Occupational Therapist in Housing inChelmsford inChelmsford PUBLISHED 17 DEC 2023

This role will involve...

• Completing holistic assessments that include all housing factors impacting on the individual and their household
• Working alongside Health colleagues to assist with processing referrals to achieve safe, early discharge and prevent delays
• Referring to universal services where appropriate and liaising with other colleagues, including Family Operations, to meet the needs of the individual
• Seeking to resolve needs associated with specific impairments by the provision of equipment, support and signposting to alternative services where appropriate
• Making recommendations based on assessed need, for the provision of certain property types, adaptations and equipment, taking account of both Health and Housing policy and legislation
• Progressing and supporting recommendations where specialist input is required
• Working alongside Housing Officers to support Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) funded recommendations
• Ensuring referrals are progressed effectively so that adaptations are completed efficiently
• Being creative in developing the services provided by Housing by working with local and district councils to provide the best possible solutions for those adults and children who have the greatest need thereby reducing the length of time spent in hospital, hospice of residential/ nursing care
• Managing cases that have been assessed by a Health or Social Care OT to support the Housing Officer

About You

To apply, youll need a degree or diploma in Occupational Therapy, or equivalent qualification, with current Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registration.

Youll bring experience of Occupational Therapy, modelling good practice and providing advice and guidance in complex situations. As, as a subject matter expert in relevant professional practice, you should have a comprehensive understanding of current legislation, regulations and guidance. Also, the ability to develop strong relationships with partner agencies and the local community to provide a supportive framework for vulnerable adults. The post holder must be confident in person-centred and positive risk-taking approaches.

This role involves travelling throughout Essex. A driving licence and car - or the ability to meet the mobility requirements of the role through other means - is essential

This is an exciting opportunity for a housing Occupational Therapist to develop and support local district and borough councils. As an OT you will be working alongside Environmental Health and Housing Officers within in the quadrants to facilitate the safe and early discharge of people from hospital, residential/nursing placements and hospices.

You will join a knowledgeable and supportive team, who are proud of creating an inclusive environment where we build each other up. And, with access to a range of training and development opportunities to empower you through our award-winning Essex Social Care Academy along with flexible working options, you can make your career work for you.

This post will provide the opportunity to work with adults and children with life-limiting conditions and life-altering injuries to prevent formal care placements where their home environment is not currently suited to their assessed needs.

This work is essential to ensure discharges are not delayed because of the need for adaptations and issues related to housing needs.