We are looking for an experienced and highly motivated Clinical Exercise Therapist. You will be in possession of or working towards a degree or equivalent in a related area (e.g., sports science, health studies, youth and community work), with recognized exercise teaching or coaching qualifications, such as Gym Instructor or GP Referral.
The successful candidate will have experience designing individualized physical activity programs and practical experience delivering sessions for people with various health needs. Experience in a mental health or healthcare setting is desirable.
You will join an established physiotherapy team and work as part of a broader multidisciplinary team caring for individuals with mental health issues.
The role covers inpatient adult wards across two sites: Swandean Hospital in Worthing and Oaklands Centre for Acute Care in Chichester. This is a 12-month fixed-term contract, working 20 hours per week. We offer flexible working, career development, and a range of benefits to support a positive, inclusive environment.
Please note that your CIMSPA registration number will be verified. Applicants without a current CIMSPA registration number on the application form will not be shortlisted.
Main Duties
1. Support planning, coordination, and delivery of an extensive physical activity group program.
2. Provide targeted physical activity programs for individuals with mental health conditions and chronic physical health issues.
3. Engage in health promotion activities emphasizing the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle for health and wellbeing.
4. Develop signposting and referral pathways for patients to physical activity and sports groups upon discharge into the community.
Join our inclusive team and help patients on their recovery journey.
About Us
This is a unique opportunity to be the first Clinical Exercise Therapist at Sussex Partnership NHS Trust. We aim to integrate specialist exercise therapy into our services to enhance physical and mental health outcomes.
We provide comprehensive NHS mental health, learning disability, and neurodiversity services across Sussex, including home, hospital, and community settings.
We offer attractive rewards and benefits, making Sussex Partnership a great place to work.
Job Responsibilities
Applicants should have excellent communication, motivational, and time management skills. They should be energetic, flexible, and creative in delivering health improvement programs, with a keen interest in working with individuals with mental health needs. Proven teamwork and effective communication skills are essential.
Person Specification
* L1 Sports Coaching Award or coaching experience, with willingness to pursue this qualification
* HSE-approved First Aid at Work (3 days)
* Level 3/4 CIMSPA registration number
* Ability to work under pressure
* Basic IT skills
* Effective team player
* Ability to lead health groups
* Strong organizational skills
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills
* Good interpersonal skills
* Awareness of professional conduct standards
* Understanding of health/safety and risk management
* Experience working with clients with mental health issues
* Experience in assessing, designing, and delivering exercise programs as a gym instructor
* Experience coaching sports activities for diverse abilities
* Commitment to lifelong learning
* Flexible approach to meet service needs
* Willingness to travel between sites
* ACSM/NCHPAD Certified Inclusive Fitness Trainer
* Degree in Sports Science or equivalent
* Level 4 Certificates in Exercise & Mental Health, Cardiac Diseases, Obesity and Diabetes, Older Adults
* Level 2 Exercise to Music
* Level 2 Sports Coaching Award
* Other recognized L3 or L4 Reps qualifications
* Understanding of mental health conditions
* Experience advising on healthy lifestyles
* Ability to teach various sports
* Experience working with clients with physical health conditions
* Experience in healthcare or mental health settings
* Personal experience of mental health issues
* Owns a car/driver's license
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This position requires a DBS check due to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975. Applicants must undergo a DBS check for any previous convictions.
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