At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to provide therapy for young people with complex mental health needs.
- Company: Lavender Walk, a supportive environment focused on professional development.
- Benefits: Robust supervision, training opportunities, and pathways to senior roles.
- Other info: Flexible hours and a focus on teamwork and diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree in Occupational Therapy and HPC registration required.
The predicted salary is between 30414 - 36989 £ per year.
This Band 5 role offers the opportunity to join a dynamic team as a CAMHS Inpatient Occupational Therapist at Lavender Walk, South Kensington. You will work with young people aged 13-18 with complex mental health needs and participate in a multi-disciplinary ward team.
Main duties of the job:
- You will provide individual and group occupational therapy interventions, using assessment tools and trauma-informed principles to assess, plan, implement and evaluate treatment.
- You will work closely with the Lead Occupational Therapist to facilitate the unit’s therapeutic and activity programme, and you may supervise OT fieldwork placements and activity coordinators.
Working for our organisation:
- Band 5 staff receive robust supervision, a preceptorship programme and internal training that can lead to educator roles.
- The trust offers supportive professional development, a strong OT R&D strategy, and opportunities to progress into senior posts.
Person specification:
Education / Knowledge:
- Degree or diploma in Occupational Therapy
- HPC registered Occupational Therapist or eligible for registration
- Evidence of CPD and self-directed learning
Previous Experience:
- Undergraduate experience in mental health
- Experience using a range of standardised OT assessments
- Experience working in a multi-disciplinary team and environment
- Experience with children and young people
- Experience in acute mental health settings
Skills, Knowledge, Abilities:
- Individual and group work skills
- Clear understanding of occupational therapy models of practice
- Creative engagement of patients
- Strong communication skills and empathy
- Respect for service users and culturally sensitive approach
- Understanding of clinical audit and evidence-based practice in mental health
- Patient-centred approach to service delivery
- Timely reporting and record keeping
- Promoting recovery and social inclusion
- Awareness of CQC and its functions
- Ability to prioritise workload and use initiative
- Knowledge of child and adolescent development
- Capacity to carry out physical assessments and interventions when needed
Attitude, Aptitudes, Personal Characteristics:
- Excellent written and verbal communication, including use of IT systems
- High personal motivation and self-awareness
- Flexible approach to unit activities
- Reflective practice and responsibility for personal development
- Team collaboration, facilitation and leadership within diversity
- Good organisational and delegation skills
- Support conflict resolution within staff and client settings
- Understanding of therapeutic boundaries and maintenance with children and young people
- Promotion of equality and diversity
Other:
- Ability to understand and implement national policies, equal opportunities and Code of Ethics
- willingness to work adjusted hours to meet patient needs
- Membership of BAOT and specialist sections
Band 5 Occupational Therapist employer: CNWL
Joining our team as a Band 5 Occupational Therapist at Lavender Walk in South Kensington means becoming part of a supportive and dynamic environment dedicated to the mental health of young people. We prioritise professional development through robust supervision, a preceptorship programme, and opportunities for career progression, all while fostering a culture of collaboration and respect. Our commitment to employee growth and a patient-centred approach makes us an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding work in the field of mental health.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Band 5 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 CNWL. 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 CNWL.
We think you need these skills to ace Band 5 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 CNWL:Take some time to research CNWL 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 CNWL
✨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 CNWL's values and approach.
