Head of Service for Occupational Therapy, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne Hospitals NHS Trust & Chair, Royal College of Occupational Therapists

What does it look like to lead with purpose, replenish yourself honestly, and commit to leaving a profession better than you found it? In this episode of Social Workers Matter, Sylvia sits down with the remarkable Odeth Richardson, a trailblazing occupational therapist, published poet, and senior leader, for a conversation that is as warm and wise as it is professionally rich.

From her childhood in Jamaica, where staying occupied with chores and daily activities was simply a way of life, to becoming the first Black Chair of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, Odeth's journey is one of accidental leadership, intentional mentorship, and hard-won self-knowledge.

IN THIS EPISODE

What occupational therapy actually is, and why it's one of the most powerful tools for reducing inequality.

The mentor who changed everything, and how Odeth now pays that forward.

Stepping down to step up, the courageous decision to prioritise self-care over duty.

Leading 36,000 occupational therapists across four nations, and doing it as a proud introvert.

Poetry, baking, dancing — how Odeth truly replenishes herself

The book, celebrating 'Caribbean perspectives in occupational therapy', has been three years in the making

A live reading of Odeth's poem Like a Phoenix, inspired by Maya Angelou

One of the most moving moments in this episode comes when Odeth reflects on stepping down as Chair of the Race Equality Staff Network after a decade of service. It wasn't failure, it was wisdom. She recognised that an empty cup cannot nourish others, and that the self-compassion she championed for colleagues had to begin with herself. It's a lesson that will resonate deeply with anyone working in the caring professions.

Odeth also speaks candidly about the uneven distribution of stretch opportunities in the NHS, and why equity in development matters as much as equity in hiring. Her commitment to mentoring, whether through the Elizabeth Casson Trust, the Caribbean Writers Network, or her role as trustee at the Great North Children's Hospital Foundation, speaks to a leader who understands that legacy is built in people, not positions.

GUEST

Odeth Richardson

Head of Service for OT, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne Hospitals · Chair, Royal College of Occupational Therapists, Poet, Author of 'Reflections of an Island Girl'.

If this episode moved you, share it with a colleague. And if you're a social worker, OT, or anyone working in health and care who sometimes forgets to fill their own cup, this one's for you.

Reflections of an Island Girl by Odeth Richardson is available at Amazon here

https://amzn.eu/d/07Fv7TGV

• Do share your feedback at: [email protected]
• Follow us on social media:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/412169436067530
• Subscribe and leave a review to help us reach more listeners!
• Join us and remember—social workers matter!
• Website: www.inclinetrainingconsultants.co