Job Description

Music Therapy Assistant - Chelsea & Westminster Hospital



An opportunity exists for an individual interested in working with children with complex developmental needs within a well established Music Therapy Service.



We are recruiting for a Music Therapy Assistant; this post enables us to enhance our music therapy offer for children and families. We are looking for an enthusiastic individual who wishes to develop their skills working with children and families within a healthcare setting.



We provide music therapy across Child Development Centres in Hammersmith and Fulham, Kensington and Chelsea, and Westminster. We also offer support to local early years settings as well as training and consultation for professionals and parents/carers.



This post has excellent support and development opportunities which are particularly suited to someone at the beginning of their career who is looking to develop their experience and skills.



Please see job description and person specification on NHS jobs for full details. If you have any questions that aren't covered in the job description, contact the music therapy team: caw-tr.mtreferrals@nhs.net or 02033156472



To carry out designated tasks and activities relating to children's music therapy independently as delegated by a member of the music therapy team.



To work under the direction and appropriate supervision of the responsible music therapist although initiative is encouraged.



To take on administrative and practical roles to support music therapy provision across the service



To assist in maintaining a safe work environment



To participate in CPD and other developmental activities related to the area of work.



Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is one of England's top-performing and safest trusts. We operate two main acute hospital sites--Chelsea and Westminster Hospital and West Middlesex University Hospital--along with award-winning clinics across North West London.



Our nearly 7,500 staff care for a diverse population of 1.5 million, providing full clinical services, including maternity, A&E, and children's services, plus specialist HIV and sexual health clinics. The Care Quality Commission rates us 'Good' in safety, effectiveness, care, and responsiveness, and 'Outstanding' in leadership and resource use.



We continually invest in our facilities, including a 30m expansion of critical care at Chelsea and Westminster and an 80m Ambulatory Diagnostic Centre at West Middlesex.



We welcome applications for flexible working arrangements, accommodating requests where possible to support our staff and patient needs.



The Trust is committed to equality and welcomes applications from all, regardless of background. Adjustments can be made for disabled candidates. Early application is advised as vacancies may close once sufficient applications are received. If you haven't heard from us within three weeks of the closing date, your application was likely unsuccessful. Employment is subject to a six-month probationary period.



Some roles may require weekend shifts at multiple sites.



ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Clinical:

To work closely with parents and carers to understand the needs of the child and family, and the ways in which music therapy might help. To support specialist music therapy assessment and treatment for children presenting with a wide range of developmental needs To carry out the appropriate tasks that have been selected and delegated by a music therapist. It is the joint responsibility of the therapy assistant and their supervisor to ensure the assistant is competent and confident in carrying out required duties. These may involve assisting in therapy sessions, liaison with families, and working with MDT colleagues. To communicate with children and families about music therapy appointments, information and resources. Participating in the maintenance and cleaning of music therapy equipment and resources. To participate in maintenance of clinical areas in accordance with the health and safety policy and departmental procedures. To comply with the Trust policy on confidentiality, maintaining strict confidentiality regarding any information pertaining to clients and their families. To attend and actively participate in in-service training as required. To attend staff and team meetings as required To travel between sites as required using own, hospital or public transport. To work in community settings (schools, nurseries, children's centres) under direct supervision of a music therapist when needed. To demonstrate a sensitive approach to the diverse needs of the children and families who access the service. To adhere to Trust policies relating to confidentiality in dealing with patients and their families, in the context of ongoing highly distressing circumstances including child safeguarding procedures. To carry out practical, clinically related tasks as necessary. For example, storing and maintaining equipment, and organising the clinical environment. Understand the Trust clinical governance framework, and participate in the promoting and safeguarding of high standards of care, through effective risk management & governance, and adherence to the Trust values

2. Administration:

To participate in the smooth running of work areas by undertaking administrative tasks e.g. making appointments, telephone calls and other clerical activities. To keep regular and up to date records, either written or electronic, and assist the therapists as necessary with departmental statistics. To make initial, follow-up, and alter appointments for patients on the Trust electronic patient system according to department procedures. Inform families of appointments by letter or telephone as required. Work with the team to monitor and maintain equipment levels. Registering client referrals on the departmental computer system. Booking interpreters via Trust process. To be able to use good communication skills with children, carers, and staff including those with communication difficulties or for whom English is an additional language. Dealing with clients/ relative's queries both in person and on the telephone courteously and efficiently. To report all complaints and accidents to the immediate senior member of staff as soon as possible and document accordingly.

3. Personal development:

To ensure that all mandatory training is completed within the required timescales. To participate in the PDR system and be responsible for fulfilling personal agreed objectives and personal development plan. To ensure adherence to Trust policy and guidelines at all times To role model Trust values at all times

4. Communication:

To liaise with the music therapy team regarding patient care and report to the supervising therapist any change in the clients condition. To communicate with other members of the multidisciplinary team, carers, external agencies and those related to the patient's care. To use effective communication with clients or relatives who have barriers to understanding or communicating. e.g. visually impaired, hearing or speech disability and to be aware of any device e.g. hearing aids which may affect communication To deal sensitively with clients and carers who may be managing complex or difficult situations. To actively participate in supervision with a music therapist to reflect on clinical work, review own performance and identify training and development needs. To be able to use digital equipment to assist with music therapy clinical work (such as recording of sessions, virtual appointments)

This job description may be subject to change according to the varying needs of the service. Such changes will be made after discussion between the post holder and his/her manager.

All duties must be carried out under supervision or within Trust policy and procedure. You must never undertake any duties that are outside your area of skill or knowledge level. If you are unsure you must seek clarification from a more senior member of staff.