At a Glance
- Tasks: Assess and deliver tailored OT interventions for children with communication challenges.
- Company: Unlocking Language, a leader in speech and language therapy services.
- Benefits: Flexible payment options, supportive team, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on empowering young people across London.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while enjoying flexible working arrangements.
- Qualifications: HCPC-registered OT with paediatric experience and strong teamwork skills.
The predicted salary is between 37338 - 44962 £ per year.
Unlocking Language is a leading provider of speech and language therapy services, dedicated to empowering children and young people with communication challenges across London and Greater London. We are expanding our multidisciplinary offer and are now building a pool of HCPC‑registered Occupational Therapists to deliver flexible, child‑centred Occupational Therapy (OT) programmes alongside our Speech & Language Therapist (SLT) team.
Benefits
- Flexible payment options via your chosen umbrella: Get paid at the rhythm which suits you monthly as standard, with a bi‑weekly alternative.
- A supportive and collaborative team environment.
- Join a service that values flexibility; demand for term‑time, family‑friendly working is rising across the education sector.
- The opportunity to make a real impact on the lives of children with communication difficulties.
- Ongoing CPD and professional development opportunities.
Responsibilities
- As a Locum Occupational Therapist, you will assess, plan and deliver goal‑focused OT intervention for children with sensory, motor‑planning and daily‑living challenges in education or home settings.
- Write concise treatment plans, EHCP contributions and progress reports that align with RCOT and HCPC standards.
- Liaise with parents, teachers, SENCOs and our in‑house SLTs to embed strategies in everyday routines.
- Maintain GDPR‑compliant records and safeguarding best practice.
Qualifications
- HCPC‑registered Occupational Therapist with proven paediatric experience (schools, early years, or community children’s teams).
- Confidence working autonomously.
- Strong teamwork and communication skills to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
- Enhanced DBS and up‑to‑date safeguarding.
- Desirable: Sensory Integration training.
- Desirable: EHCP report writing.
- Desirable: Knowledge and experience of AAC.
Locum Occupational Therapist in City of Westminster employer: Unlocking Language
Unlocking Language is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative team environment where Locum Occupational Therapists can thrive. With flexible payment options and a commitment to ongoing professional development, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children with communication challenges across London. Join us in a role that values flexibility and family-friendly working, while being part of a multidisciplinary team dedicated to empowering young people.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Locum Occupational Therapist in City of Westminster
✨Tap into Local Networks and Communities
Freelancing in therapy and counselling means you'll need to build a solid local presence. Attend workshops, community events, or local counselling meet-ups to connect with potential clients and other professionals in your area. They might have referrals or even collaboration opportunities to help you get started!
✨Create a Public Portfolio of Your Work
Craft a portfolio that showcases your skills and the different therapeutic approaches you use. This could include case studies, testimonials from past clients (with privacy respected, of course), and any resources you’ve created. Having a strong online presence helps potential clients see what you’re about and builds credibility.
✨Join Professional Online Platforms
Freelance therapists thrive on platforms designed for mental health professionals. Sign up for directories like TherapyDen or Psychology Today where you can list your practice. This is a great way to gain visibility and connect with clients actively looking for someone with your qualifications.
✨Promote Your Services Through Social Media
Don’t underestimate the power of social media! Create accounts focused on mental health awareness and share insightful content or tips that demonstrate your expertise. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook can be great for establishing connections and letting people know you're available for freelance work, including promoting any workshops or events you may be hosting.
We think you need these skills to ace Locum Occupational Therapist in City of Westminster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Therapy Style:Freelance roles in therapy and counselling really thrive on personal connection, so we're talking about your unique approach to counselling. In your cover letter, share your therapeutic style, whether it's person-centred, cognitive-behavioural, or something else. This will help Unlocking Language see how you fit into their team's vibe.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications:This field is all about qualifications and certifications. Make sure to list any relevant psychology degrees, counselling diplomas, or licenses right at the top of your CV. That'll speak volumes about your capability and commitment, not to mention it's a must-have in our profession!
Portfolio of Experience:As a freelancer, your portfolio is your best friend! Include case studies or testimonials from clients (with permission, of course) that highlight your skills and success stories. This real-world proof can set you apart from the crowd for Unlocking Language.
Rates and Availability:Don’t shy away from discussing rates upfront in your application. Give a rough idea of your fee structure and your availability—this shows professionalism and helps Unlocking Language assess if you’re the right fit without any surprises down the line.
How to prepare for a job interview at Unlocking Language
✨Showcase Your Unique Approach
As a freelance therapist or counsellor, it’s crucial to highlight your specific therapeutic style and methods. Be prepared to discuss your philosophy, any unique techniques you use, and how they benefit clients. This lets Unlocking Language see how you stand out in a crowded market.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that test your problem-solving skills in real-life situations. Think about challenges you’ve faced in past counselling sessions and how you navigated them, demonstrating your expertise and empathy.
✨Bring Your Portfolio and Success Stories
Don’t forget to prepare a portfolio showcasing your qualifications, certifications, and successful case studies. This could include testimonials or feedback from previous clients (anonymised, of course). It’s like your sales pitch for your unique brand of therapy, so make it count!
✨Know Your Rates and Value Proposition
As a freelancer, you’ll need to discuss your rates confidently. Have a clear understanding of what you offer and how it translates into value for clients. Be ready to explain why investing in your services is worthwhile for Unlocking Language, as they might want to help you find clients or collaborators down the line.
