Job Title: Housing & Manual Handling Occupational Therapist
Location: Southend-on-Sea with travel to Saffron Walden
Type: Permanent
Shift Pattern: Part time/full tine
Salary: £36,000 - £38,000 per annum, depending on experience
Sanctuary Personnel are seeking a talented and creative Occupational Therapist to join our client's growing team. This role primarily involves working on local authority projects, delivering both major and minor home adaptations and specialist equipment to improve clients' safety and independence. A solid understanding of specialist equipment, adaptations, and manual handling is essential for recommending effective solutions. Opportunities for professional development and training are available.
About Our Client:
Our client are a leading private practice specialising in occupational therapy for housing adaptations. Their focus is on designing and modifying homes to enhance independence for individuals with severe injuries and those involved in litigation claims. Additionally, they support local authority adaptations teams, providing solutions for clients with chronic medical conditions across all age groups.
Job Overview:
In this role, you will conduct assessments as part of the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) process, evaluating the housing needs of individuals with disabilities. Your role will involve devising practical solutions to address the unique challenges faced by your clients. Your work will significantly impact the quality of life for those requiring adaptations to overcome environmental barriers.
Travel and Transport:
This role is primarily based in Southend-on-Sea, with a requirement to travel to the office in Saffron Walden at least one day per week (more initially during training and onboarding). Some flexibility with working hours is possible, and remote work options are available when appropriate.
Key Responsibilities and Duties:
- Work with adults and children to address their housing needs, including those with physical, sensory, and mental health issues, as well as wheelchair users.
- Identify and mitigate risks in the home environment.
- Document your work and clinical reasoning effectively, including writing case notes, reports, and specifications, and presenting cases in various forums.
- Travel by car to support clients in the Southend-on-Sea area and to our Saffron Walden office at least one day a week. A valid driving licence and suitable transport are required. Mileage expenses will be reimbursed.
About You:
You will excel in this role if you have 2-3 years of experience as an Occupational Therapist with a focus on housing and manual handling. A passion for improving lives and a desire for career development are crucial. As part of a small, supportive team, you will contribute to a positive and caring work environment.
Qualifications and Requirements:
Experience:
- 2-3 years of occupational therapy experience specialising in housing and manual handling.
- Experience working with surveyors, architects, building trades, and planning departments.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Proficient in assessment, problem-solving, and clinical reasoning.
- Commitment to ongoing professional development.
- Self-motivated with the ability to work autonomously and as part of a team.
- Ability to prioritise workload and work with minimal supervision.
- Basic IT skills and the capacity to learn new systems, including CRM and OneDrive. Training will be provided.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree in Occupational Therapy.
- Registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
- Membership with the Royal College of Occupational Therapy.
- Current driving licence and access to transport (travel expenses paid per HMRC guidelines).
- Up-to-date first aid, manual handling, and safeguarding training.
Knowledge:
- Government legislation and guidance relevant to the service area.
- Benefits and grants available for people with disabilities.
- Understanding of the impact of disability on individuals.
- Knowledge of building materials, design, structure, construction processes, and key roles within them.
Core Competencies:
- Client Service: Ability to respond to and anticipate client needs.
- Analytical Thinking: Logical problem-solving skills.
- Creative Thinking and Flexibility: Innovative and adaptable approach to developing new strategies.
- Initiative and Decision Making: Capability to make informed decisions and take responsibility.
- Excellent Communication: Effective use of language to gather information and facilitate idea exchange.
If you are a dedicated Occupational Therapist looking to make a difference in people's lives while advancing your career, we would love to hear from you. Apply today through Sanctuary Personnel to join our client's dynamic team!
