Job Description

University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust is delighted to offer a fantastic opportunity to work with us.



Please see below for the detailed job description of the role.



An 11m fixed-term opportunity has arisen for an Occupational Therapist to join our excellent Regional Wessex Neurosciences Centre at University Hospital Southampton as a Band 6, covering maternity leave. This post is a full-time (1 wte) opportunity working primarily in neurosurgery & neurology services; however, it is part of the wider neurosciences team, with close links to the hyper acute stroke, stroke rehabilitation, and spinal service. This allows staff to gain a wider experience and knowledge across neurosciences according to the service needs, with the possibility of working in the other clinical areas in future.



We are looking for a skilled and dynamic occupational therapist to provide senior clinical and operational leadership, alongside the current senior therapists within the UHS neurosciences team and assist with the strategic development of the therapy service within neurosciences.



You will work as part of a combined therapy services team delivering patient care across a 7-day service, including weekends and bank holidays, on a roster basis.



This post is part of the wider Therapy Services department. You will have many opportunities to develop new skills and knowledge through our in-service training. You will be part of a large department of over 300 Therapy staff, including Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists and Therapy support staff.



University Hospital Southampton is one of England's largest acute teaching Trusts, offering a wide range of learning and development opportunities to support your career aspirations.



Located on the south coast with an international airport and direct rail links to London, Southampton offers an ideal setting to live and work, with the New Forest, South Downs and Jurassic Coast.



We believe that using technology wisely shows strong time management and commitment to innovation. However, personalizing your recruitment application to highlight your unique skills and experiences is crucial. Relying too heavily on generic, AI-generated content instead of drawing from your own strengths and accomplishments may lead to your application being rejected if multiple candidates present identical or similar information.



At UHS we're committed to providing a flexible working environment where possible. Whether you are balancing family, study, or your wellbeing with your career, we want to support you so you can help our patients.



At UHS, we proudly champion individuality, recognizing that outstanding care is only possible with a diverse, inclusive team. We're committed to creating an anti-racist, anti-discriminatory environment where everyone feels valued, safe, and empowered to make a meaningful impact in our communities. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to join us in building a healthcare community where everyone can belong, thrive, and contribute.



We are looking for a dynamic and enthusiastic Occupational Therapist who wishes to progress their career and specialise in neurosciences for 11 months. You will be completing specialised neuro-specific assessments, goal-directed treatments & multi-therapy discharge planning. You will be required to liaise closely with local community services, specialist regional units & local DGHs.



There is regular clinical supervision as well as peer support. There are also opportunities for involvement in audit, research & service development is always encouraged as we strive for new & innovative ways of working.



This post is suitable for an experienced B5 OT looking to advance to B6, or a B6 who wishes to gain specific neurosciences skills in an acute setting.



Attached you will find the person specification document, which provides more detail about the essential and desirable skills and experience needed for this role; however, you also need to demonstrate the following specific skills and knowledge:

Essential skills:

Postgraduate experience of working in the acute hospital setting, including working with neurological patients and undertaking neurological assessments Clearly expressed desire to work in neurosciences, and within UHS Therapies, on your application form.

Desirable skills needed:

Postgraduate experience in supervising other staff or students Evidence of providing teaching to therapy staff and students Evidence of emerging leadership skills

Please note:

This is NOT a post for a newly qualified graduate, please enquire about B5 opportunities. Recent unsuccessful B6 OT applicants should not apply for this position. We do not accept CV applications Interviews will be held in person on 21st Nov 2025 As part of the interview involves a practical assessment, please wear smart, comfortable clothing. We may be able to offer a permanent position by the interview date, so please apply if this is what you are seeking and indicate this on your application form.

Please ensure you fulfil all the essential criteria and have read the job description before applying.

We actively encourage all potential applicants to contact us to ask any questions they may have.



If this post is not for you and you are interested in finding out about other Therapy opportunities, please email Annette.Purkis@uhs.nhs.uk



We look forward to hearing from you.