Occupational Therapy Assistant

ESSEX PARTNERSHIP UNIVERSITY NHS FOUNDATION TRUST; Billericay; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional healthcare trust in Billericay is looking for a compassionate and motivated Senior Occupational Therapy Assistant to join the Older Adults Community Mental Health OT team. This role focuses on working with patients with cognitive impairment and complex health needs, helping them maintain their independence and quality of life. Responsibilities include supporting therapy staff, carrying out interventions, and facilitating group activities. Attractive benefits including generous holiday allowance and excellent pension are offered.

Benefits

27 days holiday, rising to 33 days after 10 years

Excellent pension up to 14.5%

Staff discounts

£8k relocation package

Flexible working from day one

Qualifications

• Experience in supporting therapy staff and implementing treatment programmes.
• Ability to engage and develop rapport with clients.
• Familiarity with mental health services and patient confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• Support therapy staff in implementing treatment programmes.
• Facilitate group activities directed by senior therapists.
• Observe and report on clients' responses to activities.

Skills

Compassion

Motivation

Communication

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a compassionate and motivated Senior Occupational Therapy Assistant to join our Older Adults Community Mental Health OT team. The position involves working with patients in the community setting and as part of the Day Treatment Team, focusing on individuals with cognitive impairment, dementia, and complex mental or physical health needs to maintain independence, safety and quality of life.

Responsibilities

• Support therapy staff in the implementation of treatment programmes.
• Carry out one-to-one and group interventions as directed by senior therapy staff.
• Plan and facilitate group activities as directed by senior therapists.
• Develop rapport with clients to encourage their interest in skills.
• Be aware of individual patient needs through communication with therapy staff.
• Observe general behaviour, ability and response of clients to activities.
• Be aware of situations that may make clients vulnerable or at risk.
• Report any concerns immediately to senior therapy staff.
• Respect clients' choices and confidentiality at all times.
• Record interventions in an agreed format.

Working for Our Organisation

Valuing you. Recognising your dedication. At EPUT, we look after you.

• Receive supervision and support to help you fulfil your potential.
• Join an inclusive community and connect with others through engagement events and equality champion networks.
• Access mental health and wellbeing services, occupational health advice and counselling.
• Benefit from recognition awards that appreciate staff's hard work and dedication.

Benefits

• 27 days holiday, plus bank holidays, rising to 33 days after 10 years' service.
• Excellent pension up to 14.5% of pensionable pay.
• Staff discounts (Blue Light Card, NHS, etc.).
• £8k relocation package for moves to Essex.
• Season ticket loans interest-free for travel.
• Flexible working available from day one for most roles.

Other Requirements

Include professional references with business contact information covering your last three years of employment. Personal or character references are not accepted.

Applicants must provide evidence of COVID vaccination in accordance with the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) (Amendment) (Coronavirus) Regulations 2021, unless exempt.

Applicants will be required to carry out a DBS check, with the cost deducted from the first salary.

Equal Opportunities

Our Trust is an Equal Opportunities Employer. We welcome applications from people with experience of using mental health services, from those with disabilities, and from veterans. If you require this application form in another format (Braille, audio tape, etc.), contact the Recruitment Department.