Exploring occupational therapists’ experiences in cross-cultural practice with Somali service users: A participatory approach to enhancing accessibility and cultural relevance

Abstract

Background: Research in occupational therapy that engages both the perspectives of therapists and service users from the Somali community in the United Kingdom is limited. While occupational therapy is acknowledging its Eurocentric foundations, efforts are underway to adapt its models of practice to better suit cross-cultural contexts. Aim: To explore occupational therapists’ experiences in working cross-culturally with Somali service users. Methodology: A participatory research approach was used. Six virtual online World Cafés were conducted, with a total of 120 therapists participating. Data were analysed using template analysis. Findings: Three key themes emerged: (1) Accessing occupational therapy – highlighting the need to reach people and effectively communicate occupational therapy’s role, (2) cultural relevance of occupational therapy – highlighting the need for culturally congruent interventions and (3) from cultural (in)competence to cultural humility – highlighting the importance of diverse occupational therapy teams and the need to develop confidence in culturally humble practice. Conclusion: Occupational therapists must critically examine their use of language, terminology, identity and professional culture, as these elements may inadvertently hinder equitable access for diverse populations. This paper calls for continuous efforts to make occupational therapy practices more inclusive and accessible.