Job Summary
A Band 4 Clinical Exercise Therapist is needed for our Forensic Inpatient Service at South West London and St Georges Mental Health NHS Trust. The role supports a multidisciplinary team on medium and low secure wards, delivering exercise interventions for patients with serious mental health needs.
Main Responsibilities
* Assess suitability of service users for exercise, applying American College of Sports Medicine guidelines where appropriate.
* Discuss medical contraindications and collaborate with ward medical staff.
* Develop sport/exercise therapy programmes tailored to individual needs, taking interests, limitations, culture and history into account.
* Lead gym and sports sessions for individuals and groups, promoting choice, independence, privacy and dignity.
* Maintain and audit fitness equipment in line with Trust health & safety standards.
* Review and evaluate service‑user progress, treatment plans and risk assessments, adjusting programmes accordingly.
* Assess and manage risk and challenging behaviour within clinical settings.
* Educate service users on healthy lifestyles, including exercise, nutrition, weight management and smoking cessation.
* Organise and manage caseload effectively.
Essential Training & Qualifications
* Level 2 Gym Instructor qualification (e.g., YMCA) or equivalent.
* L1 Sports Coaching Award or coaching experience and willingness to progress to this level.
* Level 3 GP Exercise Referral certificate.
* Level 3/4 CIMSPA registration number (must be provided).
Desirable Training & Qualifications
* ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist.
* ACSM/NCHPAD Certified Inclusive Fitness Trainer.
* Degree in Sports Science or equivalent sports‑related discipline.
* Level 4 Certificates in Exercise & Mental Health.
Experience
* Practical experience as a gym instructor working with groups and individuals, including screening and programme design.
* Coaching/leading sports activities for users of differing abilities.
* Experience advising on healthy lifestyle issues (optional).
* Ability to teach a range of sports such as swimming, football, badminton, volleyball, basketball, etc. (optional).
* Experience working with service users who have physical and mental health conditions (optional).
Knowledge and Skills
* Ability to work under pressure, in a multidisciplinary team, and to lead healthy‑lifestyle groups.
* Strong group work and communication skills.
* Effective team work and collaboration.
* Understanding of working with people with mental health needs and awareness of common mental health conditions (optional).
Additional Information
Salary: £33,094 to £36,195 per year pro‑rated, inclusive of inner London HCAS. Contract: Permanent, part‑time. Working location: Springfield University Hospital, 15 Springfield Drive, London SW17 0YF.
Applicants must have current UK professional registration and right to work evidence. Sponsorship is not required unless otherwise stated.
Note: This post requires a Disclosure and Barring Service check under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975.
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