Special Interest Groups (SIGs)

Special Interest Groups (SIGs) are groups, networks or forums of occupational therapists who meet to discuss specific clinical areas and related subjects

Special Interest Groups are not formally recognised by the College but we do encourage their work. Members of these groups, networks or forums sometimes represent the College for specific pieces of work. The Specialist Sections Officer provides full support to these members who decide to apply for Specialist Section status.
 
The following steps need to be implemented to allow progression to a Specialist Section:

1. Usually a group of OTs have been meeting for several years, growing out of an interested group or network of OTs working in related areas of clinical activity.In the first instance these groups are usually co-ordinated by a few motivated individuals, and as the interest and membership develops and grows activities are co-ordinated by a Committee.
    
2. In turn these groups, networks or forums often hold seminars or study days to generate interest, and out of this a national network is established, with more formal communication networks and links agreed.
    
3. These networks/groups may have been running for several years before becoming more fully established before the decision is made to contact the Specialist Sections Officer at COT to formally consider applying for Specialist Sections status.

 
SIGs that wish to be considered for Specialist Section status must work with the Specialist Sections Officer.