Occupational therapy and job retention: supporting clients, supporting employers

Occupation is a term that has many definitions and interpretations within occupational therapy literature but, within most of the general population, has come to be synonymous with 'employment'. Occupational therapists have a key role to play in helping someone maintain employment or change jobs without becoming unemployed first. Early intervention in such situations is crucial and involves a range of knowledge and skills. This article considers the importance of job retention, assessing the situation, understanding the employer's perspective as well as the client's, and the role of an occupational therapist as case manager, coordinating and liaising with all those involved.