Job overview
This is an exciting opportunity for an individual from a Sport and fitness background to work as part of a dedicated team of Health & Fitness staff within the Rehabilitation Therapy Service based at Broadmoor Hospital in Berkshire which is a high security, forensic hospital.
Successful applicants require a minimum of a level 2 Gym Instructor qualification and will support The Health and Fitness senior team with the planning of group and individual fitness and exercise programmes for patients. To support and encourage patients with acute and enduring mental illness to engage in a variety of different environments, including on Ward Gym, Main Fitness Suite, indoor Sports Hall, Outdoor 3G Polymeric Multi-Use Games Area and a Fitness Studio.
Main duties of the job
The Health and Fitness assistant works with other disciplines to activity motivate patients and helps them to engage in physical activities and sports. They will be expected to work as a team member and follow the guidance of senior staff.
Health and Fitness team offer a weekly programme of activities for patients on every ward in the hospital. There is also a need for all staff in the team to take a role in the department safety procedures, such as daily searches of patients and the environment, preparation work for sessions, undertaking patient observations, escorting patients and helping with the management of patient incompatibilities.
Working for our organisation
West London NHS Trust is one of the most diverse healthcare providers in the UK, delivering a range of mental health and physical healthcare and community services. The Trust runs Broadmoor Hospital, one of three high secure hospitals in the country, with an international reputation.
Our high secure services care for patients from South of England and we provide low and medium secure services across eight London boroughs. The Trust also provides mental and physical healthcare in three London boroughs (Ealing, Hounslow and Hammersmith & Fulham). We employ over 5,000 staff, of whom 59% are BME. Our turnover for 2024-25 is over £500m.
The Trust is rated as ‘Good’ overall by the Care Quality Commission. Forensic services are rated as ‘Outstanding’.
The Trust is an established partner and contributor in the development of the evolving North West London Integrated Care System and the Integrated Care Board. The Trust leads the NW London Children and Adolescent Mental Health provider collaborative.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
The Candidate Pack provides an overview of the key tasks and responsibilities of the role, and the person specification outlines the qualifications, skills, experience and knowledge required. Please view as attached.
The person specification below is not the full person specification, but outlines the criteria against which your application form will be assessed.
Person specification
Qualifications and Training
Essential criteria
1. Good general education with minimum of 2 CSE, GCSE PE
2. BTEC in PE
3. To have a relevant Sports or Gym qualification (Level 2 Gym Instructor)
Desirable criteria
4. Motivation and Engagement Training
5. Degree in a relevant area
6. Recognised coaching qualification
Experience
Essential criteria
7. Relevant experience in care of a person who has mental health problems
8. Experience motivating and engaging people
9. Experience at working with others on implementing a new activity.
Desirable criteria
10. Experience working in a care environment
Knowledge
Essential criteria
11. To have a working knowledge of the importance of grading physical Activity for patients’ needs.
12. Evidence in mental health awareness
Desirable criteria
13. Knowledge of wider NHS papers or policies or CQUIN’s relevant to Mental Health
Personal Qualities
Essential criteria
14. Able to communicate effectively with staff at all levels
15. Ability to work autonomously if directed by band 5.
16. Clear effective session planning
17. Good IT skills
18. Good time management skills.
Desirable criteria
19. Demonstrate a positive attitude to change.
20. To have an enquiring approach to service development