At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals with mental health challenges to achieve their goals and promote independent living.
- Company: Join the Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust, a leader in community mental health.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, professional development, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace that values your unique background and insights.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while gaining valuable experience in mental health.
- Qualifications: Experience in supporting mental health or a related field is preferred.
The predicted salary is between 26159 - 31972 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Band 4 Occupational Therapy Assistant within Community Mental Health as follows:
- 0.80 x WTE supporting the South Ribble Community Mental Health Teams
- The posts will be for a fixed term/secondment opportunity for a 12 month period
This exciting opportunity has arisen as part of an initiative to look at how increasing access to Occupational Therapy intervention can support capacity and flow within Community Mental Health Teams. As such, we are looking for a dynamic and proactive person with a proven track record of supporting people with mental health difficulties to achieve their occupational goals.
You will work alongside Occupational Therapists to facilitate planned interventions which may include, but not be limited to:
- Promoting independent living skills in the areas of self-care, productivity and leisure
- Enabling social inclusion
- Supporting people to create effective routines and structure
- Providing education on the importance of meaningful activity in promoting mental health and wellbeing
You would be expected to work independently within service users' homes and the local community. The Community Mental Health Teams provide community based assessment, care planning and intervention to people experiencing moderate to severe mental health problems. The team's core hours are Monday - Friday 9am-5pm.
You will work alongside Occupational Therapists within the team and will be part of a wider Occupational Therapy network across Central and West Lancs CMHTs. This is a supportive network that provides opportunity for CPD and supports staff wellbeing.
This vacancy would be an ideal development opportunity for a current Band 3 therapy assistant or a Band 4 therapy assistant seeking experience in a community setting. Full support and training will be provided and you will have access to regular supervision and CPD opportunities.
Timely occupational therapy (assessment and) interventions can:
- Prevent unnecessary hospital admissions
- Improve wellbeing and patient experience
- Facilitate early discharge
- Enable recovery and social inclusion
- Help people achieve personalised goals
- Support adults of working age to retain their jobs or obtain employment
Working directly with service users for at least 70% of the time, this post holder will support occupational therapists to achieve this aim through supporting the assessment and analysis of strengths and needs, providing interventions, reporting on progress, and supporting service users to achieve their personal goals and aspirations.
Service requirements may involve some flexibility of work hours and the post holder is expected to respond to service user need relating to this.
LSCFT values diversity and inclusion, recognising that talent from varied backgrounds creates a flexible, creative, and effective workforce. We actively challenge discrimination and welcome applications from all, regardless of age, disability (including those with experience of accessing or caring for someone who has accessed mental health or learning disability services), ethnicity, gender, religion, belief, or sexual orientation.
Our aim is to reflect the communities we serve, so we particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups. If you'd like to discuss your application, please ask.
We also welcome individuals with lived experience relevant to the role or service area, as your insight brings authenticity to our services.
LSCFT supports flexible working; we believe that a positive work/life balance benefits NHS employees through improved health and wellbeing. We would consider working patterns such as term time, part time, compressed hours and flexi-time.
The wellbeing of our people is at the heart of everything we do. We offer a wide range of resources, tools and support to help you thrive both in and out of work.
Please see attached the job description and person specification for more information about this role.
Occupational Therapy Assistant | Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust in Preston employer: Allscreens Nationwide Ltd
Allscreens Nationwide is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive team culture where employees are valued and encouraged to thrive. With access to state-of-the-art training facilities and opportunities for career progression, our Automotive Glazing Technicians in Birmingham can expect not only competitive bonuses but also the chance to work with the latest technology in the industry. Join us and be part of a company that prioritises both employee well-being and customer satisfaction.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Occupational Therapy Assistant | Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust in Preston
✨Get Involved in Local Mental Health Initiatives
We all know that networking in the therapy and counselling field can lead to great opportunities. Look out for local mental health awareness events, workshops, or support groups. These are perfect spots to meet potential employers and other professionals who might help open doors for you.
✨Leverage Online Therapy Platforms
Many temporary counselling roles pop up on platforms like BetterHelp or Talkspace. Make sure your profile is top-notch so when clients or employers are browsing, you'll stand out. Plus, showing engagement in this space can really elevate your visibility!
✨Tap into University Career Services
If you're currently studying or recently graduated, don’t ignore your university's career services. They often have great connections to temporary roles in therapy that aren't advertised widely. Plus, they can help you prepare for those all-important interviews!
✨Check Out Local Agencies and Consultancies
Temporary roles in therapy often get filled through agencies that specialise in healthcare staffing. Make a list of local counselling agencies and reach out – a simple email expressing your interest can go a long way. Remember, most agencies appreciate candidates who proactively seek out opportunities!
We think you need these skills to ace Occupational Therapy Assistant | Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust in Preston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Practical Experience:When applying for a temporary role in therapy or counselling, we need to see your practical experience front and centre. Include details of any placement experiences, internships, or voluntary work in your CV. Make sure to mention specific techniques or therapies you’re familiar with—this shows your readiness to jump in and make an impact!
Showcase Your Approach:In your cover letter, take a moment to explain your therapeutic approach and what methodologies you’re passionate about. This is your chance to connect your personal style with the values of Allscreens Nationwide Ltd. Temporary roles often require a quick adjustment; helping them understand your philosophy will assure them you're a good fit!
Be Flexible and Open-Ended:Since this is a temporary position, emphasise your flexibility in your application. Highlight that you're eager to take on varying responsibilities or adapt your style to different clients’ needs. It's a huge plus for potential employers who want someone who can slide effortlessly into their team.
Certifications Matter!:Don’t forget to include any relevant certifications or trainings in your application documents. Specific qualifications like a Diploma in Counselling or any accredited workshops/additional training can set you apart. Ensure these are listed clearly in your CV, as they illustrate your commitment to your professional development and the field itself.
How to prepare for a job interview at Allscreens Nationwide Ltd
✨Show Your Empathy Skills
In the therapy and counselling field, showcasing your empathy and interpersonal skills is crucial. Prepare to share specific examples from your past experiences where you've demonstrated this, whether in volunteer work, internships, or even personal scenarios.
✨Be Ready for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some real-world scenario questions where you might need to outline how you'd handle specific client situations. Practise articulating your thought process and the interventions you would consider using, reflecting your understanding of various therapeutic approaches.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since you're aiming for a temporary role, be prepared to discuss your adaptability. Temporary positions often require quickly building rapport and adjusting to different client needs, so think of examples where you've successfully navigated changes or challenges in a work environment.
✨Prepare Your Personal Philosophy
Having a clear understanding of your therapeutic philosophy can set you apart. Be ready to share how your values and approach align with those of Allscreens Nationwide Ltd and why you're passionate about making a difference in clients' lives, even in a temporary position.
