Community Occupational Therapist: Home Adaptations

Cheshire West and Chester Council is seeking an experienced Occupational Therapist to support adults with disabilities and long-term conditions by assessing needs for equipment, adaptations, and rehabilitation interventions to maximise independence and promote safe living within the community. The role involves working closely with clients, carers, Housing, NHS services, architects, Home Improvement Agencies, and voluntary organisations to deliver effective adaptations, equipment provision, and rehabilitation outcomes in line with assessed needs and available resources.

Main Duties

• Complete Occupational Therapy assessments for adults with disabilities and long-term health conditions to identify needs for equipment and property adaptations.
• Assess the nature and extent of adaptations required in relation to diagnosis, prognosis, and functional ability.
• Provide information, advice, and guidance to clients and carers regarding equipment, adaptations, and available services.
• Carry out discharge assessments for clients returning home from hospital, residential, or nursing care settings and arrange equipment provision to facilitate safe discharge.
• Liaise with external agencies including Housing, NHS teams, charities, Home Improvement Agencies, and voluntary organisations to secure funding and coordinate service delivery.
• Review and approve adaptation plans in partnership with architects, Housing Departments, and clients to ensure appropriate outcomes are achieved.
• Negotiate with clients and partner agencies regarding suitable adaptation solutions while considering budgetary requirements.
• Undertake follow-up visits to ensure completed adaptations meet assessed needs and provide additional equipment where required.
• Assess for and arrange specialist equipment provision to reduce the impact of disability and improve independence.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of Occupational Therapy equipment, moving and handling techniques, and wider professional developments.
• Provide guidance and support to care staff regarding moving and handling practices and safe equipment use.
• Identify clients with rehabilitation potential and refer to relevant rehabilitation or specialist services as appropriate.
• Ensure all interventions are delivered in accordance with council policies, statutory responsibilities, and professional standards.

Requirements

• HCPC Registered Occupational Therapist.
• Experience within community Occupational Therapy, adaptations, equipment provision, or housing-related services.
• Strong assessment and care planning skills with a person‑centred approach.
• Knowledge of moving and handling practices and risk assessment.
• Experience working collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams and external partner agencies.
• Understanding of Disabled Facilities Grants, adaptation processes, and equipment provision pathways.
• Ability to manage a varied caseload and support safe hospital discharge planning.