At a Glance
- Tasks: Support adults to maximise independence and achieve meaningful outcomes in their daily lives.
- Company: Join Walsall Council's innovative Pathway to Independence Service.
- Benefits: Flexible working, generous holidays, excellent pension scheme, and personal development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic role with varied caseload and collaborative team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills in a rewarding environment.
- Qualifications: Excellent communication skills and a commitment to person-centred practice.
The predicted salary is between 36581 - 39481 £ per year.
Walsall Council is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Occupational Therapy Assistant to join our innovative Pathway to Independence Service. This is an exciting opportunity to support adults across Walsall to maximise their independence, remain safely in their own homes, and achieve the outcomes that matter most to them. Working as part of a multidisciplinary team, you will play a key role in delivering strengths-based, person-centred interventions that promote wellbeing, independence and choice.
About You
Are you passionate about supporting people to live independently and reach their full potential? Do you enjoy working directly with adults and their families to find practical solutions that make a real difference to daily life? We are looking for someone who has excellent communication skills, a positive and proactive approach, and a genuine commitment to person-centred practice. Whether you have experience working in health, social care or community settings, you will understand the importance of promoting independence, dignity and choice. You will be able to build effective relationships with citizens, carers and professionals, manage your own workload, and work collaboratively as part of a busy multidisciplinary team. An understanding of equality, reablement, assistive technology, adaptations and the principles of the Care Act 2014 and Mental Capacity Act 2005 would be advantageous.
If you thrive in a role where no two days are the same and enjoy helping people achieve greater independence, we would love to hear from you.
Responsibilities
As an Occupational Therapy Assistant, you will manage a varied caseload and support adults with physical disabilities, sensory impairment, mental health and learning disabilities. You will carry out assessments within the community, identifying needs and recommending appropriate equipment, assistive technology and adaptations to support independent living. You will:
- Assess individuals in their own homes and community settings.
- Support the provision of equipment, minor adaptations and assistive technology.
- Demonstrate and review equipment to ensure it meets identified needs.
- Contribute to reablement and support planning interventions.
- Work closely with Occupational Therapists and other professionals across health and social care.
- Maintain accurate records, assessments and reports.
- Support citizens to access community resources and maximise their independence.
This role offers an excellent opportunity to develop your skills and knowledge within Adult Social Care, while making a meaningful difference to the lives of local residents.
Important Note
When completing your online application form, you will be asked to provide supporting information. You must clearly demonstrate how your skills, knowledge and experience meet the criteria outlined in the Employee Specification. Applications submitted without a supporting information statement will not be shortlisted. Please ensure you also complete the work history and qualifications sections of the application form. Please do not attach a CV, as CVs are not accepted as part of the recruitment process.
This post is covered by the Government's Code of Practice on the English Language Fluency Duty for public sector workers. The successful applicant will be required to communicate verbally with customers and provide advice and information in accurate spoken English.
Walsall Council takes seriously its responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, young people and adults. All employees are expected to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS check is required for this post.
Here at Walsall, we want to attract the best talent. That's why - as well as a satisfying and rewarding job - we offer a range of attractive benefits. Working arrangements in most jobs are flexible (you may work flexitime, full or part time and job sharing is usually available) and you can expect generous holiday entitlements, a first class pension scheme and plenty of opportunities for training and personal development.
Walsall Council is committed to Safer Recruitment. To achieve our commitment, we will ensure continuous development and improvement of robust recruitment processes and procedures that promote a culture of safeguarding amongst our workforce.
Occupational Therapy Assistant - Ref: SS06326 in Walsall employer: Walsall Council
Walsall Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the well-being and development of its staff. As a Residential Childcare Worker, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children in care while benefiting from competitive pay, including additional compensation for sleep-ins, and access to ongoing training and professional growth within a dedicated team environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Occupational Therapy Assistant - Ref: SS06326 in Walsall
✨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 Walsall 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 Walsall Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Occupational Therapy Assistant - Ref: SS06326 in Walsall
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 Walsall Council:Take some time to research Walsall 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 Walsall 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 Walsall Council's values and approach.
