Senior Occupational Therapist (or Band 5/6 development post)

NHS; Cleator Moor; Hybrid; GBP 31,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare provider in Copeland is looking for a Senior Occupational Therapist for its community rehabilitation team. This full-time position offers an exciting opportunity to manage a defined caseload while working alongside a multidisciplinary team. The role emphasizes patient-centered care and includes the potential for professional development to Band 6 status. Suitable candidates must hold a relevant degree and have experience working autonomously, providing effective supervision, and engaging in audits. A comprehensive compensation package is offered, including flexible working options.

Benefits

Professional development support

Flexible working patterns

Comprehensive benefits package

Qualifications

• Post‑registration clinical experience with autonomous working.
• Demonstrated initiative, time‑management and prioritisation skills.
• Evidence of continuing professional development (CPD).

Responsibilities

• Provide specialist assessment and rehabilitation to patients.
• Deliver care that prevents hospital admissions.
• Engage with community services to promote high‑quality care.

Skills

Ability to work autonomously and set own priorities

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Effective teamwork and relationship building

Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities

Professional ethics and confidentiality

Education

BSc (Hons) in Occupational Therapy

Registration with the Health Professions Council

Tools

WORD

EXCEL

Job description

Go back North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust

Senior Occupational Therapist (Band 5/6 development post)

The closing date is 25 January 2026

An exciting opportunity for an occupational therapist to work within the community rehabilitation therapy team at Copeland ICC. The post is full‑time (37.5 hours per week) and includes some evening and weekend working. Part‑time and flexible working patterns may be considered.

For a suitable Band 5 Occupational Therapist, this role offers the possibility of becoming a Band 6 with a supported action plan. The candidate will remain Band 5 while working towards completing the required competencies within 12 months.

The team comprises OTs, physiotherapists, HCP coordinators, APs, hub administrators, rehab assistants and home‑care practitioners. We work closely with a multidisciplinary team that includes district nurses, GP practices and other community services.

The post holder will manage a defined caseload of patients in community hospital wards, living in their own homes (including residential and nursing homes) and will use evidence‑based, client‑centred principles to assess, plan, implement and evaluate interventions while facilitating safe and efficient discharge planning. Leadership and supervision of staff and students within the team are also key responsibilities.

Job responsibilities

• Provide specialist assessment and rehabilitation to patients with a wide range of long and short‑term conditions. • Deliver care that prevents hospital admissions and facilitates early discharge. • Provide quality clinical supervision and support to junior staff and students. • Participate in audit, research and continuous professional development activities. • Engage with community services, agencies and professional bodies to promote high‑quality care.

Person Specification

Qualifications

• BSc (Hons) in Occupational Therapy or an equivalent qualification.
• Registration with the Health Professions Council.
• Evidence of continuing professional development (CPD).

Experience

• Post‑registration clinical experience with autonomous working.
• Demonstrated initiative, time‑management and prioritisation skills.
• Experience of extended‑role responsibilities and managing a multidisciplinary team.
• Experience of providing supervision to junior staff and students.
• Experience of audit and research processes and staff appraisal.
• Extensive clinical experience including individual and group work in a variety of settings.

Knowledge

• Specialist knowledge of occupational therapy assessments and interventions appropriate to the client group.
• Familiarity with occupational therapy outcome measures.
• Knowledge of therapeutic interventions and techniques within the clinical specialty.
• Understanding of evidence‑based practice and its application.
• Knowledge of NHS policies and current trends that influence service provision.
• Familiarity with relevant legislation, clinical governance and health and safety standards.
• Computer literacy including WORD, EXCEL and clinical databases.

Skills and Aptitudes

• Ability to work autonomously and set own priorities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Capacity to supervise, train and appraise junior staff.
• Strong organizational and problem‑solving abilities.
• Effective teamwork and relationship building with multidisciplinary professionals.
• Capability to lead change and motivate staff in a dynamic environment.
• Professional ethics and confidentiality in practice.

Personal Circumstances

• Excellent communicator across multidisciplinary teams.
• Self‑motivated and proactive in professional development.
• Professional and motivated attitude towards patient care.
• Willingness to travel within the locality and potentially transport patients.
• Availability to work across seven days a week as required.

Other Requirements

• Current driving licence.
• A membership of a relevant professional body or special interest group.

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

The post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975. A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be required, with the cost deducted from salary.

Address

Copeland Community Rehabilitation Service

Salary

£31,049 – £46,580 per annum (pro‑rated)

Contract

Permanent

Working pattern

Full‑time, part‑time, flexible working, compressed hours

Reference number

262‑A‑24‑6720528‑G

Job location

Copeland Community Rehabilitation Service