At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic Occupational Therapy team in secure services, shaping care for individuals with complex needs.
- Company: Join Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, dedicated to empowering mental health recovery.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, NHS discounts, training opportunities, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Opportunities for additional shifts through our staff bank and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in mental health while developing your leadership skills in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Occupational Therapy, HCPC registration, and experience in mental health or forensic settings required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Clinical Lead Occupational Therapist
Closing date: 08 April 2026
We have an exciting opportunity for a skilled and passionate Occupational therapist to take on the role as Clinical Lead to join our Adult Community Mental Health Team combining advanced clinical practice with leadership responsibilities. The successful candidate will be working in the South of Essex and Thurrock area.
The successful post holder will be supported to further develop their leadership and clinical skills through supervision, training and other CPD opportunities. The post holder will work as a core part of the broader multi‑disciplinary teams within the locality, with specific responsibility for the Occupational Therapy staff and provision of Occupational Therapy interventions.
Candidates shortlisted for this role will be required to deliver a 10 minute presentation as part of the interview process.
Main duties of the job
The successful candidate will work as the Clinical Lead holding direct responsibility for the Occupational Therapy team and the Occupational Therapy provision within the locality.
The post holder will have the opportunity to utilise clinical skills as they contribute directly with the management of people with complex care needs, and leadership skills providing supervision and shaping the delivery of services.
About us
Valuing you. Recognising your dedication. At EPUT, we look after you.
- Receive supervision and support to help you fulfil your potential.
- Join an inclusive EPUT community and connect with others through engagement events and equality or champion networks.
- If you need help, we provide mental health and wellbeing services, occupational health advice and counselling.
- We run recognition awards to recognise staff\'s hard work and dedication.
- 27 days holiday, plus bank holidays, rising to 33 days after 10 years\' service.
- Excellent pension of up to 14.5% of your pensionable pay.
- Staff discounts include Blue Light Card, NHS discount offers, and staff benefits.
- £8K relocation package if you move to Essex to join us
- Season ticket loans are interest‑free to cover the cost of travelling to and from work via tram, rail, or bus.
Work that wraps around your needs
- Work bank: You can use the opportunity to supplement your income and develop your skills by working bank shifts.
- Flexible working: available from day one for most roles.
- Job share: Applications for job shares are welcomed.
Job responsibilities
Please see attached job description for more detail.
Leading on the Occupational Therapy service delivery within the locality Adult Community Mental Health Teams Brentwood Resource Centre, Basildon Mental Health Unit and Grays Hall, Thurrock.
Person Specification
Qualifications
- HCPC registration
- Leadership training
Experience
- Working with those with Mental Health Problems
- Use of a variety of therapeutic interventions
- Working within community delivery of MH
Leadership
- Responsibility within the workplace for development/delivery of new initiatives
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Contract
Permanent
Working pattern
Full‑time, Flexible working, Compressed hours
£47,810 to £54,710 a year per annum, pro rata for part time
Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust
Clinical Lead Occupational Therapist in Wickford employer: Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust
Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT) is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional development of its staff. Located at Brockfield House, the Trust offers a supportive work culture with flexible working options, comprehensive training opportunities, and a range of benefits including NHS discounts and a buying and selling annual leave scheme. As a Clinical Lead Occupational Therapist, you will have the chance to lead a dedicated team in delivering impactful care while enjoying a collaborative environment that values diversity and inclusion.
Contact Details:
Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Clinical Lead Occupational Therapist in Wickford
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the VdT Model of Creative Ability, as this is a key component in the role. Understanding how to apply this model in practice will demonstrate your readiness to lead and innovate within the Occupational Therapy team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of EPUT to gain insights into the organisational culture and expectations. This can help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you are genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with complex care needs and forensic settings in detail. Be ready to provide specific examples of how you've successfully managed similar cases, as this will highlight your suitability for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership skills by discussing any previous supervisory roles or experiences where you’ve led a team. Highlighting your ability to mentor and guide others will be crucial for this Clinical Lead position.
We think you need these skills to ace Clinical Lead Occupational Therapist in Wickford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in mental health and occupational therapy. Emphasise your leadership skills and any specific training or qualifications that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your passion for occupational therapy and how your values align with those of EPUT. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to lead a team and manage complex care needs.
Highlight Relevant Skills:Clearly outline your skills in assessment, intervention planning, and working within a multi-disciplinary team. Use examples from your past roles to illustrate your expertise in evidence-based practices.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a clinical setting.
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust
✨Showcase Your Clinical Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your clinical experience in detail, especially in mental health and forensic settings. Highlight specific cases where you've successfully implemented evidence-based Occupational Therapy interventions.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Clinical Lead, you'll be responsible for supervising a team. Share examples of how you've led teams in the past, focusing on your approach to supervision, mentoring, and fostering a collaborative environment.
✨Understand the Recovery Process
Familiarise yourself with the recovery-focused pathways and the VdT Model of Creative Ability. Be ready to explain how you would apply these models in practice to support service users with complex care needs.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Diversity
Discuss your understanding of diversity and inclusion within healthcare. Provide examples of how you've adapted your practice to challenge discrimination and promote equality among service users and colleagues.
