Julia Scott

Julia started her career as an Occupational therapist in the NHS and subsequently went on to work with GPs and Practice nurses on a Heart Attack and Stroke Prevention project.  Having moved into social care, Julia’s career has developed across a variety of roles and in 2001 she was seconded to the Department of Health to complete policy guidelines relating to Integrated Community Equipment Services.  Prior to joining the Royal College, Julia was Head of Disability services at Kensington and Chelsea Social Services in London, managing a range of social care services.

Julia was Chief Executive of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists from 2006 to 2021. During this time the organisation achieved Royal status, significantly increased its profile with a range of stakeholders and membership grew to its highest number. She led the organisation through both governance and structural reviews and supported closer working with other Allied Health Professionals and Social Work.    

Julia was awarded an Honorary Fellowship from Brunel University in 2006 in recognition of her contribution to undergraduate Occupational Therapy education and previously taught a Quality Assurance module at the University. In March 2011, Julia was awarded a prestigious Social Care Fellowship from the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE).  Julia is one of only 6 recipients of this Fellowship. In March 2016, Julia was awarded an inaugural Fellowship from Skills For Care, in recognition of her leadership and support of the social care workforce.

Julia is now a Trustee of Age UK, a Strategic Advisor for Healthcomms Consulting and a mentor for other Allied Health Professionals and is greatly looking forward to applying her experience to the work of the Barchester’s Charitable Foundation Board.