Occupational Therapy Assistant in Colchester inColchester PUBLISHED WED 12 NOV 2025 Jump to job information section
Competitive rates
PERMANENT
AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER BLUE LIGHT CARD MENTAL HEALTH NHS OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY PARKING PENSION
Cygnet Health Care rqK00rRF
Job description
12‑month OT preceptorship with shadowing, induction and virtual Q&A to build your confidence
Expert clinical supervision from qualified OTs and access to a large OT network across services
Transparent pay steps, £28,612 → £29,137.50 after probation → £29,662.50 at 18 months
Meaningful hands‑on role in a 59‑bed Colchester hospital, working within a supportive MDT
Valuable staff perks, free parking, free meals on duty, relocation package and pension
Permanent 40‑hour post with an established provider (Cygnet, est. 1988) — ideal for carers seeking stability
Put your practical skills to work as an Occupational Therapy Assistant at Cygnet Hospital Colchester (CO4). In this full‑time, permanent role (40 hours/week) you will plan and deliver therapeutic activities under the supervision of a qualified Occupational Therapist for men with learning disabilities, autism spectrum conditions and mental health needs in a 59‑bed rehabilitation service. You’ll be part of a multidisciplinary team supporting assessment, stabilisation and recovery, helping service users move towards greater independence and community living.
This role suits caring, organised people who want hands‑on clinical experience and clear development pathways. Cygnet offers a robust induction and a 12‑month preceptorship, expert clinical supervision, dedicated CPD time and peer networking across a large OT directorate. Salary starts at £28,612, rising to £29,137.50 after probation and to £29,662.50 at 18 months, with benefits including free parking, staff meals, relocation support, pension and a wellbeing centre. For full details and to apply, click the "Apply Now" button alongside this advert or visit jobsincare.com.
This role suits caring, organised people who want hands‑on clinical experience and clear development pathways. Cygnet offers a robust induction and a 12‑month preceptorship, expert clinical supervision, dedicated CPD time and peer networking across a large OT directorate. Salary starts at £28,612, rising to £29,137.50 after probation and to £29,662.50 at 18 months, with benefits including free parking, staff meals, relocation support, pension and a wellbeing centre. For full details and to apply, click the "Apply Now" button alongside this advert or visit jobsincare.com.
12‑month OT preceptorship with shadowing, induction and virtual Q&A to build your confidence
Expert clinical supervision from qualified OTs and access to a large OT network across services
Transparent pay steps, £28,612 → £29,137.50 after probation → £29,662.50 at 18 months
Meaningful hands‑on role in a 59‑bed Colchester hospital, working within a supportive MDT
Valuable staff perks, free parking, free meals on duty, relocation package and pension
Permanent 40‑hour post with an established provider (Cygnet, est. 1988) — ideal for carers seeking stability
Not sure?
If you're interested in this role but you have questions or you're not yet ready to apply, then please book a quick call with us and we'd be happy to answer any questions you have and tell you more about the role.
If you're interested in this role but you have questions or you're not yet ready to apply, then please book a quick call with us and we'd be happy to answer any questions you have and tell you more about the role.
Requirements
See the job description for full role requirements.
Benefits
12‑month OT preceptorship with shadowing, induction and virtual Q&A to build your confidence; Expert clinical supervision from qualified OTs and access to a large OT network across services; Transparent pay steps: £28,612 → £29,137.50 after probation → £29,662.50 at 18 months; Meaningful hands‑on role in a 59‑bed Colchester hospital, working within a supportive MDT; Valuable staff perks: free parking, free meals on duty, relocation package and pension; Permanent 40‑hour post with an established provider (Cygnet, est. 1988) — ideal for carers seeking stability
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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 an Occupational Therapy Assistant:
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To work as an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) in the UK, you need a combination of specific skills, qualifications, and personal attributes. Here are some essential skills and requirements:
Educational Qualifications:
1. Relevant Qualification: While a degree is not always necessary, having a Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care or occupational therapy assistant-specific training can be beneficial.
2. General Education: Basic GCSEs, particularly in English and Maths, are often required.
Essential Skills:
1. Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills are crucial, as you will need to interact with patients, families, and healthcare professionals.
2. Interpersonal Skills: The ability to build rapport and establish trusting relationships with patients is vital.
3. Empathy and Compassion: Understanding and being sensitive to patients' needs and difficulties is fundamental to delivering good care.
4. Organizational Skills: Ability to manage time effectively, prioritize tasks, and keep accurate records.
5. Problem-Solving Skills: The capacity to think critically and develop practical solutions to support patients in achieving their occupational goals.
6. Teamwork: Ability to collaborate with occupational therapists and other healthcare professionals in a multidisciplinary environment.
7. Adaptability: Flexibility to adjust to different patient needs and varying work environments.
8. Technical Skills: Familiarity with assistive technologies or adaptive equipment can be beneficial.
9. Basic IT Skills: Proficiency with computers and software for maintaining records or using therapy-related applications.
Personal Attributes:
1. Patience: Working with individuals who may have differing levels of ability and progress requires patience.
2. Resilience: The ability to cope with the emotional challenges of working in healthcare settings.
3. Attention to Detail: Ensuring that therapy plans are followed accurately and that records are maintained correctly.
4. Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding and respecting the diverse backgrounds and needs of patients.
Experience:
- Relevant Experience: Experience in health and social care, whether through voluntary work, internships, or roles in similar settings, is highly valued.
Continuing Professional Development:
- Ongoing Training: Participating in training and professional development opportunities to stay informed about best practices and new techniques in occupational therapy.
inColchester
51.88970860329176 0.8993475309503719 Colchester 
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