Job Title: Housing & Manual Handling Occupational Therapist
Location: Southend-on-Sea, with travel to Saffron Walden
Type: Permanent
Shift Pattern: Part-time / Full-time
Salary: £36,000 - £38,000 per annum, depending on experience
Sanctuary Personnel is seeking a talented and creative Occupational Therapist to join our client's growing team. This role focuses on local authority projects, delivering both major and minor home adaptations and specialist equipment to enhance the safety and independence of clients. A deep understanding of specialist equipment, adaptations, and manual handling is essential in recommending effective solutions. Professional development and training opportunities are available to support your career growth.
About Our Client:
Our client is a leading private practice specialising in occupational therapy for housing adaptations. They focus on modifying homes to enhance independence for individuals with severe injuries or those involved in litigation claims. They also work with local authority teams to provide adaptations for clients with chronic medical conditions across all age groups.
Job Overview:
As part of the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) process, you will assess the housing needs of individuals with disabilities. You will develop practical solutions to overcome environmental barriers and improve clients' quality of life. Your contributions will have a lasting impact on individuals who need adaptations to live more independently in their homes.
Travel and Transport:
This role is based in Southend-on-Sea, with a requirement to travel to the office in Saffron Walden at least once a week (more frequently during initial training and onboarding). Some flexibility with working hours is available, and remote work options can be arranged where suitable.
Key Responsibilities and Duties:
- Conduct assessments for adults and children, addressing housing needs for those with physical, sensory, and mental health issues, as well as wheelchair users.
- Identify and mitigate risks within the home environment.
- Document clinical reasoning, case notes, reports, and specifications clearly and accurately.
- Present cases in various forums to ensure the best outcomes for clients.
- Travel by car to support clients in Southend-on-Sea and to the Saffron Walden office. A valid driving licence and reliable transport are required. Mileage expenses will be reimbursed.
About You:
You will thrive in this role if you have 2-3 years of experience as an Occupational Therapist, specialising in housing and manual handling. A passion for improving lives and a commitment to career development are essential. Working as part of a small, supportive team, you will foster a positive and collaborative environment.
Qualifications and Requirements:
Experience:
- 2-3 years of occupational therapy experience with a focus on housing and manual handling.
- Experience collaborating with surveyors, architects, building trades, and planning departments.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Proficient in assessment, clinical reasoning, and problem-solving.
- Self-motivated and able to work independently as well as part of a team.
- Ability to prioritise tasks and work with minimal supervision.
- Basic IT skills and willingness to learn new systems (e.g., CRM, 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 will be reimbursed per HMRC guidelines).
- Up-to-date first aid, manual handling, and safeguarding training.
Knowledge:
- Familiarity with government legislation and guidance relevant to housing adaptations.
- Understanding of benefits and grants for people with disabilities.
- Awareness of the impact of disability on individuals.
- Knowledge of building materials, design, structure, and construction processes.
Core Competencies:
- Client Service: Anticipating and responding to client needs with professionalism and empathy.
- Analytical Thinking: Logical and effective problem-solving skills.
- Creative Thinking & Flexibility: Developing innovative solutions and adapting strategies to meet clients' needs.
- Initiative & Decision-Making: Taking responsibility for decisions and outcomes.
- Communication: Clear and concise communication to gather information and facilitate collaboration.
This role is advertised by Craig Osbourne, If you're a dedicated Occupational Therapist looking to make a meaningful 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 and supportive team!