Every year, the Royal College of Occupational Therapy (RCOT) celebrates excellence in Occupational Therapy. These awards recognise a member’s significant achievements and contributions to the profession. We are pleased to share that in 2024, the RCOT recognised the outstanding work of our very own Kath Smith, a founding Director of Ayres Sensory Integration Wise (ASI Wise).

The RCOT posted, “Kathryn Leigh Smith works as a Consultant Occupational Therapist and Director at ASI Wise and the Merlin Neuro Therapy Centre in Cornwall, where she specialises in Sensory Integration and Neurodevelopmental Therapy. Her many achievements include developing innovative sensory tools, leading national and delivering support for international research projects, as well as creating educational pathways to support OTs in integrating sensory approaches into services for all, including mental health and neurodiverse populations across the lifespan. She said of her recognition: ‘Receiving this award is an incredible honour, recognising my dedication to advancing occupational therapy through Ayres Sensory Integration. I’m committed to continuing innovative practice and education to support all the people we work to support, improving participation and wellbeing across the lifespan.” (OTnews October 2024 pg 36-39) Read More

A few words from Kath following the RCOT publishing this wonderful News;

I am honoured to receive an RCOT Merit Award 2024. This recognition reflects the collaborative efforts of so many in the mental health and other services I have worked, occupational therapy, and broader sensory integration communities, both here in the UK and around the world.

I am grateful for the ongoing support and shared knowledge from colleagues across the globe, SIGN Sensory Integration Global Network, Collaborative for Leadership in Ayres Sensory Integration – CLASI SAISI Page – South African Institute for Sensory Integration and International Council for Education in Ayres Sensory Integration – Official alongside contributions from past and present people who have used Sensory Ladders and Spiders in their everyday lives. Their insights and dedication have helped shape my work and ideas. Together, we continue to advance care, making a real difference in people’s lives.

Thank you to the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, Merlin – Cornwall’s Neuro Therapy Centre and ASI Wise’s awesome team – and to everyone who has been part of this journey. I look forward to continuing our work together.

#RCOTAwards2024 #OccupationalTherapy #ProfessionalCommunity #Collaboration #SensoryIntegration

Kathryn Smith | 2024 RCOT Award Winner | a founding Director of ASI Wise | ICE-ASI

Two of our Board of Directors have the following kind words to share following this wonderful news;

We have been privileged to work, lecture, and participate in research alongside Kath for over 20 years. We are delighted that RCOT have recognised her professionalism, 24/7 unwavering commitment to occupational therapy, which includes international collaboration in delivering innovative Post Graduate Education in Ayres’ Sensory Integration.

Kath has been instrumental in creating the evidence and pushing forward the understanding and frontiers in Occupational Therapy and SI across the lifespan and, in particular, related to Adult Mental Health and Trauma, at home and internationally   

The subtle and inclusive way that Kath supports and champions others who, depending on life circumstances, may not have had the opportunity and/or resources to participate in everyday life; this has been at the core of her nomination for the RCOT merit award by her colleagues and friends.  

Ros Urwin and Amanda Adamson | Occupational Therapists,  Directors ASI-Wise 

Hear what other colleagues have said in light of this excellent news;

Congratulations to Kath on her merit award from RCOT, carrying the ASI flag high … we are inspired by you and honoured to be in your space

Gina Rencken | ICE-ASI Chair Person

Here at the ASI Wise team we are so proud of you, Kath, for being recognised by the Royal College of Occupational Therapy for your contributions to our profession pionnerring the value of Ayres Sensory Integration accross the lifespan and diverse environments. Your passion and commitment to gentle teaching, coaching and mentoring, sharing your knowledge, skills and expertise really shines to the wonderful Occupational Therapist you are.

The ASI Wise Leadership Operational Team | Education Team | Customer Care Team

Kath’s dedication and hard work to field of Sensory integraon educaon is to be greatly admired. She is reless in promong this to Occupaonal Therapists and ensuring that the clients and patients are at the centre of any intervenon that will enhance their daily lives. This is crucial and Kath sees this as the vital outcome of training in this field.

Dr John Cathcart D Med Sc, MSc, PgD, PgCHEP, DCR® , FHEA. | Associate Head of School | School of Health Sciences | Ulster University.

” I am extremely grateful for the impact that Kath has had on my life and that of many others. I feel honoured to know her.”

David Phyall | Former Trustee and Client Merlin Neuro Therapy Centre (David supported Kath’s nominated in September 2023. David , sadly passed away in January 2024)

Wow! Our Consultant Occupational Therapist Kath Smith has been honoured in this year’s Royal College of Occupational Therapists Fellowship and Merit Awards. Congratulations Kath, our charity is beyond lucky to have your support, knowledge and dedication.

All the team at the Merlin Neuro Therapy Centre