Senior Occupational Therapist inActon inActon PUBLISHED TUE 5 NOV 2024

Band 6: £42,939 to £50,697 a year per annum inclusive of 15% HCAS PERMANENT GOOD SALARY

DEMENTIA ENVIRONMENTAL MODIFICATION FAMILY HOLISTIC MENTAL HEALTH NHS OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

West London NHS Trust rmGDopzK

The West London NHS Trust is seeking a Senior Occupational Therapist to join their team in Acton, specializing in cognitive impairment and dementia services within the London Borough of Ealing. This community-based position, part of the older people's mental health service line, focuses on delivering comprehensive care to patients experiencing cognitive challenges. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of a B7 Specialist Occupational Therapist, supervising Therapy Assistants, apprentices, and students, while actively participating in the wider multidisciplinary team.

Key responsibilities include conducting thorough assessments, providing pre- and post-diagnostic support, and implementing holistic interventions, such as cognitive rehabilitation and environmental modifications. The role also involves collaboration with activity coordinators and psychology colleagues to facilitate therapeutic activities. The Occupational Therapy team is diverse and supported by an extensive induction and training program, enhancing integration for new team members.

We are looking for an experienced Occupational Therapist, interested to join a team of enthusiastic and committed professionals in delivering the Prime Minister's Challenge on Dementia (2and the NHS Long Term Plan for Older Adults Mental Health services (2in the London Borough of Ealing.

West London NHS Trust, Cognitive Impairment and Dementia services deliver specialist care to patients in the locality who are experiencing cognitive problems & dementia that impacts upon their abilities to carry out activities of daily living.

This post is a community-based Senior Occupational Therapist. They will work under the supervision of a B7 Specialist Occupational Therapist and they will be responsible in supervising Therapy Assistant, OT apprentice and/ or OT students. They will also be part of the wider OPMHS Occupational therapy team across the three boroughs.

This is a B6 post is based in the vibrant London Borough of Ealing.

The post holder will be an integral part of the multidisciplinary team and the wider occupational therapy team within the older people's mental health service line. Patients who are referred to this service are those with cognitive impairment who are requiring for dementia screening and potential diagnosis.

The Occupational Therapy service provides pre- and post-diagnostic support, including cognitive rehabilitation, environmental modifications, advice on dementia design, equipment provision, and advice to carers/family members. Occupational therapy services conduct comprehensive assessments using standardised and non-standardised assessments to provide holistic interventions. They also collaborate with activity coordinators and psychology colleagues to facilitate group and individual therapeutic activities, either in the clinic or through electronic platforms.

The older people's mental health service (OPMHS) was previously known as cognitive impairment and dementia services (CIDS). We still offer the same services with the addition of provision for older people with severe and enduring mental health difficulties.

OPMHS OT team is a large and diverse team, which includes team members who have trained overseas. We have a robust induction and training programme to integrate new team members in the Trust and the service line.

About us
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.

More information related to this job opportunity, from jobsincare:

Possible interview questions for this job Click to view Start practice interview NEW!

Please wait...this will take a moment...

More about the NHS

The National Health Service (NHS) is a cornerstone of healthcare in the United Kingdom, established in 1948 with the simple yet profound principle of providing healthcare to all citizens, free at the point of use. This revolutionary system aimed to ensure that access to medical services would not depend on an individual’s financial situation, a concept that has since become fundamental to British societal values. Learn more...

More about MENTAL HEALTH

Mental health has emerged as a critical issue in the United Kingdom, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The crisis highlighted the fragility of mental well-being across different demographics, from children and adolescents to adults and the elderly. It has sparked a wider conversation about the importance of mental health care, accessibility, and the stigmas often associated with mental illnesses. Learn more...

Useful skills for a Senior Occupational Therapist: Click to view

To work as a Senior Occupational Therapist in the UK, you'll need a combination of educational qualifications, clinical skills, and soft skills. Here’s a breakdown of the essential skills and qualifications:

Educational Qualifications

1. Degree in Occupational Therapy: A recognized qualification, such as a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy.

2. HCPC Registration: You must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) to practice as an occupational therapist in the UK.

Clinical Skills

1. Advanced Assessment Skills: Ability to perform comprehensive assessments of individuals' needs, strengths, and challenges.

2. Intervention Planning: Skills in developing and implementing personalized intervention plans to support individuals in achieving their goals.

3. Rehabilitation Techniques: Proficiency in various rehabilitation methods, including therapeutic exercises, adaptive techniques, and assistive technology.

4. Knowledge of Conditions: Strong understanding of physical, mental, and developmental health issues, as well as age-related conditions.

5. Team Collaboration: Experience working in multidisciplinary teams to coordinate care and support for clients.

Professional Skills

1. Case Management: Skills in managing a caseload effectively, ensuring appropriate and timely interventions.

2. Supervisory Skills: Ability to mentor and supervise junior therapists and support staff, providing guidance and support in clinical practice.

3. Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Understanding of current research and best practices in occupational therapy to inform clinical decisions.

Soft Skills

1. Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication abilities to effectively interact with clients, families, and interdisciplinary teams.

2. Empathy and Compassion: The ability to understand and relate to clients’ experiences and needs, fostering a supportive therapeutic relationship.

3. Problem-Solving Abilities: Critical thinking and adaptability to address complex patient needs and develop creative solutions.

4. Time Management: Ability to prioritize tasks, manage a sizable caseload, and meet deadlines efficiently.

Additional Skills

1. Cultural Competency: Understanding and respecting diverse backgrounds and cultures to provide inclusive care.

2. Continuing Professional Development: Commitment to ongoing learning and professional development to stay updated with the latest practices and standards in occupational therapy.

Qualifications for Senior Roles

- Experience: Significant experience in the field, typically at least 3-5 years post-qualification, with experience in specific areas of occupational therapy.

- Specialization: Additional training or certifications in specialized areas of occupational therapy (e.g., pediatrics, geriatrics, mental health, etc.) can be advantageous.