At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals to live independently and safely in their communities.
- Company: Join Wokingham Borough Council, a vibrant community-focused organisation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days annual leave, a local government pension, and a free onsite gym.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while working in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Strong IT skills and excellent communication abilities are essential.
- Other info: This role requires an enhanced DBS check and offers a chance to transform lives.
The predicted salary is between 27711 - 30060 £ per year.
We have a fantastic opportunity available for an Occupational Therapy Social Care Practitioner to join our supportive Occupational Therapy Team at Wokingham Borough Council, on a full time, permanent basis. As a Occupational Therapy Social Care Practitioner, you play a key role in supporting individuals to live independently and safely within their own homes and communities. You will work under the supervision of an OT registered practitioner to undertake direct work with the individuals and their carers. Your work will directly contribute to improving quality of life for residents with physical, sensory, or cognitive challenges. Within this role you will seek to prevent, reduce, and delay the need for formal care and support using a strength-based approach which includes provision of tailored advice, information, and a range of interventions. We are seeking a motivated and compassionate practitioner to join a team that’s transforming lives every day! Apply now to be part of a service that values innovation, collaboration, and community impact!
Benefits
- A generous annual leave entitlement of 27 days (rising to 33 days after 5 years continued local government service), plus Bank Holidays
- An excellent local government pension scheme
- An employee assistance programme including 24/7 wellbeing helpline
- A range of local & lifestyle discounts
- Use of a free onsite gym (located at Shute End office)
- Salary sacrifice car & cycle to work schemes
- And much more!
Key responsibilities:
- To work with customers and their carers using a strength-based approach to provide tailored advice, information, and signposting to help them remain as independent as possible and live safely in the community.
- To identify and implement appropriate prevention plans that will avoid, reduce, or delay the need for formal long-term care.
- Maintain a network and collaborate with key partners including other LA departments, health, and voluntary organisations to ensure that the needs of the individual are met in the most appropriate way.
- To work in a person-centred way, ensuring that individual dignity is maintained, cultural and communication needs are addressed, and choices and aspirations are acknowledged.
- To provide or arrange advocacy as required ensuring that the voices of service users are heard, and application of positive risk-taking framework as required.
- Carry a designated workload and support registered practitioners as required and directed by Team and other Managers.
- Ensure social care information recording systems are appropriately used and maintained – including recording of referrals, assessments, support plans, reviews, risk assessments and day to day contacts and case notes.
Candidate requirements:
- Competent level of IT skills and ability to learn and use adult social care recording system
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills – including ability to engage with individuals with a diverse range of communication needs
- Ability to work under pressure and maintain professional composure
- Awareness of the impact of ill health, disability, social disadvantage, and poverty has on individuals’ wellbeing
Our Area
Wokingham Borough is set in the heart of Berkshire with excellent transport links to Reading and central London. Our area comprises of a vibrant and historical market town, attractive villages, and miles of beautiful countryside. We’re home to a range of high performing schools, a host of international businesses and an incredible community. The borough has a strong local economy with accelerated growth, a range of excellent public facilities and low levels of crime, offering an exceptional quality of life.
If you’re interested in this exciting opportunity, click the link below and apply today! Alternatively, to arrange an informal discussion about the role, please contact Kara Grace via email kara.grace@wokingham.gov.uk
Closing date: 13th July 2025, 11pm
Interview date: TBC
Please be aware that we will be reviewing the applications we receive on a daily basis, and we reserve the right to close the advert early if suitable candidates are identified. If your application is shortlisted for an interview, you will be required to provide proof of your right to work in the UK at that stage. Additionally, successful candidates must present proof upon receiving a job offer. Please note that all offers are conditional and subject to the satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks.
Wokingham Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all staff, other workers and volunteers to share this commitment. All successful candidates for this role will be subject to Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks along with other relevant employment checks. Wokingham is an equal opportunities employer.
How to apply
Please apply online via the link provided. Please note, we do not accept CVs submitted without a fully completed online application form.
Occupational Therapy Social Care Practitioner employer: Wokingham Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Wokingham Borough Council Recruiting Team
kara.grace@wokingham.gov.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Occupational Therapy Social Care Practitioner
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the strength-based approach mentioned in the job description. Understanding this methodology will help you demonstrate your alignment with the council's values during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Wokingham Borough Council, especially those in the Occupational Therapy Team. They can provide insights into the team culture and expectations, which can be invaluable for your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss real-life scenarios where you've successfully supported individuals with diverse needs. This will showcase your practical experience and ability to work under pressure, which are key aspects of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Wokingham Borough and its community services. Being knowledgeable about local resources and partnerships will not only impress during interviews but also show your commitment to enhancing the lives of residents.
We think you need these skills to ace Occupational Therapy Social Care Practitioner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Occupational Therapy Social Care Practitioner position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for helping individuals live independently. Use specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to work with diverse populations and your understanding of strength-based approaches.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your CV, emphasise your excellent verbal and written communication skills, IT proficiency, and ability to work under pressure. Make sure to include any relevant qualifications or training that relate to social care and occupational therapy.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you complete the online application form thoroughly, as Wokingham Borough Council does not accept CVs without a completed form. Double-check all sections for accuracy and completeness before submitting your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wokingham Borough Council
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the key responsibilities of an Occupational Therapy Social Care Practitioner. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences align with their needs, particularly in supporting individuals to live independently.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since excellent verbal and written communication skills are crucial for this role, be ready to demonstrate these during the interview. You might be asked to engage in a scenario where you need to communicate with someone who has diverse communication needs, so think about how you would approach that.
✨Highlight Your Compassionate Approach
This position requires a motivated and compassionate practitioner. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you have shown empathy and understanding towards clients, especially those facing physical, sensory, or cognitive challenges.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your ability to work under pressure and maintain professionalism. Think of situations where you had to implement prevention plans or collaborate with other professionals, and be ready to discuss your thought process and outcomes.