At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct assessments for individuals with disabilities to enhance their quality of life and independence.
- Company: Join Southwark Council, dedicated to supporting vulnerable adults and promoting social inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, professional development opportunities, and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while working in a collaborative and impactful setting.
- Qualifications: Relevant qualifications in occupational therapy and experience with diverse client needs are essential.
- Other info: Opportunity to lead and mentor others while expanding your skills in a dynamic role.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
PURPOSE OF THE JOB Working within a multi-disciplinary team the occupational therapist will carry out assessments for older people, adults with disabilities and disabled children to meet the principles of the Care Act 2014. You will assess the needs of people living with a disability and give advice or make recommendations that improve wellbeing and quality of life, maximising independence and supporting carers.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES
- To visit people with disabilities at home or in their permanent residence carrying out an occupational therapy assessment incorporating daily living skills, carer support, social situation and environmental barriers.
- To maintain a comprehensive knowledge of commercially available products in order to appropriately recommend the provision of suitable equipment, assistive technology and telecare solutions for disabled people.
- To follow through the provision of equipment, assistive technology and telecare, fitting this where necessary, and teaching techniques of use to client, carers and other relevant professionals.
- To research and analyse the suitability, cost, safety and effectiveness of equipment and adaptations.
- To ensure that family and paid carers can offer personal care safely through assessing manual handling, use of equipment to improve safety and giving advice and guidance to family carers and paid care supervisors.
- To determine necessary adaptations to clients homes and arrange for these to be carried out in liaison with professionals from a range of disciplines. To advise clients who are having alterations done privately.
- To monitor and respond to clients’ needs in changing circumstances, including anticipating and responding to the effects of certain degenerative medical conditions.
- To assess client’s needs for rehousing on disability grounds (including to sheltered housing or part III accommodation), advising on the availability of suitable property/accommodation. To escort clients to view potential dwellings.
- To make appropriate referrals to other professionals and service providers and to advise Departmental residential and day care units. To support the assessment of new users and implementation of individual programme plans, that promote wellbeing and ensure maintenance of clients’ quality of life.
- To advise and work with other Council Departments on the design and planning of new buildings and facilities for disabled people and people with mobility and sensory needs.
- To promote access to paid employment, training, rehabilitation, social and leisure opportunities as part of promoting each person’s independence and social inclusion, and to work with local and community groups to make them welcoming and accessible to disabled people.
- To ensure that services are provided in accordance with current departmental policies, guidelines and practice statements. To implement strategies to combat discrimination.
- To supervise Assistant Practitioners or students and students of other disciplines as required.
- To teach professional skills to relevant departmental staff and external professionals as required.
JOB CONTEXT This post is in the Older People and People with Disabilities Service. The post reports to a senior member of the team with clinical support available from a senior OT or OT team manager. Southwark council is committed to supporting vulnerable adults to achieve independence and social inclusion via personal budgets and professional OT support including recommendations for suitable accommodation, equipment, assistive technology, and housing adaptations. The post holder is expected to provide leadership and expert practice across the team to achieve these aims. The post holder will be expected to expand and develop their skills relating to:
- Assessment of children and adults with complex disability
- Disability equipment and moving and handling techniques and equipment
- Housing adaptations
- Assistive technologies
- Safeguarding
The post holder is expected to provide a proactive approach which encompasses these goals and sets out to achieve the aims and objectives of the Council.
Occupational Therapist ( Project ) employer: Pertemps Education Network
Contact Detail:
Pertemps Education Network Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Occupational Therapist ( Project )
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the field of occupational therapy. Attend local workshops, seminars, or conferences to meet others who work in similar roles. This can help you gain insights into the job market and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the Care Act 2014 and its implications for occupational therapy practice. Understanding the legal framework will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to the role during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Gain practical experience by volunteering or shadowing an occupational therapist. This hands-on experience will provide you with valuable insights into daily responsibilities and challenges, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest assistive technologies and equipment available for disabled individuals. Being knowledgeable about current products will allow you to make informed recommendations and show your expertise in the field.
We think you need these skills to ace Occupational Therapist ( Project )
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Occupational Therapist position. Familiarise yourself with the Care Act 2014 and how it relates to the role.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant experience in occupational therapy, particularly with older people and individuals with disabilities. Include specific examples of assessments you've conducted and any assistive technologies or adaptations you've recommended.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for improving the quality of life for disabled individuals. Mention your understanding of the principles of independence and social inclusion, and how your skills align with the job's principal accountabilities.
Showcase Continuous Learning: Mention any ongoing professional development or training related to occupational therapy, especially in areas like housing adaptations, assistive technologies, or safeguarding. This shows your commitment to staying updated in the field.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pertemps Education Network
✨Understand the Care Act 2014
Familiarise yourself with the principles of the Care Act 2014, as this will be central to your role. Be prepared to discuss how you would apply these principles in your assessments and recommendations for clients.
✨Showcase Your Assessment Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully carried out assessments for individuals with disabilities. Highlight your approach to identifying needs and recommending suitable solutions.
✨Knowledge of Equipment and Technology
Brush up on your knowledge of assistive technology and equipment available for disabled individuals. Be ready to discuss specific products and how they can improve clients' quality of life.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration
Since you'll be working within a multi-disciplinary team, think of examples that showcase your ability to collaborate effectively with other professionals. Discuss how you would communicate and coordinate with colleagues to ensure comprehensive care for clients.