At a Glance
- Tasks: Help people live independently by providing aids and adaptations tailored to their needs.
- Company: Join a supportive council team dedicated to enhancing lives through occupational therapy.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, generous leave, flexible hours, and a fantastic pension scheme.
- Other info: Access to ongoing training and career progression opportunities in a dynamic work setting.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills in a rewarding environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Occupational Therapy and HCPC registration required; experience in health or social care is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 37338 - 44962 £ per year.
An opportunity has arisen for an Occupational Therapist within the Council's Independent Living Service. The service provides aids and adaptations to help people to live independently at home for longer. The role will involve working with service users and carers to plan and implement services in accordance with assessed needs and risks, recommend and organise the provision of specialist equipment in homes, instruct service users, carers and care providers in its use, provide specialist advice to other professionals, liaise with other agencies, prepare reports and make recommendations in relation to major adaptations, and assist in the training and supervision of support staff.
Responsibilities
- Work in partnership with service users and carers to plan, implement and evaluate services based on assessed risks and needs.
- Adhere to the Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct Standards of the College of Occupational Therapy.
- Carry out comprehensive assessments requiring specialist Occupational Therapy knowledge, particularly for home adaptations.
- Undertake Continuous Professional Development in line with Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) requirements.
- Recommend and coordinate the provision of specialist equipment, providing instruction to service users, carers and care providers on its use.
- Support the training and supervision of Occupational Therapy support staff to ensure effective and efficient service delivery in line with Gateshead Council policy.
- Provide specialist advice and guidance to professionals regarding the needs of service users, carers and care providers.
- Participate in the delivery of an Occupational Therapy duty service.
- Liaise effectively with relevant agencies to ensure appropriate and joined‑up service provision.
- Contribute proactively to the ongoing development and improvement of service delivery.
- Prepare accurate reports and make clear recommendations for Senior Officers regarding major adaptations.
- Maintain professional standards and competencies to ensure service delivery is informed by accurate, up-to‑date knowledge.
Qualifications
- Degree in Occupational Therapy (BSc Hons or equivalent).
- Current Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registration and British Association of Occupational Therapists (BAOT).
- Full UK driving licence with access to a car or access to mobility support.
- Experience or understanding of working within a health or social care environment.
- Knowledge of relevant Adult Social Care, Children's and Housing legislation, including legislation relating to the provision of specialist equipment and adaptations.
- Understanding of the impact of disability on adults, children, older people and their carers, including the complexity of rehabilitation and reablement.
- Ability to carry out effective, person‑centred assessments and set achievable goals to promote maximum independence.
- Strong communication, IT, organisational and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to support colleagues and participate in practice education.
Benefits
- Competitive Salary: We offer fair and transparent pay that reflects your skills and experience.
- Outstanding Pension Scheme: We don't just offer a great salary – we invest in your future too.
- Generous Annual Leave: Enjoy 28 days of annual leave, rising to 32 days after 5 years (2 of which can be fixed by the Council), plus the option to buy up to 10 extra days.
- Flexible Working Hours: Benefit from up to 26 flexi days per year (subject to business needs), giving you more control over your time.
- Hybrid & Flexible Working: We support a healthy work‑life balance with flexible and hybrid working options.
- Learning & Development: Access a wide range of training, development, and progression opportunities to help you grow your career.
- Health & Wellbeing Support: From discounted gym memberships through our partner GLL to mental health resources, we care about your wellbeing.
- Cycle to Work Scheme: Save money and stay active with our tax‑efficient cycle to work programme.
- Electric & Hybrid Car Scheme: Get behind the wheel of a brand‑new electric or hybrid vehicle through our salary sacrifice car scheme in partnership with NHS Fleet Solutions – a cost‑effective, environmentally friendly way to drive (after 12 months service).
- Exclusive Discounts & Salary Sacrifice: Through our VIVUP employee benefits platform, enjoy discounts on shopping, travel, and services – plus salary sacrifice options on white goods, electronics, and more, helping you spread the cost of essential purchases (after 6 months service).
Occupational Therapist Independent Living Service in Gateshead employer: Gateshead Council
Join Gateshead Council's Independent Living Service as an Occupational Therapist, where you will play a vital role in empowering individuals to live independently at home. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, we offer competitive salaries, generous annual leave, and flexible working arrangements, alongside extensive learning and development opportunities to support your professional growth. Our supportive work culture prioritises collaboration and innovation, making it an excellent place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in the health and social care sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Occupational Therapist Independent Living Service in Gateshead
✨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 Gateshead 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 Gateshead Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Occupational Therapist Independent Living Service in Gateshead
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 Gateshead Council:Take some time to research Gateshead 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 Gateshead 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 Gateshead Council's values and approach.
