Job summary As a result of the post-holder being effective in their role, The Trust would expect to see the following outcomes for the Trust, service users and the wider community: 1. Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust as a leading provider of community services, mental health care, physical health, addiction services and learning disability care. 2. Service users receiving a high quality service and one which is free from stigma, discrimination and harm. 3. Staff engaged with the delivery, innovation and continuous improvement of services to benefit service users. 4. Visible and responsive leadership, setting the standard for others and role-modelled throughout the division for all managers 5. The Trust values of Continuous Improvement, Accountability, Respectfulness, Enthusiasm and Support will be embedded across the division for all staff and evident to service users. Main duties of the job The post holder will be responsible for assisting in the development and delivery of treatment and care plans where appropriate under the direction and supervision of a qualified Occupational Therapist and in collaboration with the ward manager. The post holder will be required to actively work as part of The Multi-Disciplinary Team. The Post Holder will be expected to work in an innovative way to support the smooth running of the Ward and will be required to offer individual and group activities alongside Occupational Therapy staff and under the indirect and direct supervision of a Qualified Occupational Therapist. The Post Holder will be expected to understand the MDT process and assist in the preparation of Occupational Therapy Reports for this purpose using a Person-Centred Approach. The above post will be implemented according to Trust/Service Policy including local area Service Specification and in line with The College of Occupational Therapists Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct (2015). The Philosophy of Care is based on the principles of Recovery and linked closely to our approach to empowering this in practice whilst reducing restrictive practice. Guidance related to the Professional development of Occupational Therapy Assistants is set out in The Royal College of Occupational Therapy Career Development Framework: Guiding Principles for Occupational Therapy (2019). About us Mersey Care is one of the largest trusts providing physical health and mental health services in the North West, serving more than 1.4 million people across our region and are also commissioned for services that cover the North West, North Wales and the Midlands. We offer specialist inpatient and community services that support physical and mental health and specialist inpatient mental health, learning disability, addiction and brain injury services. At the heart of all we do is our commitment to 'perfect care' - care that is safe, effective, positively experienced, timely, equitable and efficient. We support our staff to do the best job they can and work alongside service users, their families, and carers to design and develop future services together. We're currently delivering a programme of organisational and service transformation to significantly improve the quality of the services we provide and safely reduce cost as we do so. Flexible working requests will be considered for all roles. Date posted 10 January 2025 Pay scheme Agenda for change Band Band 3 Salary £24,071 to £25,674 a year per annum Contract Permanent Working pattern Full-time Reference number 350-SC6904347 Job locations Peasley cross hospital Marshals cross road St Helens WA9 3DE Job description Job responsibilities Principal Responsibilities: Operational Function Under the direct or indirect Clinical Supervision of a Qualified Occupational Therapist you will undertake the following duties: 1. To support, with direction, Service Users with activities throughout the therapeutic day. This will be under the supervision of senior Nurses, Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Psychological Therapists and Speech and Language Therapists. 2. Undertake specific tasks within Occupational Therapy assessments with Service users using a Person Centred Approach in order to assist the Occupational Therapist to identify appropriate Occupational Therapy interventions. 3. Work innovatively and effectively and take responsibility for carrying out a range of activities under non directive supervision where the overall goal is clear to support and deliver the provision of a programme of meaningful and purposeful activities of daily living that relate to Service Users Formulation and Goal Plans. 4. Assist in planning and facilitate both individual and group work with Service Users and take an active role in implementing agreed plans/tasks in familiar or defined contexts. 5. To support the Service Users to engage with their Shared Activity Planner and support the Service Users to engage in their choice of activity. There is an expectation to engage with service users on enhanced observations as part of their recovery journey 6. Be fully involved in The Occupational Therapy Process to ensure Service Users increase their independence and well being through skill and knowledge development and apply clinical reasoning to this approach. 7. Participate in the provision of a varied and interesting range of timetabled activities that support Service Users to achieve identified goals. 8. Exercise initiative and independence in carrying out delegated activities at a Professional level. 9. Be aware of, and apply, the principle of risk assessment and management to all aspects of clinical work including, where appropriate, the provision of information to The Multi Disciplinary Team. 10. Maintain the health, safety and security of others and contribute to and comply with risk assessment. 