Job Description

Previous applicants need not apply


We are seeking a passionate and enthusiastic Rehabilitation Assistant to work within the MSK Physiotherapy team at Saffron Walden Community Hospital and with our wider MSK team across West Essex. You will be responsible for leading rehabilitation classes and one to one rehabilitation sessions for our service users at the Saffron Walden department.



You will be part of the Integrated MSK Service (IMSKS) which is supported by a high ratio of senior to junior clinical staff ensuring comprehensive supervision, training and development opportunities to expand knowledge, skills and scope of practice. EPUT has an excellent reputation in supporting professional development and AHP's.



West Essex is a diverse area stretching northwards from its boundary with Greater London into the heart of rural Essex. Transport links are excellent, with access to London Underground in the south and the M11 and M25 close to hand.



.... So come and join a forward thinking MSK team and be part of something different to improve the care and outcomes for the West Essex population



The Trust will consider flexible working for all posts wherever the operational needs of the service are able to accommodate.



To undertake the provision of rehabilitation classes for problems such as but not limited to: hip or knee osteoarthritis/pain, spinal pain, and have knowledge of exercise prescription and advising, educating and using various strategies to modify and improve patient performance during treatment sessions both in a group setting and on an individual basis.

To hold responsibility for own caseload, working without direct supervision, and in doing so being able to perform re-assessments of patients by questioning, observing and measuring patient's abilities and needs. Support will be available from HCPC registered physiotherapists and other Allied Health Care Professionals via a variety of communication methods although this may not be in the direct physical vicinity.

To develop and deliver individualised treatment programmes of rehabilitation.

To assess, provide, fit and demonstrate use of a wide range of equipment to promote independence.



Valuing you. Recognising your dedication. At EPUT, we look after you.



Receive supervision and support to help you fulfil your potential.



Join an inclusive EPUT community and connect with others through engagement events and equality or champion networks.



If you need help, we provide mental health and wellbeing services, occupational health advice and counselling.



We run recognition awards to recognise staff's hard work and dedication.



Benefits



27 days holiday, plus bank holidays, rising to 33 days after 10 years' service.



Excellent pension of up to14.5% of your pensionable pay.



Staff discounts include Blue Light Card, NHS discount offers, and staff benefits.



8K relocation package if you move to Essex to join us



Season ticket loans are interest-free to cover the cost of travelling to and from work via tram, rail, or bus.



Work that wraps around your needs

Work bank:

You can use the opportunity to supplement your income and develop your skills by working bank shifts.

Flexible working:

available from day one for most roles.

Job share:

Applications for job shares are welcomed.



ROLE SUMMARY



To undertake the provision of rehabilitation classes for problems such as but not limited to: hip or knee osteoarthritis/pain, spinal pain, and have knowledge of exercise prescription and advising, educating and using various strategies to modify and improve patient performance during treatment sessions both in a group setting and on an individual basis.



To hold responsibility for own caseload, working without direct supervision, and in doing so being able to perform re-assessments of patients by questioning, observing and measuring patient's abilities and needs. Support will be available from HCPC registered physiotherapists and other Allied Health Care Professionals via a variety of communication methods although this may not be in the direct physical vicinity.



T o develop and deliver individualised treatment programmes of rehabilitation.



To assess, provide, fit and demonstrate use of a wide range of equipment to promote independence.



Support takes the form of regular formal and informal training and feedback sessions. Access to advice and support from HCPC registered physiotherapists or osteopaths is available on a regular basis.



To be responsible for the safe & competent use of gym equipment, patient appliances and aids used by patients. Ensure that Physiotherapy students attain competency prior to use.



To modify and progress exercises of patients either individually or within groups according to care plans set by registered physiotherapists and osteopaths.



To link with exercise referral schemes and other agencies promoting health and wellbeing to promote improved integrated care with community based provision appropriate to the needs of the population, taking into account local deprivation and travel plan issues.



To provide expert knowledge and information on exercise principles to other healthcare staff including training programmes as required.



To deliver educational sessions to patient groups to promote self-management of their condition



To maintain a clean, tidy and safe environment and equipment.



To participate in audit and outcome measure data collection and reporting as required; carry out clerical/administrative duties as required



KEY RESPONSIBILITIES CLINICAL



To gain informed consent for treatment in accordance with Trust policy. This will frequently be to patients/carers and relatives who have diverse or complex emotional, physical and psychological conditions e.g. deafness, dysphasia, depression, chronic pain, etc. and will require expert use of verbal and non-verbal communication tools.

To undertake clinical re-assessments of the patient gaining relevant information by clinical examination, observation, questioning and discussion to independently evaluate patient progression towards their goals and to inform progression/ modification of the patient's rehabilitation programme including seeking advice from the referrer if the patient's condition is deteriorating or not improving as expected.

Facilitate, monitor and evaluate goal setting with patients to optimise their potential and promote self-management, taking into account the promotion of their physical and emotional wellbeing and disease prevention.

Facilitate self-management strategies and be involved in formulating long term condition management plans to promote ongoing self-management and a smooth transition to third Develop and deliver an exercise programme based on patient education, individualised exercise programmes or classes.

Liaise with referrer on progress and outcome as indicated on the care plan. Support and advice is available from registered physiotherapists and osteopaths as required.

To be responsible for the safe and competent use of gym equipment and patient appliances by self and patients. eg mobility aids.

To maintain clinical records/reports and follow guidelines, protocols and procedures in accordance with professional (Chartered Society of Physiotherapy), legal and departmental standards.



COMMUNICATION



To communicate effectively with patients, carers and relatives on an individual or group basis to maximise rehabilitation potential through verbal and non-verbal methods. This may require explanation, instruction, persuasion, motivation, negotiation and reassurance.

T o be committed to a team approach in order to provide continuity and efficiency of service provision.

To liaise with multi-professional team/colleagues/medical staff as required.



INFORMATION MANAGEMENT



To be actively involved in the accurate and timely collection of data &/or information as required for audit / clinical governance in order to monitor and improve standards and quality as applicable

Input data and information accurately and completely using the latest versions of policies and procedures in manual and electronic systems

Ensure the necessary precautions are adhered when transferring information, only disclosing patient identifiable information in line with Caldicott and the Data Protection Act



POLICY/SERVICE UPDATE



To write and update policies for use within the department and to contribute to the writing of policies to be used in the West Essex Musculoskeletal Service.



FREEDOM TO ACT



Authority to make decisions within the department and manage local change that does not impact on the wider MSK service. To consult the Musculoskeletal Manager and team leader colleagues about changes that affect other services.



EFFORT AND ENVIRONMENT



Therapeutic handling of patients e.g. supporting them when mobilising, spinal mobilisations which will include working in awkward positions e.g. crouching, kneeling.

Sustained concentration throughout the working day will be required plus balancing management and clinical duties.

At times the post will involve working with highly emotional patients



ADDITIONAL DUTIES



In addition to the above duties you will also be expected to perform the below key activities in line with your job role;



Complete mandatory training in line with Trust policy and procedures

To participate in the staff appraisal process and to undertake for any staff you manage

To keep yourself updated on all matters relating to Trust policy

To provide management supervision where appropriate.

You will be expected to work collaboratively with key partner organisations, service users, carers, clinicians and other practitioners within the multi-disciplinary team in delivering services; providing a 7-day a week, 24-hours a day service for 365 days a year working shifts, where appropriate and operationally required.