Occupational Therapy Assistant

The post holder will plan and facilitate therapeutic activities on and off the ward according to patients needs, within the framework laid down by the supervising Occupational Therapist. The post holder will also carry out individual interventions in the community and in peoples homes, as directed by qualified staff. The successful post holder will need to have a passion for working with people experiencing mental health conditions, whilst being flexible, motivated and a team player. The post holder will be required to have a high level of adaptable communication skills, be compassionate, respectful and value individual patient needs., Working as part of the OT service for adults with a mental illness in the acute and inpatient care network, the post holder will support and assist the qualified OTs. The post holder will plan and facilitate therapeutic activities on and off the ward according to patients needs, within the framework laid down by the supervising OT. The post holder may also carry out individual interventions in the community and in peoples homes, as directed by qualified staff. The post holder will contribute towards the development of an innovative and needs led OT service.

We not only recruit based on qualifications & experience - we recruit individuals who possess & demonstrate the behaviours which underpin our Trusts core values. These include such attributes as showing a commitment to quality of care, improving lives of others, giving respect, dignity & compassion. We can bring those values to life in our everyday tasks by giving a smile; making time for people; challenging ourselves & others, & being open to new ideas. We are committed to being an inclusive employer & applications are encouraged & welcomed from all sections of the community, regardless of any protected characteristics as governed by the Equality Act 2010. Part time & flexible working applications will be considered & supported, where possible. We particularly encourage applicants with lived experience of mental health conditions, neurodiversity or learning disabilities. We are a Disability Confident Leader.,

• Knowledge of mental health and basic understanding of physical health presentation
• Understanding of how Occupational Therapy works for patients in a mental health setting.
• Awareness of safeguarding principles
• IT Skills and good written communication
• Ability to work in a team effectively, Basic Education up to GCSE level or equivalent
• Completion of Care Certificate or equivalent, or the ability to complete this within the first 6 months of commencing in post., NVQ Level 3, QCF Level 3 in Health and Social Care or equivalent qualification
• Other relevant training or development relevant to working within Mental Health Settings, Previous employment / experience of working with people in a caring situation, Previous care experience with people who have mental health difficulties
• Proven ability to support patients to engage in a range of therapeutic activities.
  
  Our professional responsibility is to reduce the risk of infection to others as far as possible. Getting vaccinated against diseases that can be passed person-to-person in healthcare settings is part of this responsibility. The Trust will provide advice, guidance and support on vaccinations and access to vaccinations where requested., About Devon Partnership Trust
We provide mental health, learning disability and neurodiversity services, as well as a range of specialist & secure services for the wider south west region & nationally. We are passionate about promoting good mental health & wellbeing. We strive to use the expertise & resources within our organisation, and through our partnerships, to deliver high quality services that are safe & focused on people's recovery. We are committed to developing a culture of coproduction, involving patients, families & carers in everything we do