11. To contribute to formal Occupational Therapy record keeping and reports and provide feedback on Service Users occupational functioning. Assist in the development of treatment and care plans where appropriate 12. Undertake delegated tasks to contribute to the safe and smooth running of the service. 13. Work closely with The Multi Disciplinary Team at all times and involve Nursing Staff and Support workers fully in activity sessions. 14. To maintain links with other agencies, both statutory and voluntary in order to support recovery and discharge planning 15. Take some supervisory responsibility for the work of others in the implementation of routine work within identified and agreed scope of practice. 16. Participate in the management of incidents in line with The Trusts Policy and Procedure. 17. Where appropriate be involved in clinical audit activity. 18. Collate information about resources both within the service environment and in the community for Service Users access/utilisation. 19. Receive clinical supervision from a Qualified Occupational Therapist on a regular basis. 20. Communicate and work supportively with Students on Educational Placements. 21. Maintain a safe working environment with particular regard to the environment and Occupational Therapy resources and equipment. 22. The post holder will be fully involved in the development of The Occupational Therapy Service including fully supporting using recognised and evidence based Models of Practice and understanding the importance of evidence and research informing practice. 23. Facilitate/Co-facilitate and support service users to attend service user forums, core integrated therapy groups, care pathway groups and risk related treatment programmes and undertake any training required as part of these integrated groups. Communications 24. Communicate effectively and form Professional relationships with Service Users, their relatives and visitors, staff and any other relevant contact. 25. At all times be a positive ambassador for Occupational Therapy and the wider service. To be able to explain the basic principles of Occupational Therapy to others and have a good working knowledge of the Service specification and policy. 26. Use a variety of communication including motivational skills to instruct, guide and engage individual Service Users and/or groups of Service Users in Therapeutic activities. To include adapting communication to ensure this is effective for Service Users. 27. Communicate with support Workers and other staff the aim and planning of specific activity sessions giving all relevant information for sessions to take place safely and purposefully. 28. To maintain accurate and timely Clinical notes on the electronic records system to include Rio & RADAR documentation and report any essential information to the Nurse in Charge/Shift Leader/Occupational Therapist at the earliest opportunity. 29. Contribute information to Occupational Therapy reports. 30. To have an understanding of ward round, and other Multi Disciplinary meetings, and if necessary feedback on Service Users progress. 31. To undertake all duties with due regard to sensitive information and confidentiality in line with Trust policy and procedure and understand the importance of maintaining confidentiality. 32. Meet with supervising Occupational Therapist on a regular basis for clinical supervision and actively participate in the supervision process to include CPD and Appraisal work. 33. Be actively involved in networking with other Occupational Therapy Services and Special interest groups to share ideas and promote innovation. 34. Appraise the Occupational Therapist & Ward Manager/Nurse in Charge regarding service activity and any issues of concern. Security 35. Ensure security is maintained at the level required for the safety of service Users, staff and the general public. 36. At all times the post holder will ensure the safe keeping of their keys, personal alarm, and safety of their personal identification badge. 37. The post holder will be aware of own and others health, safety and security in and outside the workplace. 38. To regularly carry out recorded checks to include equipment and ensure the maintenance of a safe working environment and to report promptly any problems so as to ensure a prompt response. 39. To participate in the review of safety needed for individual Service Users. 40. The post holder will have a good working knowledge of the correct procedure and protocol for the management of Service User leave, visits to Service Users, taking delivery of orders/goods to include a detailed knowledge of what constitutes contraband and how this is managed in an inpatient environment. 41. The post holder will observe and contribute to the risk assessment process related to sharps and hazardous items used by identified Service Users as part of activities of daily living sessions. Quality 42. To uphold the Trusts commitment to Strive for Perfect Care and to contribute to the achievement of this. 43. Will be responsible for maintaining high standards of care, treatment and hygiene within their area. 44. Monitor and ensure high standards relating to the planning and delivery of all Occupational Therapy activities. 45. Assist the Occupational Therapy service to provide a fair, varied and meaningful range of activities for Service Users within the resources available. 46. Help to ensure that written and electronic standards are achieved and support the Ward and Occupational Therapy Service to meet service users needs through Formulation and Goal Plan deadlines. 47. Research new ideas in order to develop the service with specific reference to working with people with Mental Health and/or complex needs in clinical practice. Personal/Professional development 48. To undergo an annual appraisal of performance in accordance with the Trust policy and undertake further training and education as identified by a Personal Development Profile. 