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- Tasks: Support children with disabilities and assist qualified OTs in improving their lives.
- Company: Join Surrey County Council's dedicated Children with Disabilities Occupational Therapy Team.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days holiday, a generous pension, and wellbeing discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: GCSE level or equivalent, experience with children, and a passion for helping others.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a commitment to inclusion and support.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are committed to the development of our workforce. This position is only available to applicants who already work for Surrey County Council. We thank you for your interest in our roles and would encourage you to review our vacancies which are open to all.
This full-time, permanent role has a starting salary of £33,552 per annum, based on a 36 hour working week.
We have a great opportunity for an Occupational Therapy Assistant to join our fantastic Children with Disabilities Occupational Therapist (OT) Team based from our Reigate office, Woodhatch.
Our Offer to You
- 26 days' holiday, rising to 28 days after 2 years' service and 31 days after 5 years' service
- Option to buy up to 10 days of additional annual leave
- A generous local government salary related pension
- Up to 5 days of carer's leave and 2 paid volunteering days per year
- Paternity, adoption and dependents leave
- An Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing
- Learning and development hub where you can access a wealth of resources
- Wellbeing and lifestyle discounts including gym, travel, and shopping
- A chance to make a real difference to the lives of our residents
About The Role
This is an exciting time to join Surrey County Council's Children with Disabilities Occupational Therapy Service as we continually improve outcomes for the children we work with. Working closely with our colleagues in health and education, the Children with Disabilities Service aims to safeguard and promote the welfare and development of children with disabilities, whilst supporting them to be cared for by their families at home.
The Children with Disabilities Occupational Therapist (OT) Team includes full and part-time OTs and several Occupational Therapy Assistants. We work across the whole of Surrey at the moment, but with planned Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), this will potentially become two separate OT teams working in either the East or West Surrey authority when it is created. The team is a part of the wider Children with Disabilities Service, which includes Social Workers.
The role of an Occupational Therapy Assistant is to provide significant support to qualified OTs, under the supervision of a Senior Children's Occupational Therapist, working directly with children, young people, and their families.
Main Responsibilities
- Undertaking complex tasks on cases which includes: OT assessments, supporting rehousing, seating, equipment and moving and handling reviews
- Working with partners in the provision of targeted services
- Participating in duty systems as required
- Supporting the team by ensuring up to date knowledge of equipment, new products and theoretical advances
- The review and adjustment of OT equipment
- Contributing to improving practice standards and personal competence through continuous professional development
Your Application
In order to be considered for shortlisting, your application will clearly evidence the following skills and align with our behaviours:
- GCSE level of attainment, or equivalent alternative
- Experience of working with children and families
- Understanding of relevant legislation affecting working with children, including the Children Act (1989) and the Children and Families Act 2014
- A commitment to working with children to improve the quality of their lives
- The ability to plan, manage, and prioritise a caseload
- Willingness and ability to work some evenings if required in line with service needs
Surrey has both urban and rural areas and Occupational Therapy staff are expected to have a valid driving licence to drive in the UK, access to a vehicle and be willing to travel across a wide geographical area. Reasonable adjustments where needed will be made for successful applicants who have a disability or long term health condition to enable them to fulfil the requirements of the job.
To apply, we request that you submit a CV and you will be asked the following 4 questions:
- Please tell us about your motivations for applying for the role of Children's Occupational Therapy Assistant.
- Please tell us about, and provide examples of, your experience of working with children with disabilities.
- Please tell us how you work effectively with families, carers, and other professionals to ensure a child's Occupational Therapy support plan is progressed and communicated?
- Please give an example of an activity or strategy you've used to make an activity engaging for a child who was reluctant to participate?
Before submitting your application, we recommend you read the job description and Our Life at Surrey handbook to get an insight into working at Surrey.
An enhanced DBS 'Disclosure and Barring Service' check for regulated activity (formerly known as CRB) and the Children's and Adults' Barred List checks will be required for this role.
We are a disability confident employer which means if you have shared a disability on your application form and have evidenced you meet the minimum criteria, we guarantee you an interview. Your skills and experience truly matter to us. From application to your first day, we're committed to supporting you with any adjustments you need, we value inclusion and warmly welcome you to join and help build a workplace where everyone belongs.
Children\'s Occupational Therapy Assistant in Reigate employer: Surrey County Council
Contact Detail:
Surrey County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Children\'s Occupational Therapy Assistant in Reigate
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field of occupational therapy, especially those who work with children. They might have insider info on job openings or can even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to working with children and disabilities. Think about your experiences and how they align with the role. We want you to shine when it’s your turn to impress!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion! When you get the chance to speak with potential employers, let them know why you’re committed to improving the lives of children with disabilities. Your enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the latest opportunities tailored just for you. Let’s get you that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Children\'s Occupational Therapy Assistant in Reigate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. We want to see why you’re excited about the role of Children's Occupational Therapy Assistant and how you can make a difference in their lives.
Be Specific with Examples: Make sure to back up your claims with real-life examples. When we ask about your experience, share specific situations where you've worked with children or families, especially those with disabilities. This helps us see your skills in action!
Tailor Your Responses: Read the job description carefully and align your answers with the skills and behaviours we're looking for. Use the language from the job description to show that you understand what we value at Surrey County Council.
Check Your Application Before Submitting: Before hitting that submit button, give your application a thorough once-over. Make sure there are no typos and that your CV is up-to-date. A polished application shows us you care about the details!
How to prepare for a job interview at Surrey County Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the relevant legislation, like the Children Act (1989) and the Children and Families Act 2014. Being able to discuss these laws confidently will show that you understand the framework within which you'll be working.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples of your experience working with children and families, especially those with disabilities. Think about challenges you've faced and how you overcame them, as this will demonstrate your problem-solving skills and commitment to improving lives.
✨Engage with the Team
During the interview, express your enthusiasm for collaborating with other professionals. Share how you've effectively worked with families and carers in the past, and be ready to discuss how you would contribute to a child's Occupational Therapy support plan.
✨Be Ready for Scenarios
Expect to answer questions about specific strategies you've used to engage reluctant children. Prepare a couple of engaging activities or techniques you've implemented before, as this will highlight your creativity and adaptability in a therapeutic setting.
