At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to support independent living through assessments and specialist equipment.
- Company: A well-regarded service in Pennine Lancashire with a strong team culture.
- Benefits: Flexible working, training opportunities, and staff discounts.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and supporting OT students.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Minimum two years' experience in health settings, especially with physical disabilities.
The predicted salary is between 37338 - 44962 £ per year.
We are delighted to offer an exciting opportunity for a motivated and enthusiastic Occupational Therapist to join our Specialist Occupational Therapy Team within the Independent Living Service. Our service is well regarded, with strong team morale, excellent support, and positive staff retention. We are seeking someone who is passionate about delivering high-quality outcomes and values working within a small unitary authority where trust, respect, ambition, collaboration, and kindness are central to everything we do.
Our Commitment to You
We are proud of our strong commitment to staff development and wellbeing. You will benefit from:
- Access to a wide range of training opportunities
- Monthly supervision from the OT Lead
- Opportunities for joint case working, when appropriate
About the Service
Our team makes a vital contribution to supporting independent living within the community. We serve a diverse population across the heart of Pennine Lancashire, providing specialist equipment and adaptations as part of the Independent Living Service. This includes close working relationships with:
- Moving and Handling
- Major Adaptations Surveyors
- Disabled Facilities Grant Business Support Team
- Housing Officer
- Sensory Impairment
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will undertake a varied and rewarding role, including:
- Completing community assessments and developing intervention plans
- Working collaboratively with social care, health, housing, and third-sector partners
- Designing disabled adaptations alongside designated surveyors
- Assessing for complex and specialist equipment, particularly specialist seating
- Producing reports for adaptations and specialist equipment panels
- Providing rehousing advice and support
- Carrying out adaptation check visits and recording outcome measures
- Potentially supervising Assessment & Review Officers or other staff (depending on experience)
- Supporting OT students as a Practice Educator (training links with UOL and UOC)
- Contributing to service development and improvement
About You
We welcome applications from experienced Occupational Therapists with a minimum of two years’ experience in hospital, community, or health settings, particularly working with physical disabilities across a range of specialities. The senior role offers the opportunity to develop specialist skills, take on supervisory responsibilities, support students and apprentices, and play an active role in service development.
You will demonstrate:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong clinical assessment and decision‑making abilities
- The ability to work independently while also contributing effectively within a team
Employee Benefits
Flexible working arrangements to support a healthy work‑life balance. Option to purchase additional unpaid leave at two points during the year. HCPC registration fee reimbursement at the start of each two‑year cycle. Access to staff discounts, including car lease schemes, retail and entertainment offers, and gym memberships.
Interested?
For an informal discussion about the role or to arrange a visit to the team, please contact: Joanne Harris, Occupational Therapy Team Manager, 01254 585267 | 07966 274786. We would be very happy to hear from you.
Senior Occupational Therapist employer: Blackburn with Darwen Council
Blackburn with Darwen Council is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With flexible and hybrid working options, the council fosters a culture of inclusivity and innovation, empowering employees to make meaningful contributions to the transformation of Adult Social Care services. Join us to be part of a team that values diverse perspectives and invests in your development.
Contact Details:
Blackburn with Darwen Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Occupational Therapist
✨Connect Through Professional Networks
Join associations related to therapy and counselling, like the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). They often have job boards, events, and forums where you can meet potential employers and like-minded professionals. Being active in these spaces can give you a significant edge.
✨Show Up at Local Mental Health Events
Look for workshops, seminars, and conferences focused on mental health in your area. Not only can you learn valuable insights, but you can also network with professionals who might be aware of full-time opportunities, like the ones at Blackburn with Darwen Council. Plus, showing your passion for the field in person can leave a lasting impression.
✨Utilise Online Platforms Tailored to Counselling
Websites like TherapyJobs or Indeed specifically cater to therapy professionals. Make sure to check these regularly for new listings, and consider setting up alerts to stay ahead of the game. Plus, applying directly through these platforms can sometimes give you better visibility.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re recently graduated or still in school, don't forget to tap into your university's career resources. They often have exclusive listings for full-time positions and can help you refine your interview skills. Plus, they might connect you with alumni who’re already working at places like Blackburn with Darwen Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Occupational Therapist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Qualifications:Make sure to showcase any relevant qualifications you've completed, such as a degree in psychology or counselling certifications. This is super important in the therapy and counselling field, so don’t skip over these details in your CV.
Showcase Your Empathy Skills:In your cover letter, it's essential to demonstrate your empathy and communication skills, which are key in therapy. Share specific examples from your previous experiences where you've effectively helped someone through a tough time—this will make your application stand out.
Demonstrate Your Continued Learning:We love seeing candidates who are committed to ongoing professional development. Mention any workshops, seminars, or additional training you’ve attended recently. This not only boosts your CV but shows your passion for the field.
Personalise Your Application for Blackburn with Darwen Council:Take some time to research Blackburn with Darwen Council and reflect this understanding in your application. Explain why you’re interested in working with them specifically and how your values align with their approach—this personal touch can make all the difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Blackburn with Darwen Council
✨Show Your Empathy and Communication Skills
In therapy and counselling, it's all about how well you connect with others. Be ready to share examples of how you've demonstrated empathy, active listening, and non-verbal communication in past experiences. Your ability to create rapport with clients is key, so let that shine through!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face some scenario-based questions that assess your practical skills in dealing with clients. Think of various client situations or challenges you've encountered or could encounter. Practice how you would respond, ensuring you highlight your problem-solving abilities and therapeutic techniques.
✨Highlight Your Continuing Education
Being in a full-time role in therapy means you need to stay updated with the latest techniques and theories. Mention any professional development courses you've taken recently, or plans you have for ongoing education. This shows that you’re committed to growth in your field and eager to help your clients with the best approaches.
✨Finesse Your Personal Statement
In therapy, your personal statement is a chance to showcase who you are beyond your qualifications. Tailor it to not just highlight your credentials but also your passion for helping others. Share personal stories or insights that led you to this profession, reinforcing why you'd be a great fit for Blackburn with Darwen Council's values and approach.
