14. Housing, Mentoring & an Ancient Charity | Kate Sheehan FRCOT & Housing Design Specialist.

Kate Sheehan⁠ has been an Occupational Therapist for nearly four decades, and her passion for housing as a cornerstone of health and wellbeing shines through every part of her career.In this episode, Kate shares remarkable stories - from her early days in London where she encountered homes without indoor plumbing, to powerful cultural lessons like supporting a grandmother who was trying to use a Western toilet in the only way she knew how. Her “Chicken Story” has become legendary in OT circles, showing how listening deeply to what matters most to clients can transform recovery and motivation.Kate reflects on her leadership in shaping housing policy, her influential role in the Royal College Specialist Section in Housing, and her frustration at its recent closure. She also opens up about her current charity work in Stratford-upon-Avon, providing homes for those most in need and tackling centuries-old housing endowments with modern compassion.We discuss her mentoring of OTs moving into private practice, her collaborations with companies, and how she continues to advocate tirelessly for accessible housing across the UK. Despite changes in professional structures, her message is clear: never stop networking, seizing opportunities, and telling the real stories of OT’s impact.Kate’s joy for the profession, her belief in the power of housing, and her unshakable energy will inspire every OT listening - whether you’re just starting out or decades into your career.Connect with ⁠Kate on Linkedin⁠ and follow the work of her private practice KS Occupational Therapy Services.***I’d love to hear what you think of this episode - your feedback helps shape future episodes. If you know of a healthcare professional with a powerful story to share, I’d love to connect. Drop me an email at ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠.If you like what you’ve heard I’d be really grateful if you could share it with your friends and on social media.Thanks so much for listening and supporting the show!⁠Martina