Deborah Harrison, TOTS Moving and Handling Lead, awarded Honorary Fellowship by RCOT

The Occupational Therapy Service (TOTS) is proud to announce its Moving and Handling Lead, Deborah Harrison, has been awarded an Honorary Fellowship by the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT).

An RCOT Honorary Fellowship is the highest accolade that can be awarded to a healthcare professional that is not an occupational therapist. As a rare and prestigious award, it officially recognises remarkable achievements, in their specific field of clinical expertise, that have helped drive innovation in occupational therapy practice. Through a holistic approach to moving and handling training, which synergises with the principles of occupational therapy, Deborah Harrison has achieved this award.

On receipt of this news Deborah said:

“Receiving an Honorary Fellowship from the RCOT is an immense and deeply meaningful honour for me. I accept it on behalf of the occupational therapists and colleagues who have supported me by advancing research and systemic change through Optimal-Handed Care. This recognition celebrates everyone who believes passionately in the power of person-centred care using the Optimal-Handed Care approach to transform lives and improve services.”

For more than 25 years, Deborah has been shaping the future of moving and handling people across health and social care. A registered nurse by background, she has worked across acute hospitals, community services, local authorities and the independent care sector before becoming one of the country’s most influential educators, researchers and innovators in the field. Her work has helped transform the way organisations assess, plan and deliver moving and handling, influencing practice at both local and national level.

Samantha Shann, TOTS co-director, fully congratulates her valued colleague:

“An incredibly well-deserved honour Deborah.  Your passion, leadership and commitment to transforming care through Optimal-Handed Care continues to inspire many and make a real difference to people’s lives. So proud to see you recognised with this RCOT Honorary Fellowship!”

Adam Ferry, fellow co-director, is equally enthused. He adds:

“The Honorary Fellowship Award is testament to Deborah’s dedication to improving service provision within health and social care.  She has supported many occupational therapy teams through training, strategic and operational support with a focus on optimal handling, becoming synonymous with quality and lasting input. We’re truly delighted for her, and thrilled that Deborah now continues that journey with TOTS.”

As Deborah reflects on her award, kudos surrounding the announcement will raise awareness of how outcomes can be enhanced by combining different clinical disciplines. As Deborah strives ahead leading the moving and handling training at TOTS, she will be implementing this integrated approach. She concludes by saying:

“I remain committed to supporting and encouraging others to develop their practice and improve outcomes for society’s most vulnerable people through meaningful research, education, and the wider adoption of Optimal-Handed Care across the UK and beyond.”

To book a Moving ad Handing Training session click here or call: 0333 444 0062