British Journal of Occupational Therapy

This paper summarizes the results of a survey undertaken during 1984 to determine the extent of occupational therapy services in relation to this specialized field of the profession. The survey focused on the number of units and established posts, postregistration training, special interest groups and research.

This article is intended to serve as an introduction to the treatment of patients from different cultures. Particular attention is given to practical and psychological problems and to the need to develop awareness of transcultural factors relevant to occupational therapy practice.

The Social Services Committee of the House of Commons has invited professional bodies to submit evidence for its inquiry into ‘Community care, with special reference to the adult mentally ill and mentally handicapped’. The following submission was prepared by Diana Ridler (member of the Community Occupational Therapists Committee, with special responsibility for mental health) and Elizabeth Yates (member of the District Occupational Therapists Committee) on behalf of the College of Occupational Therapists.

This article is a personal account of experience in the use of therapeutic vibration techniques with mentally and physically handicapped people. The equipment is described and case studies provided. The author has found the techniques to be of practical use for many people with a combination of problems.

This article presents a model of practice for occupational therapy, derived from the adapting quality of human beings, and suggests ways in which it may be applied in clinical settings. The value of a model is that it identifies the unique contribution of a profession.