49. To participate in their formal appraisal and clinical and management supervision. 50. To be responsible for the update and maintenance of a Personal Development Portfolio. 51. Maintain staff morale by means of team building and positive communication. 52. Develop supportive therapeutic relationships with individuals and groups. 53. To be involved in training initiatives and be able to assist in the delivery of training to other staff when required. Management of Resources 54. Maintain accurate business records, e.g. Stock control, non-stock requisitions, invoicing and dealing with suppliers, to the point of authorisation. 55. Requisition of supplies up to the point of authorisation and to ensure their safe keeping and efficient usage. 56. Assist in the management of an effective stock control system under the direction of a qualified Occupational Therapist. 57. Assist the Occupational Therapist in the planning of the development of the Occupational Therapy Service. Job description Job responsibilities Principal Responsibilities: Operational Function Under the direct or indirect Clinical Supervision of a Qualified Occupational Therapist you will undertake the following duties: 1. To support, with direction, Service Users with activities throughout the therapeutic day. This will be under the supervision of senior Nurses, Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Psychological Therapists and Speech and Language Therapists. 2. Undertake specific tasks within Occupational Therapy assessments with Service users using a Person Centred Approach in order to assist the Occupational Therapist to identify appropriate Occupational Therapy interventions. 3. Work innovatively and effectively and take responsibility for carrying out a range of activities under non directive supervision where the overall goal is clear to support and deliver the provision of a programme of meaningful and purposeful activities of daily living that relate to Service Users Formulation and Goal Plans. 4. Assist in planning and facilitate both individual and group work with Service Users and take an active role in implementing agreed plans/tasks in familiar or defined contexts. 5. To support the Service Users to engage with their Shared Activity Planner and support the Service Users to engage in their choice of activity. There is an expectation to engage with service users on enhanced observations as part of their recovery journey 6. Be fully involved in The Occupational Therapy Process to ensure Service Users increase their independence and well being through skill and knowledge development and apply clinical reasoning to this approach. 7. Participate in the provision of a varied and interesting range of timetabled activities that support Service Users to achieve identified goals. 8. Exercise initiative and independence in carrying out delegated activities at a Professional level. 9. Be aware of, and apply, the principle of risk assessment and management to all aspects of clinical work including, where appropriate, the provision of information to The Multi Disciplinary Team. 10. Maintain the health, safety and security of others and contribute to and comply with risk assessment. 11. To contribute to formal Occupational Therapy record keeping and reports and provide feedback on Service Users occupational functioning. Assist in the development of treatment and care plans where appropriate 12. Undertake delegated tasks to contribute to the safe and smooth running of the service. 13. Work closely with The Multi Disciplinary Team at all times and involve Nursing Staff and Support workers fully in activity sessions. 14. To maintain links with other agencies, both statutory and voluntary in order to support recovery and discharge planning 15. Take some supervisory responsibility for the work of others in the implementation of routine work within identified and agreed scope of practice. 16. Participate in the management of incidents in line with The Trusts Policy and Procedure. 17. Where appropriate be involved in clinical audit activity. 18. Collate information about resources both within the service environment and in the community for Service Users access/utilisation. 19. Receive clinical supervision from a Qualified Occupational Therapist on a regular basis. 20. Communicate and work supportively with Students on Educational Placements. 21. Maintain a safe working environment with particular regard to the environment and Occupational Therapy resources and equipment. 22. The post holder will be fully involved in the development of The Occupational Therapy Service including fully supporting using recognised and evidence based Models of Practice and understanding the importance of evidence and research informing practice. 23. Facilitate/Co-facilitate and support service users to attend service user forums, core integrated therapy groups, care pathway groups and risk related treatment programmes and undertake any training required as part of these integrated groups. Communications 24. Communicate effectively and form Professional relationships with Service Users, their relatives and visitors, staff and any other relevant contact. 25. At all times be a positive ambassador for Occupational Therapy and the wider service. To be able to explain the basic principles of Occupational Therapy to others and have a good working knowledge of the Service specification and policy. 26. Use a variety of communication including motivational skills to instruct, guide and engage individual Service Users and/or groups of Service Users in Therapeutic activities. To include adapting communication to ensure this is effective for Service Users. 