At a Glance
- Tasks: Help people live independently by providing tailored occupational therapy solutions.
- Company: Cheshire West and Chester Council, dedicated to improving lives.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and career progression.
- Other info: Join a supportive team focused on empowering communities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities and health conditions.
- Qualifications: Degree in Occupational Therapy and HCPC registration required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Location: Cheshire West and Chester
Salary: Competitive salary plus excellent local government benefits
Contract: Full-Time, Permanent
Working Pattern: Hybrid and flexible working available
Help People Live Independently and Safely
Cheshire West and Chester Council is seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Occupational Therapist to join our Disability and Equipment Provision Service. This is a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful difference to the lives of adults and children with disabilities, long-term health conditions, and complex needs. You will play a vital role in promoting independence, enhancing quality of life, and enabling individuals to remain safe and active within their homes and communities.
Working as part of a supportive multidisciplinary team, you will assess needs, recommend specialist equipment and adaptations, and develop creative solutions that empower people to achieve their personal outcomes.
About the Role
As an Occupational Therapist, you will undertake person-centred assessments and provide specialist advice to individuals, families, carers, and partner agencies regarding equipment, adaptations, and independent living solutions. You will work with people experiencing a range of physical disabilities, sensory impairments, long-term illnesses, neurological conditions, and age-related needs.
Key responsibilities include:
- Undertaking occupational therapy assessments within homes, community settings, and other environments.
- Assessing functional ability and identifying barriers to independence.
- Recommending, prescribing, and arranging the provision of specialist equipment and assistive technology.
- Identifying the need for minor and major adaptations to support safe and independent living.
- Developing outcome-focused intervention plans in partnership with individuals and carers.
- Providing advice, guidance, and support to service users, families, and professionals.
- Working collaboratively with health colleagues, social care teams, housing providers, and external agencies.
- Managing a diverse caseload and maintaining accurate case records.
- Ensuring practice complies with relevant legislation, professional standards, and local policies.
- Supporting prevention and early intervention approaches that reduce dependency on long-term services.
About You
We are looking for a passionate Occupational Therapist who is committed to improving outcomes for people with disabilities and long-term health conditions.
Essential Requirements
- Degree or Diploma in Occupational Therapy.
- Current registration with Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
- Experience of occupational therapy assessment and intervention.
- Knowledge of disability, long-term illness, rehabilitation, and independent living principles.
- Experience of recommending and prescribing equipment and adaptations.
- Understanding of relevant legislation including the Care Act 2014 and disability-related legislation.
- Strong assessment, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities.
- Ability to manage a varied caseload effectively and prioritise workload.
Desirable Requirements
- Experience working within local authority social care, community health, or integrated services.
- Knowledge of Disabled Facilities Grants and housing adaptations.
- Experience with assistive technology and moving and handling assessments.
- Experience working with children and/or adults with complex needs.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
- Access to professional supervision and support.
- Continuing Professional Development opportunities.
- Career progression pathways within Occupational Therapy and Adult Social Care services.
- Generous annual leave entitlement.
- Local Government Pension Scheme.
- A collaborative and supportive team environment.
Why Join Cheshire West and Chester?
At Cheshire West and Chester, we are committed to helping people live independently, safely, and with dignity. Our Occupational Therapists are highly valued professionals who play a crucial role in supporting residents to achieve the outcomes that matter most to them.
If you are passionate about enabling independence and delivering person-centred occupational therapy services, we would love to hear from you.
Apply Now
Join us and help transform lives through innovative assessment, equipment provision, and practical solutions that make a real difference every day.
Occupational Therapist employer: We Do Social Work
Cheshire West and Chester Council is an exceptional employer, offering a competitive salary alongside excellent local government benefits, including generous annual leave and a Local Government Pension Scheme. Our supportive work culture fosters collaboration within a multidisciplinary team, providing ample opportunities for professional development and career progression in Occupational Therapy. By joining us, you will have the chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities and long-term health conditions in a flexible working environment that prioritises independence and dignity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Occupational Therapist
✨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 We Do Social Work. 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 We Do Social Work.
We think you need these skills to ace Occupational Therapist
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 We Do Social Work:Take some time to research We Do Social Work 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 We Do Social Work
✨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 We Do Social Work's values and approach.
