Occupation for Mental Health and Social Inclusion

Social inclusion and occupational science sit well together and there is a strong case for occupational therapists to take more of a lead with socially inclusive practice. The implications and challenges for occupational therapy roles in mental health services are explored and inclusive practice is discussed in the light of policy that is designed to broaden professional roles. It is argued that if occupational therapists in mental health are going to meet the social inclusion agenda with an occupational focus, they need a political and social awareness in their work with service users and mental health teams.