At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to support individuals with physical health disabilities.
- Company: Durham County Council, committed to safeguarding and promoting welfare.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, flexible working, and excellent pension scheme.
- Other info: Internal vacancy; applications welcomed from diverse backgrounds.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree in Occupational Therapy and experience in Health or Social Care.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
The successful candidate will become part of a highly motivated and successful Occupational Therapy Service within County Durham. This post is permanent, full time (37 hours) for a progressed Occupational Therapist.
WHAT IS INVOLVED?
We are looking for an individual with experience of working with service users with predominantly physical health disabilities. If you are interested in this countywide post, we encourage you to contact Daiella McCluskey, Countywide OT & Sensory Support Manager, email: daniella.mccluskey@durham.gov.uk to arrange an informal discussion about the role.
WHAT WILL I NEED?
- Be a progressed Occupational Therapist.
- Degree or Diploma in Occupational Therapy with Health Professions Council Registration.
- Experience of working within a Health or Social Care setting.
- Knowledge of the structures within the NHS and Local Authorities.
- Awareness of recent or impending changes within these organisations which would impact upon this role would also be beneficial.
Please refer to the attached person specification for the full criteria. If successful, you will be required to apply for a Disclosure and Barring Service Enhanced Disclosure.
OUR COMMITMENT TO SAFEGUARDING
Durham County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect all employees and volunteers to share this commitment. This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore if successful in your application, an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be sought inclusive of a check of the Adults Barred List, due to the position working in regulated activity. Applicants should be aware that the DBS check will disclose both spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands and warnings, in line with current legislation and will confirm whether an individual is barred from working with adults.
INTERVIEWS
Interviews will be held week commencing 31st August 2026. We operate a guaranteed interview scheme for applicants that can show they meet all the essential criteria and have indicated they have a disability, are a looked after young person, care leaver or a veteran.
OUR OFFER TO YOU
We offer a competitive rewards package that includes attractive salaries, a generous annual leave entitlement of 27 days (rising to 32 after five years' continuous local government service), membership of the excellent contributory career average Local Government Pension Scheme, and a range of flexible working arrangements including hybrid working (home and office) where applicable. Hybrid working applies to this post. Explore the full range of rewards and benefits on our website. Rewards and benefits are subject to individual terms and conditions.
EQUALITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION
We are a proud equal opportunities employer and believe a diverse workforce brings fresh ideas and drives service improvement. We welcome applications from everyone and make employment decisions based on skills and ability. As a Disability Confident Leader, we actively encourage applications from disabled and neurodivergent people and offer support throughout the recruitment process.
THIS IS AN INTERNAL VACANCY
This vacancy is restricted to employees of Durham County Council which includes all permanent, temporary, fixed term employees and agency workers. Please note that the interview date must be prior to your contract end date if temporary. Permanent employees applying for a temporary position are required to seek approval from their line manager, to guarantee the return to their substantive post at the expiry of the temporary post. Anyone currently listed on the Redeployment Register who would like to be considered for this vacancy should contact the Resourcing team via email alternativeemployment@durham.gov.uk.
Occupational Therapist in Spennymoor employer: Kirklees Metropolitan Council
Kirklees Metropolitan Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and flexible work environment for Childcare Lawyers in Northallerton. With hybrid working options and a strong commitment to employee growth, the council fosters a culture of collaboration and professional development, making it an ideal place for those passionate about making a meaningful impact in children's services.
Contact Details:
Kirklees Metropolitan Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Occupational Therapist in Spennymoor
✨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 Kirklees Metropolitan 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 Kirklees Metropolitan Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Occupational Therapist in Spennymoor
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 Kirklees Metropolitan Council:Take some time to research Kirklees Metropolitan 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 Kirklees Metropolitan 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 Kirklees Metropolitan Council's values and approach.