27. Communicate with support Workers and other staff the aim and planning of specific activity sessions giving all relevant information for sessions to take place safely and purposefully. 28. To maintain accurate and timely Clinical notes on the electronic records system to include Rio & RADAR documentation and report any essential information to the Nurse in Charge/Shift Leader/Occupational Therapist at the earliest opportunity. 29. Contribute information to Occupational Therapy reports. 30. To have an understanding of ward round, and other Multi Disciplinary meetings, and if necessary feedback on Service Users progress. 31. To undertake all duties with due regard to sensitive information and confidentiality in line with Trust policy and procedure and understand the importance of maintaining confidentiality. 32. Meet with supervising Occupational Therapist on a regular basis for clinical supervision and actively participate in the supervision process to include CPD and Appraisal work. 33. Be actively involved in networking with other Occupational Therapy Services and Special interest groups to share ideas and promote innovation. 34. Appraise the Occupational Therapist & Ward Manager/Nurse in Charge regarding service activity and any issues of concern. Security 35. Ensure security is maintained at the level required for the safety of service Users, staff and the general public. 36. At all times the post holder will ensure the safe keeping of their keys, personal alarm, and safety of their personal identification badge. 37. The post holder will be aware of own and others health, safety and security in and outside the workplace. 38. To regularly carry out recorded checks to include equipment and ensure the maintenance of a safe working environment and to report promptly any problems so as to ensure a prompt response. 39. To participate in the review of safety needed for individual Service Users. 40. The post holder will have a good working knowledge of the correct procedure and protocol for the management of Service User leave, visits to Service Users, taking delivery of orders/goods to include a detailed knowledge of what constitutes contraband and how this is managed in an inpatient environment. 41. The post holder will observe and contribute to the risk assessment process related to sharps and hazardous items used by identified Service Users as part of activities of daily living sessions. Quality 42. To uphold the Trusts commitment to Strive for Perfect Care and to contribute to the achievement of this. 43. Will be responsible for maintaining high standards of care, treatment and hygiene within their area. 44. Monitor and ensure high standards relating to the planning and delivery of all Occupational Therapy activities. 45. Assist the Occupational Therapy service to provide a fair, varied and meaningful range of activities for Service Users within the resources available. 46. Help to ensure that written and electronic standards are achieved and support the Ward and Occupational Therapy Service to meet service users needs through Formulation and Goal Plan deadlines. 47. Research new ideas in order to develop the service with specific reference to working with people with Mental Health and/or complex needs in clinical practice. Personal/Professional development 48. To undergo an annual appraisal of performance in accordance with the Trust policy and undertake further training and education as identified by a Personal Development Profile. 49. To participate in their formal appraisal and clinical and management supervision. 50. To be responsible for the update and maintenance of a Personal Development Portfolio. 51. Maintain staff morale by means of team building and positive communication. 52. Develop supportive therapeutic relationships with individuals and groups. 53. To be involved in training initiatives and be able to assist in the delivery of training to other staff when required. Management of Resources 54. Maintain accurate business records, e.g. Stock control, non-stock requisitions, invoicing and dealing with suppliers, to the point of authorisation. 55. Requisition of supplies up to the point of authorisation and to ensure their safe keeping and efficient usage. 56. Assist in the management of an effective stock control system under the direction of a qualified Occupational Therapist. 57. Assist the Occupational Therapist in the planning of the development of the Occupational Therapy Service. Person Specification Skills Essential Ability to independently perform delegated tasks within competence to the required standard. Ability to be an effective role model. Numeracy and Literacy skills; ability to keep accurate Have a caring, empathic approach. Ability to undertake and maintain mandatory training e.g. C&R level 2 service user and department records to the required standard. Able to carry out physical intervention and breakaway effectively following training. Commitment to work with service users with Mental Health and Learning Disabilities. Use Display Screen Equipment in work environment. Able to work within inpatient environments. Actively participate in own supervision. Sound values and positive attitude towards people with mental health, learning and associated disabilities and complex needs. Interested in working creatively to assist in the planning and delivery of a person centred Occupational Therapy service. Required to complete skills and interests questionnaire at the time of recruitment. Desirable Ability to reflect objectively and critically appraise own performance. Skills and knowledge in a particular interest that could benefit Service Users. Involvement in person centred planning and working. An understanding of the role of advocacy. Willing to be an authorised Trust lease vehicle driver. KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE