Ann-Marie Morrissey, Vice President Administration recently represented COTEC at the EuroHealthNet Annual Seminar and General Meeting, held from the 11th to 13th of June 2025 in Brussels, Belgium.
EuroHealthNet is a leading partnership that includes organisations, institutes, and authorities working on public health, disease prevention, promoting health and wellbeing, and reducing inequalities. COTEC joined EuroHealthNet last year as both a Practice and Policy Associate Member, demonstrating our clear commitment to raising the profile of Occupational Therapy within European public health policy and practice.
As part of this active engagement COTEC representation firstly attended their Annual Seminar entitled ‘Climate Change and Health’ which took place on June 11th. The Seminar explored in depth the health and health equity impact of climate change. There was an array of excellent speakers from diverse backgrounds. The take home messages in relation to Occupational Therapy included the urgent need for sustainable practice, the need for awareness and resources for working with people directly affected by climate change, the imminent changing face of practice and the increased presentation of clients due to more extreme weather. The speakers focused on opportunities to drive positive change, supported by direct and clear policy. For more information and for copies of the presentations please visit this webpage https://eurohealthnet.eu/publication/eurohealthnet-annual-seminar-2025-climate-change-and-health/
The General Meeting also produced fruitful learning for COTEC. A key theme discussed was that of the ‘well-being’ economy. This is a vision for an economy where economic growth is not a goal in itself but rather a way to increase the well-being of people and the planet. While the concept is gaining traction, the transition to this type of economy has many challenges. Existing interests, established structures and creating the will for change are all significant challenges. It is imperative that the voice of all healthcare practitioners is part of these discussions, as our work is essential in shaping any well-being economy.
It was clear from discussions that health is slipping down the political agenda in Europe. There is a clear need for collective leadership to prioritise health equity and remind leaders and institutions that health is not a luxury. A key message from the event was the need for deeper engagement in European policy development. While raising visibility for Occupational Therapy is essential, influence is the next crucial step.
EuroHealthNet launched their Annual Report which captures their commitment and collective strength to promote health, equity and wellbeing throughout Europe. For more information on the Annual Report 2024/2025 please click https://eurohealthnet.eu/publication/united-for-health-equity-staying-anchored-in-challenging-times-eurohealthnet-annual-report-2024-2025/
This experience has sparked vital reflection within the COTEC Executive Committee on how we, together with our members, can expand our impact at the European level and help shape policies that align with our profession’s values and expertise.
