Job Overview
University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust is delighted to offer a fantastic opportunity to work with us. The post is for a Band 5 Occupational Therapist with experience, working in our large Therapy Services department in acute care. You will be posted to a variety of wards and rotate through over 11 clinical areas, with 6‑month rotations to broaden your knowledge and skills.
Main Duties
You will work alongside advanced and specialist clinicians, receiving regular supervision and in‑service training. Your responsibilities will include specialist assessments and interventions such as discharge planning, cognitive assessment, equipment fitting (pressure relief, bariatric handling, splinting, seating) and acute rehabilitation. You will also coordinate with Physiotherapists and Therapy Support staff in integrated care.
Training and Development
We run a 7‑day therapy service (including weekends and bank holidays) on a rota basis. You will have access to a formal appraisal programme, a one‑year preceptorship for those with less than one year of experience, and a personal development plan.
Eligibility and Preference
Applicants should be qualified Occupational Therapists, HCPC registered and able to treat patients with care, compassion and dignity. You should be comfortable working autonomously and as part of a team, and have a strong desire to work at UHS and in a rotational post. Knowledge of NHS systems is essential. If you are a newly qualified OT and ready to start before April 2026, please apply through our separate newly qualified advert.
Essential Skills and Qualifications
* Qualified Occupational Therapist
* HCPC registered
* Treat patients with care, compassion and dignity
* Comfortable working alone and as part of a wider team
* Good verbal and written communication skills
* Clear desire to work at UHS (to be stated in application)
* Clear desire for an acute hospital rotational post (to be stated in application)
* Knowledge and understanding of NHS systems
Desirable Skills
* Previous experience working in an acute hospital as a student or Band 5 OT
* Prior NHS experience
* Student placement at UHS (please reference in your application)
Interview Details
* Interviews are in‑person; no virtual alternatives will be offered.
* Practical assessments will be part of the interview process.
* Smart, comfortable clothing is required.
* Interviews will take place on the selected date; please confirm availability.
* We do not accept CV applications.
* Questions can be directed to Annette Purkis (email: Annette.Purkis@uhs.nhs.uk).
* We are happy to discuss flexibility in working hours during the interview.
Person Specification
Trust Values (Essential Criteria)
* Patients first
* Always Improving
* Working Together
Qualifications, Knowledge and Experience (Essential Criteria)
* Degree in Occupational Therapy or equivalent
* Current or pending HCPC registration
* Experience with a variety of physical and mental health conditions during student placements
* Experience fitting a range of equipment
* Experience working with support staff
* Experience working in multidisciplinary teams
* Evidence of continuing professional development
Skills and Competencies (Essential Criteria)
* Time management
* Prioritisation
* Working autonomously
* Taking initiative
Commitment to Inclusive Care
At UHS we champion individuality and are committed to creating an anti‑racist, anti‑discriminatory environment where everyone feels valued, safe and empowered. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, identities and experiences to join our diverse, inclusive team.
For more details or if you have questions, please email Annette.Purkis@uhs.nhs.uk.
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