The Gender & Sexuality in Occupational Therapy Advisory Group (GSOTAG), is a newly established group of Occupational Therapists from a range of professional contexts, who have a common practice interest in this area.

Increasingly, Occupational Therapists throughout Ireland are working with clients on issues relating to their gender identity, sexuality or sexual functioning. This takes place across multiple practice areas, including mental health services, acute care settings, primary care, physical rehabilitation and intellectual disability services. Gender and sexuality also remain relevant when working with people across the age spectrum, from children and adolescents to adults and older people.

The GSOTAG aims to generate further conversation, resources and expertise in this area, and in doing so, to support our members, promote best practice, and influence relevant policies at all levels.

The GSOTAG were involved in producing the AOTI's 2019 publication 'LGBT+ Awareness and Good Practice Guidelines for Occupational Therapists, which is available to download for all here. 

• Collaborate with AOTI on emerging issues and policy development, and act as a resource on any relevant matters or queries.
• Highlight to AOTI possible opportunities for development within the profession.
• Unite and support Occupational Therapists from all professional contexts, who have an interest or learning need in this area.
• Promote evidence-based practice in this area for all Occupational Therapists, thereby ensuring the service user’s experience is of the highest quality.
• Promote the role and skills of Occupational Therapists, in the areas of gender & sexuality, for clients who have specific needs in this area.
• Identify the learning needs of our group members and provide CPD opportunities through educational events and study days to meet these needs.