Essential Ability to plan and deliver activities. Clear effective written and verbal communication and excellent interpersonal skills. Excellent observation skill and able to relay key information to others. Basic IT skills. Able to recognise level of own competence, boundaries of role, scope for personal and service development and improvement. Able to work on own initiative as part of a supportive multidisciplinary team under directive supervision. Ability to think creatively and assist in the planning of individual and group activity sessions for service users. Ability to effectively organise own time, be reliable and punctual and prioritise work load. Able to observe health and safety protocol. Ability to problem solve within defined context. Able to observe conflict situations in a positive and calm manner and follow policy and procedure related to the management of aggression. Motivated to build on existing skills and knowledge as part of the CPD process. Be a positive ambassador for the service. An ability to work with warmth and empathy in an empowering and non-judgmental way. Desirable Knowledge of the Occupational Therapy Process. Knowledge of The Model Of Human Occupation (Kielhofner). Experience of working with Adults with Learning Disabilities/Mental Health. Experience working within inpatient services. Experience of supporting Therapeutic activities for individual groups of service users. Familiar with Electronic patient records. Experience of the Model Of Human Occupation (Kielhofner). Experience of teaching others. Qualifications Essential Qualification Credit Framework Diploma level 2 in Health & Social Care or a commitment to achieve this Qualifications in: (or a commitment to undertake and complete training within first year of appointment) to include: o First Aid o Aggression Management training o Other training opportunities relevant to clinical area o Following agreed action plan set at appraisal Person Specification Skills Essential Ability to independently perform delegated tasks within competence to the required standard. Ability to be an effective role model. Numeracy and Literacy skills; ability to keep accurate Have a caring, empathic approach. Ability to undertake and maintain mandatory training e.g. C&R level 2 service user and department records to the required standard. Able to carry out physical intervention and breakaway effectively following training. Commitment to work with service users with Mental Health and Learning Disabilities. Use Display Screen Equipment in work environment. Able to work within inpatient environments. Actively participate in own supervision. Sound values and positive attitude towards people with mental health, learning and associated disabilities and complex needs. Interested in working creatively to assist in the planning and delivery of a person centred Occupational Therapy service. Required to complete skills and interests questionnaire at the time of recruitment. Desirable Ability to reflect objectively and critically appraise own performance. Skills and knowledge in a particular interest that could benefit Service Users. Involvement in person centred planning and working. An understanding of the role of advocacy. Willing to be an authorised Trust lease vehicle driver. KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE Essential Ability to plan and deliver activities. Clear effective written and verbal communication and excellent interpersonal skills. Excellent observation skill and able to relay key information to others. Basic IT skills. Able to recognise level of own competence, boundaries of role, scope for personal and service development and improvement. Able to work on own initiative as part of a supportive multidisciplinary team under directive supervision. Ability to think creatively and assist in the planning of individual and group activity sessions for service users. Ability to effectively organise own time, be reliable and punctual and prioritise work load. Able to observe health and safety protocol. Ability to problem solve within defined context. Able to observe conflict situations in a positive and calm manner and follow policy and procedure related to the management of aggression. Motivated to build on existing skills and knowledge as part of the CPD process. Be a positive ambassador for the service. An ability to work with warmth and empathy in an empowering and non-judgmental way. Desirable Knowledge of the Occupational Therapy Process. Knowledge of The Model Of Human Occupation (Kielhofner). Experience of working with Adults with Learning Disabilities/Mental Health. Experience working within inpatient services. Experience of supporting Therapeutic activities for individual groups of service users. Familiar with Electronic patient records. Experience of the Model Of Human Occupation (Kielhofner). Experience of teaching others. Qualifications Essential Qualification Credit Framework Diploma level 2 in Health & Social Care or a commitment to achieve this Qualifications in: (or a commitment to undertake and complete training within first year of appointment) to include: o First Aid o Aggression Management training o Other training opportunities relevant to clinical area o Following agreed action plan set at appraisal 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 Registration Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window). Additional information 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 Registration Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window). Employer details Employer name Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust Address Peasley cross hospital Marshals cross road St Helens WA9 3DE Employer's website https://www.merseycare.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)