At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to enhance the lives of individuals through innovative occupational therapy.
- Company: Join Cygnet Health Care, a leading provider in mental health services across the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, free meals, parking, and extensive professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a vibrant team dedicated to client-centred care and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while growing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Must be a registered Occupational Therapist with experience in mental health.
The predicted salary is between 35378 - 43240 £ per year.
Helping others improve and turn their lives around, there's no better feeling. It's what we do for thousands of people at more than 150 sites across the UK. Be a part of it.
Are you a motivated and enthusiastic Occupational Therapist ready to elevate your skills within a supportive and progressive team?
About Us
Cygnet Health Care was established in 1988 as an independent provider of health and social care services in England, Scotland and Wales.
Your role:
- Head Occupational Therapist (Fixed Term Contract Maternity leave cover)
- Working hours: 37.5 Hours per week
- Salary: £52,870 per year
- Contract duration: 1st November 2026 (for a period of 9-12 months)
- Service Line: Mental Health Adults Acute/ PICU
- Location: Cygnet Hospital Godden Green, Godden Green, Sevenoaks TN15 0JR
- Responsible to: Clinical Lead Occupational Therapist and Clinical Services Manager as well as the Regional Lead Occupational Therapist
Leadership:
As the Head of Department, you will provide innovative leadership and management over the Occupational Therapy service, which comprises 1 occupational therapist and 1 occupational therapy assistant. You would be responsible for the assessment and treatment of occupational dysfunction for patients on your allocated caseload, including the delivery of person-centred group and individual therapy sessions. You will work with a full multidisciplinary team in a coordinated way to support each service user to develop their skills and move through our clinical model of care from admission to discharge. You will have the support of an Occupational Therapy team and work closely with other therapists from different disciplines, including music therapy, dance and movement therapy, activity coordinators, assistant psychologists and the Active Life team.
Summary of the site
Cygnet Hospital Godden Green provides specialist acute and PICU services for women. The hospital is situated in the beautiful countryside of the Kent Weald, near Sevenoaks. Its location, in over an acre of its own grounds, helps the hospital provide a calm and therapeutic environment. We have a designated qualified Occupational Therapist on each ward, an Occupational Therapist Assistant as well as Activity Coordinators supporting the activities around the hospital. Our environment has a holistic focus and includes a gym, ADL kitchen, Recovery College, Hair Salon, Tuckshop and other therapeutic spaces.
The Occupational Therapy Directorate
Every service line has a Clinical Lead Occupational Therapist to guide and develop evidence-based practice and agreed occupational therapy pathway for each specific client group. This includes Cygnet developed guidelines and assessments. Each Clinical Lead Occupational Therapist hosts service line meetings regularly, in which you will link in with other Occupational Therapists in the company based in the same service line, providing a valuable networking and development opportunity. Specific CPD and training opportunities are also available and tailored to individual and service needs.
Our vibrant OT department in Godden Green Hospital (Sevenoaks) is passionate about delivering exceptional, client-centred care. We utilise the Vona du Toit Model of Creative Ability (VdTMoCA), a powerful evidence-based model that focuses on understanding and nurturing a client's creative capacity and ability to engage in meaningful life activities. VdTMoCA offers a structured approach to assessment and intervention, resulting in greater client participation and enhanced functional outcomes. Alongside VdTMoCA, we integrate Sensory Modulation strategies and utilise the Activity Participation Outcome Measure (APOM) to ensure a comprehensive and holistic approach. We are also highly committed to continuous quality improvement and proactive service development. A key requirement for this role is a genuine willingness to learn and implement VdTMoCA, if you are not already trained or experienced in this model. We provide excellent support and a comprehensive preceptorship programme to facilitate your learning journey.
5 reasons why you should make an application today
- We care about people in our services
- Career pathway progression within the company to support your development and skills, including sensory integration training, leadership and management training, VdTMoCA, MOHO or Group Therapy, amongst others.
- You will be an integral part of a large, well-established MDT with extensive experience to draw from.
- Dedicated CPD time being part of a national network of over 150 OTs in the Cygnet Group within different specialisms including LD and ASD, Acute mental health, and High Support Inpatient Rehabilitation Services.
- You will be a part of a friendly and supportive team of 1 OT and 1 OTA who are driven to provide excellence and where innovation and creativity are welcomed with enthusiasm.
In return we will offer you
- A competitive salary
- Free parking and free meals for staff on duty
- Opportunities for CPD and to undertake further learning and development.
- Training days provided by highly experienced and renowned OT specialists
- Expert clinical supervision and peer support
- Bi-monthly OT CPD meetings focused on skill and strategic service development.
- Group pension: a generous pension plan helping you save for your future.
- NHS Discount Cards & Blue Light Card includes big brand discounts.
- Plus much more
A career at Cygnet comes with excellent benefits. Whether it's saving you money on the high street, with healthcare, holidays & leisure or securing your future with professional development and a pension we support you to be happy both in & out of work.
The Successful Candidate should be/ have:
- A registered Occupational Therapist with the HCPC (Health Care Professions Council).
- An understanding of working with individuals diagnosed with mental health conditions, dual diagnosis, sensory processing difficulties or complex trauma.
- An understanding of Occupational Therapy process/interventions and taking a hands-on approach.
- Excellent communication and time management skills.
- Experience and knowledge in working with individuals with severe mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia and major depressive disorders.
- Proficiency in designing and delivering individualised, activity-based interventions to promote patient engagement and recovery.
- The ability to use sensory-based interventions to reduce anxiety and promote a calmer environment for patients.
- The capacity to work effectively as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
- Passionate about student education
- Ability to manage highly demanding clinical presentations.
- Effective personal and time management skills to manage a clinical caseload and a varied workload within the service.
- Interest in the field of mental health
Requirements
The successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS and reference check and an offer of employment will be subject to successful clearance.
What next?
If you care about making a difference we want to talk to you.
Head Occupational Therapist (Maternity Cover) in Sevenoaks 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 Head Occupational Therapist (Maternity Cover) in Sevenoaks
✨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 Head Occupational Therapist (Maternity Cover) in Sevenoaks
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.
