Job Description

The closing date is 24th Jul 2025

Anticipated Interview date(s) 31/07/2025

Job summary

---------------


We have an exciting opportunity for an Occupational Therapist to work as part of a friendly, highly specialised team.


We welcome applications from registered Occupational Therapists looking to develop in the field of paediatrics and also welcome applications from final year students who would like to start their occupational therapy career working with children and young people. The post is advertised for full time, however we would be happy to discuss part time working with interested applicants.


The service comprises Speech & Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Therapy Support Practitioners and Administrators and is delivered by four teams working across Somerset in clinics, schools, settings & family homes. We have a designated clinic base in each area for assessment and therapy providing a range of tools for clinicians. The service offers opportunities for therapists to develop their skills and experience through use of varied assessments, interventions (both individual and group), specialist clinics and joint working with therapy colleagues. We have a close working partnership with education and health colleagues in other services.


We are committed to the ongoing professional development for all staff through provision of in-house tutorials, shadowing opportunities and external courses. We provide an induction programme and regular supervision from more experienced Occupational Therapists.

Main duties, tasks & skills required

-----------------------------------------


Provide assessment, diagnosis, and therapeutic intervention for children and young people (0-19 years). Develop and implement individualised care plans focused on functional, developmental, and daily living skills. Deliver therapy through a range of models including 1:1, groups, joint sessions, and specialist clinics. Work closely with families, schools, and multidisciplinary teams to promote the best outcomes for children. Contribute to service development and evaluation. Provide advice and training to parents, carers, and education staff, including input into EHCPs (Education, Health and Care Plans). Maintain accurate case records and clinical reports.

About us

------------


At

Somerset NHS Foundation Trust

, we're committed to supporting our employees with a range of benefits designed to enhance your professional and personal life. We offer:

Flexible working options

to help you balance work and life

NHS pension scheme

for long-term financial security

Generous annual leave allowance

to recharge and relax A strong focus on

career development

to help you grow and achieve your potential

Additionally, you'll gain access to our

Blue Light Card

, unlocking exclusive discounts on shopping, dining, and leisure activities, as well as NHS-specific perks to support you both inside and outside of work.


We are proud to foster a

diverse, skilled, and inclusive workforce

, and we encourage applications from all backgrounds.

Why Somerset?

Somerset offers the perfect blend of

idyllic countryside, outstanding areas of natural beauty

, and

breathtaking coastlines

, with vibrant cities like

Bristol

,

Bath

, and

Exeter

just a short drive away - and only two hours to

London

.


The region is home to excellent

educational facilities

, and with affordable housing compared to other parts of the country, it's a great place to build both your career and your future.

Somerset truly has it all

- the peaceful countryside and cosmopolitan city life, with something for everyone to enjoy.

Job description

-------------------


As a key member of our integrated therapy service, you'll work collaboratively to deliver high-quality, family-centred care.


You will:

Manage your own caseload with support from experienced senior therapists. Use your clinical reasoning to assess and treat a variety of developmental, sensory, and physical needs. Work flexibly in community settings, providing intervention at home, in schools, and in clinics. Attend regular supervision and CPD opportunities including in-house training and external courses. Be involved in clinical audits, research, and service improvement initiatives. Liaise with other professionals across health and education to ensure coordinated care.

Person specification

------------------------

Qualifications

#

Essential

Recognised Degree or equivalent in Occupational Therapy HPC registration and COT registration

Experience

#

Essential

Experience of Occupational Therapy



#

Desirable

Experience in paediatric Occupational Therapy Experience of training others Experience of contributing to service development Experience of working with children Experience of peer support and supervision Experience of working within NHS environments and systems

Additional Criteria

#

Essential

Car Driver with own car and relevant insurances - for Community working Excellent communication skills via verbal, written and use of technology

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

UK Professional Registration

Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website.

For help with your application, contact:

Helen Stanley


helen.stanley1@somersetft.nhs.uk


01823346151

Pay scheme

Agenda for Change

Band

Band 5

Salary

29970.00 to 36483.00 Yearly

Contract

Permanent

Working pattern

Part-Time, Full-Time

Reference number

184-OL-GR-2707

Job locations

Bridgwater House

Kings Square

Bridgwater

Somerset

TA6 3AR