Career of care recognised with national award
A University of Bradford academic has been given a national award for his work in occupational therapy.
Dr Rob Brooks, Head of School of Allied Health Professions, Midwifery and Social Work, received a Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) Merit Award for his outstanding contribution to the profession over more than 25 years.
His award letter recognised Dr Brooks’ work as an ‘outstanding educator, researcher and leader’ in occupational therapy, who are healthcare professionals who help people experiencing physical, cognitive, or sensory difficulties to participate in daily life tasks.
He said: “I am delighted to receive the Merit Award. It feels valuing to be recognised by my peers and colleagues.
“It is good to see the other people who have been recognised with a Merit Award and have collectively contributed to the development of the profession.”
More on Dr Brooks
Dr Brooks started as an occupational therapist in 1997, working with children, young people and families in the UK and New Zealand. He joined the University of Bradford in 2022.
His research has included on children with mental health difficulties or who are neuro divergent.
Dr Brooks, who joined Bradford in 2022, supports other Universities across the UK, helping to carry out reviews of their occupational therapy programmes.
He is involved with ‘Pathways to Wellness’, the University of Bradford’s 12-week programme of physiotherapy, occupational therapy and workplace support, which helps treat NHS and social care staff who are experiencing health-related challenges which affect their ability to work.
He was also pleased with feedback on his BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy programme in the 2025 National Student Survey (NSS), with a 93 per cent score for its teaching and 94 per cent for its academic support.
Dr Brooks co-authored ‘A Guide to the Formulation of Plans and Goals in Occupational Therapy’, a book which helps occupational therapists turn complex assessments into clear, practical plans to support people in improving their daily lives.
What are the Merit Awards?
Dr Brooks is one of 12 people to receive a 2025 Merit Award, recognising the achievements RCOT members have made at any stage of their career.
The RCOT also awards Fellowships each year, the highest honour the organisation gives to recognise recipients’ exceptional service and outstanding contribution to occupational therapy.
Odeth Richardson, RCOT Chair, said: “Congratulations to all our Fellowship and Merit Award winners. Each of you has made an incredible contribution to our profession in your own unique way.
Your innovation, commitment, best practice and perseverance, across careers, specialisms and settings, showcases the breadth and depth of our diverse and impactful workforce
Dr Brooks' achievement reflects the University of Bradford’s strategic commitment to health and wellbeing, research-informed teaching, and regional impact.
Dr Brooks’ work, spanning education, research, and clinical innovation, embodies our mission to deliver transformative healthcare solutions and support the workforce through initiatives like Pathways to Wellness. His leadership strengthens our reputation as a hub for allied health excellence and student satisfaction.