the WFOT Secretariat admin@wfot.org.au and in the Subject line put WFOT MH MP by October 15, 2011.
Developmental challenges in Children with HIV/Aids
The discussion on occupational therapists contribution to programs relating to disability and developmental issues for children with HIV Aides identified it as a Global Health Issue. This is something of great interest to the WFOT. The request is for anyone interested in being part of a Working Group (WG) lead by Annemadelein Scherer to contact her directly. The group’s output will lead to a formal project plan for the WFOT's consideration. There is an opportunity to harness the developments and strategies arising out of the work being dome in South Africa that could benefit other parts of the world. Anyone willing to participate should contact Annemadelein directly annemadelein@gmail.com soon with a CC to the WFOT Secretariat admin@wfot.org.au and in the Subject line put WFOT HIV/Aides WG. 2011.
Thank you all it was a pleasure to attend OTARG and meet with so many of you.
E Sharon Brintnell
President, WFOT
