Job Overview
This role supports the delivery of high-quality, evidence-based care within an inpatient mental health service for children and adolescents. The Occupational Therapy Assistant will work under the direction of the Occupational Therapy team, contributing to the delivery of a structured therapeutic programme focused on occupational science, engagement and participation in meaningful daily activities.
The post holder will assist qualified Occupational Therapists in supporting young people to develop skills, routines, and independence as part of their recovery. This role is particularly suited to individuals who are motivated, passionate about working with young people and interested in pursuing a future career in Occupational Therapy.
Main duties of the job
* Support the Occupational Therapy team in delivering evidence-based therapeutic groups
* Assist in planning and running the ward’s therapeutic programme
* Implement recommendations from Occupational Therapy assessments
* Encourage and support young people to engage in meaningful daily activities and routines
* Provide one-to-one and group-based support to promote participation and recovery
* Maintain accurate and timely clinical records in line with service standards
* Work collaboratively with the multidisciplinary team to support patient care
* Contribute to creating a safe, structured and therapeutic environment
Detailed Job Description And Main Responsibilities
The post holder will work under the supervision and direction of qualified Occupational Therapists and will be professionally accountable to the Occupational Therapy team. The role will have a strong focus on occupational science, supporting engagement in meaningful activities and enabling young people to build structure and routine in their daily lives.
The Occupational Therapy Assistant will support the delivery of therapeutic groups and the wider programme, ensuring interventions are engaging, developmentally appropriate and aligned with evidence-based practice. They will be responsible for implementing recommendations from formal Occupational Therapy assessments and supporting young people on a one-to-one basis to increase participation and independence.
The role requires an enthusiastic and proactive individual who is motivated to work with children and adolescents experiencing mental health difficulties. The post holder should demonstrate a genuine passion for supporting recovery, improving engagement and promoting wellbeing through activity and routine.
They will be expected to manage their time effectively, work both independently and as part of a team and maintain high standards of communication and documentation. The role offers valuable experience for individuals considering further study or training in Occupational Therapy and an interest in developing within the profession is strongly encouraged.
Starting with NELFT
NELFT places a great deal of importance on new starters being properly welcomed and inducted into the Trust. All new starters will join the Trust on the first Monday of each month and will undertake a comprehensive induction of up to two weeks which will include mandatory training, systems training and the allocation of equipment. As part of the process new starters will have the opportunity to also meet the executive team, senior managers and attend a number of drop‑in sessions focusing on engagement, health and wellbeing and key processes. The induction will be held at our head office in Rainham, Essex.
Probationary Period
This post will be subject to a probationary period.
High Cost Area Supplement Outer London
This post also attracts payment for High Cost Area Supplement of 15% of the basic salary (with a minimum of £4,714 to a maximum of £5,941 p.a. pro rata for part time).
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