occupational therapist United Kingdom
Job description
We are currently looking for an enthusiastic, experienced, innovative clinical specialist Occupational Therapist to join our established Neuro Rehabilitation team at Southend University Hospital.
The candidate will oversee, coordinate and develop the OT stroke/neurology service on a day to day basis. The post holder will provide specialist assessment, and intervention of acute stroke patients and consultancy across our medical wards for neurology patients while supporting a team of Band 5 and Band 6 OTs.
Our department operates an integrated therapy service, where Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists work alongside each other. The culture of multi-disciplinary working is well established and respected within the hospital. The team have very positive relationships with the consultants on the unit allowing accurate and effective assessment, treatment and discharge planning of patients. This position offers the opportunity to develop clinically and managerially in a fast paced environment working within our established Stroke Team.
The post is a full time permanent at 37.5 hours per week however part time hours and flexible working hours will be considered.
The successful candidate will provide clinical leadership and stroke specialist occupational therapy. You will manage a clinical caseload, completing specialist assessments, treatment sessions and discharge planning. You will take on operational responsibilities for the running of the OT team on a daily basis and lead on service development initiatives. You will offer clinical supervision and support to B5 and B6 therapists and therapy assistants. You will be supported by an 8a Therapy Team Lead.
Good time management and complex discharge planning skills are essential to this post, as well as excellent organisational skills, a flexible approach and an ability to problem solve. Effective interpersonal, leadership skills and management skills are also essential . It is a fast paced environment, where knowledge of thorough and complex assessments is needed. Discharge is supported via our local Early Supported Discharge Service, and bedded specialist stroke rehabilitation. We have strong links with these teams and throughout the stroke pathway.
The department is a 7 day working service and this post would be included in that with rest days in the following week. This is underpinned by a competency framework.
As one of the biggest trusts in the country the ambition of Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust is to deliver excellent local and specialist services, to improve the health and wellbeing of our patients, & provide a vibrant place for staff to develop, innovate and build careers.
Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust is now one of the largest in the country, with a workforce of approximately 15,000 who serve a population of 1.2 million people.
We work together, and in conjunction with MSE Health and Care Partnership, to deliver excellent local and specialist services, to improve the health and wellbeing of our patients in a compassionate way, and provide a respectful, but vibrant place for staff to develop, innovate and build careers.
From facilities through to consultant specialists we want to be the best, to achieve this we need to recruit not just those who are the finest in their field but also those who have the potential to be. Yes, experience is important but so is outlook – if you are dynamic, forward-thinking and enthusiastic we want you to join us.
We not only offer you a good working environment with flexible working opportunities, but also the opportunity to develop your career with access to appropriate training for your job and the support to succeed and progress
At Southend University Hospital we are committed to providing a supportive environment for the development of Occupational Therapists. We offer training and clinical development opportunities with a comprehensive in-service training program and regular clinical supervision. We also provide additional support in order for staff to attend recognised external courses including MSc studies and Advance practitioner modules.
As an occupational therapist at our organisation you will have access to our Clinical Lead Occupational therapist and practice development occupational therapist in addition to having access to our established in-service training program and support with CPD activities.
For full details about this varied and rewarding role, please see attached job description, but some of the responsibilities include
Main Responsibilities:
To plan, coordinate and evaluate the Occupational Therapy Service provided on a day-to-day basis.
To undertake a significant clinical caseload to a high professional standard, using specialist knowledge and skills from theoretical and practical experience.
To be responsible for supervision, education and assessment of Band 6 Occupational Therapists and to oversee the supervision and education of other more junior, support staff and student Occupational Therapists.
To undertake/lead evidence-based audit and research projects to develop and enhance personal and team’s clinical practice within their area; to make recommendations to Clinical Lead/Head of Service for changes to practice by the team; to implement specific changes to practice; to write and/or contribute to service protocols.
Undertakes comprehensive/ standardised Occupational Therapy assessments addressing occupational performance and skill deficits in the areas of self-maintenance, productivity and leisure.
Manages and accepts clinical responsibility for a caseload of patients, demonstrating ability to prioritise and delegate work to assistants when appropriate.
Works as an autonomous Occupational Therapist, being aware of the needs of others within the team.
Undertakes assessments of patient’s home environment and social situation to advise and implement provision of equipment and adaptations to gain maximal independence.
Supervises, teaches and evaluates junior and senior staff, assistants and students.
Communicates effectively through using written, verbal, non-verbal and listening skills.
Demonstrates effective and assertive behaviour in confrontational and moderately complex situations.
Ensure that Occupational Therapy treatment is based on theoretical knowledge and clinical reasoning skills are used to justify intervention and support own practice in routine situations.
Adheres to HCPC regulations and Royal College of Occupational Therapy professional code of conduct.
Acts in accordance with Staff Values and Behaviours.
Demonstrates CPD though participation in internal and external development opportunities, recording learning outcomes in portfolio.
Is aware of and implements Trust and Departmental Policies and Procedures
To be responsible for maintaining stock and using equipment and resources in a professional way
To be responsible for maintaining accurate and comprehensive patient treatment records in line with Occupational Therapists standards of practice
