Occupational Therapy Assistant Full Time NEW

Job OverviewThis role supports the delivery of high-quality, evidence-based care within an inpatient mental health service for children and adolescents. The Occupational Therapy Assistant will work under the direction of the Occupational Therapy team, contributing to the delivery of a structured therapeutic programme focused on occupational science, engagement and participation in meaningful daily activities.The post holder will assist qualified Occupational Therapists in supporting young people to develop skills, routines, and independence as part of their recovery. This role is particularly suited to individuals who are motivated, passionate about working with young people and interested in pursuing a future career in Occupational Therapy.Main duties of the jobSupport the Occupational Therapy team in delivering evidence-based therapeutic groupsAssist in planning and running the ward’s therapeutic programmeImplement recommendations from Occupational Therapy assessmentsEncourage and support young people to engage in meaningful daily activities and routinesProvide one-to-one and group-based support to promote participation and recoveryMaintain accurate and timely clinical records in line with service standardsWork collaboratively with the multidisciplinary team to support patient careContribute to creating a safe, structured and therapeutic environmentDetailed Job Description And Main ResponsibilitiesThe post holder will work under the supervision and direction of qualified Occupational Therapists and will be professionally accountable to the Occupational Therapy team. The role will have a strong focus on occupational science, supporting engagement in meaningful activities and enabling young people to build structure and routine in their daily lives.The Occupational Therapy Assistant will support the delivery of therapeutic groups and the wider programme, ensuring interventions are engaging, developmentally appropriate and aligned with evidence-based practice. They will be responsible for implementing recommendations from formal Occupational Therapy assessments and supporting young people on a one-to-one basis to increase participation and independence.The role requires an enthusiastic and proactive individual who is motivated to work with children and adolescents experiencing mental health difficulties. The post holder should demonstrate a genuine passion for supporting recovery, improving engagement and promoting wellbeing through activity and routine.They will be expected to manage their time effectively, work both independently and as part of a team and maintain high standards of communication and documentation. The role offers valuable experience for individuals considering further study or training in Occupational Therapy and an interest in developing within the profession is strongly encouraged.Starting with NELFTNELFT place a great deal of importance on new starters being properly welcomed and inducted into the Trust. All new starters will join the Trust on the first Monday of each month and will undertake a comprehensive induction of up to two weeks which will include mandatory training, systems training and the allocation of equipment. As part of the process new starters will have the opportunity to also meet the executive team, senior managers and attend a number of drop-in sessions focusing on engagement, health and wellbeing and key processes. The induction will be held at our head office in Rainham, Essex.Probationary Period This post will be subject to a probationary period.High Cost Area Supplement Outer London (B&D, Redbridge, Havering and Waltham Forest, CEME)This post also attracts payment for High Cost Area Supplement of 15% of the basic salary (with a minimum of £4,714 to a maximum of £5,941 p.a. pro rata for part time).Working for UsJoining #TeamNELFT means you’ll become part of a welcoming and supportive working environment. We’re CQC rated Good, and we want you to join us on the journey towards an Outstanding rating. NELFT has sites across North East London and Essex. We provide community and mental healthcare services to adults and children within these areas.The Trust has award-winning equality and diversity initiatives, along with staff health and wellbeing activities. We invest significantly in your development because when you feel valued and supported, we can deliver the highest quality care to our patients. We are a Level 3 Disability Confident Leader, have been recognised in the Working Families Top 10 Employers benchmark for five consecutive years, and hold a Carers UK Level 1 Accreditation. Through our staff networks and training opportunities, we strive to foster a just and compassionate culture at NELFT.