At a Glance
- Tasks: Support adults in living fulfilling lives through person-centred solutions.
- Company: Essex County Council, dedicated to empowering citizens.
- Benefits: Flexible working, 27 days leave, professional development, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Join a warm, supportive team committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while growing your career.
- Qualifications: HCPC registered Occupational Therapist with strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 68000 - 68000 £ per year.
We're an adult social care service that wants to see citizens of Essex have as much choice and control over the way they live their lives as possible. We think everyone should have the chance to live a full and fulfilling life with people they love and care about, doing things that matter to them and living in a place they can call home.
Our Occupational Therapists work in partnership with people, their families, and carers - listening, understanding, and co-creating person-centred and strengths-based solutions that support individuals to live life on their terms. We recognise that everyone's journey is different and with the right support, each one can be meaningful and fulfilling. We're determined that with the right support, everyone can maintain or achieve some independence and we're proud to be working to make these ambitions a reality.
Being an Occupational Therapist at Essex County Council is as diverse as it is rewarding. Working across all areas of adult social care within the framework of our statutory Care Act requirements, you'll have the opportunity to practice creatively, carrying out holistic assessments, delivering meaningful interventions, and ensuring safeguarding is at the heart of everything you do. Join us and you could find yourself making an impact in housing, commissioning, provider quality, organisational safeguards, mental health or learning disabilities, to name a few.
If you share our vision, enjoy meeting people and hearing their stories you might be interested to find out more about what we do. If you're also an Occupational Therapist registered with HCPC with that winning combination of creative thought, reliability and practical ability to get things done, we'd really love to hear from you! You'll have a broad understanding of our statutory responsibilities and a commitment to meeting these in a person-centred way. You’ll be able to demonstrate evidence-based practice, with an awareness of financial considerations and risk. You will have strong communication skills, with the ability to develop strong relationships with partner agencies and the local community to provide a supportive framework. This role involves travelling around Essex and beyond. A driving licence and car - or the ability to meet the mobility requirements of the role through other means - is essential.
In June 2025, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) rated our Adult Social Care services as "Good" with a score of 73%. Our teams are busy, but they're also warm, welcoming, friendly and supportive. Our fantastic team managers are here to help you manage your workload and develop your practice. We take your career just as seriously as you do, and we have a continuing professional development offer that's second to none. We welcome diversity because it makes us grow and we're determined to become a fully inclusive and an anti-racist organisation.
We'll support you to be your best and will offer:
- Ongoing opportunities for continuing professional development
- Flexible working options
- Employee wellbeing and counselling
- Lease Car scheme
- Life assurance of three times annual salary
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Volunteering leave
- 27 days annual leave (plus bank holidays), rising with service
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) - access to free and confidential information, support, and guidance from a team of highly qualified professionals.
- Employee Networks - communities to support you, connect you and help influence change at ECC
- Payment of your professional registration fees!
For more information, please contact Abbie.Mollison@essex.gov.uk. Essex County Council is proud to be a Disability Confident Leader. We're committed to interview all disabled applicants who choose to apply under our Job Interview Scheme if they meet the minimum requirements of the job. Please speak to our Recruiters if you require any reasonable adjustments during the process. We're also committed to interview all veterans and care leavers, who meet the minimum requirements of the role for which they are applying.
At Essex County Council, we value integrity and ethical behaviour. We kindly ask that you embrace our code of conduct and the Nolan principles, including throughout the recruitment process. Your commitment to these standards helps us maintain a positive and respectful workplace for everyone.
As part of employment with Essex County Council (ECC) should your role require a DBS check you will be required to register with the DBS update service. Essex County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.
Impactful Occupational Therapist - Adult Social Care in Chelmsford employer: Essex County Council
Essex County Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the well-being of its employees while making a meaningful impact in the lives of children and young people. With flexible working arrangements and opportunities for professional development, staff are encouraged to grow within their roles, all while contributing to a vital service in the heart of Chelmsford.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Impactful Occupational Therapist - Adult Social Care in Chelmsford
✨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 Essex County 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 Essex County Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Impactful Occupational Therapist - Adult Social Care in Chelmsford
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 Essex County Council:Take some time to research Essex County 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 Essex County 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 Essex County Council's values and approach.
