Occupational Therapy Assistant

Role overview

This position sits within an inpatient mental health service for children and adolescents, where the focus is on delivering high-quality care grounded in evidence. Working as part of the Occupational Therapy team, you will help run a structured therapeutic programme built around occupational science, engagement, and participation in meaningful everyday activities.

You will support qualified Occupational Therapists in helping young people strengthen their skills, routines, and independence as they work toward recovery. The opportunity is especially suitable for someone who is enthusiastic about supporting young people and interested in building a career in Occupational Therapy.

Key duties

• Assist the Occupational Therapy team with evidence-based therapeutic groups.
• Help plan and deliver the ward’s therapeutic timetable.
• Put Occupational Therapy assessment recommendations into practice.
• Motivate and support young people to take part in meaningful activities and daily routines.
• Provide both individual and group support to encourage participation and recovery.
• Keep clinical notes accurate, complete, and up to date in line with service expectations.
• Work closely with the multidisciplinary team to contribute to patient care.
• Help maintain a safe, structured, and therapeutic ward environment.

Detailed responsibilities

You will work under the supervision and guidance of qualified Occupational Therapists and remain professionally accountable to the Occupational Therapy team. The role places strong emphasis on occupational science and on helping young people engage in activities that build routine, structure, and day-to-day independence.

Your work will include supporting therapeutic groups and the broader programme, making sure activities are engaging, appropriate for the developmental stage of the patients, and consistent with evidence-based practice. You will also carry out recommendations from formal Occupational Therapy assessments and provide one-to-one support to increase participation and independence.

The post calls for someone proactive, committed, and genuinely interested in working with children and adolescents facing mental health challenges. A strong interest in recovery, wellbeing, and the role of activity in therapeutic progress is important.

You will need to manage your workload effectively, work independently when required, collaborate well with others, and maintain high standards in communication and documentation. The role also offers useful experience for anyone considering further training or study in Occupational Therapy.

Working with NELFT

New starters are welcomed through a structured induction process. All new employees begin on the first Monday of each month and take part in an induction lasting up to two weeks, covering mandatory training, systems training, and equipment allocation. The induction also includes opportunities to meet the executive team and senior managers, along with drop-in sessions focused on engagement, health and wellbeing, and key processes. This induction is delivered at the head office in Rainham, Essex.

Probation

This appointment is subject to a probationary period.

Pay information

The position attracts the Outer London High Cost Area Supplement for B&D, Redbridge, Havering, Waltham Forest, and CEME. This allowance is paid at 15% of basic salary, with a minimum of £4,714 and a maximum of £5,941 per year, pro rata for part-time hours.

About the organisation

Joining the team means becoming part of a supportive and welcoming environment. The organisation is rated Good by the CQC and is working toward an Outstanding rating. It operates across North East London and Essex, delivering community and mental healthcare services to adults and children.

The trust is known for award-winning equality and diversity work, staff wellbeing initiatives, and a strong commitment to employee development. It is a Level 3 Disability Confident Leader, has been listed in the Working Families Top 10 Employers benchmark for five consecutive years, and holds Carers UK Level 1 Accreditation. Through staff networks and learning opportunities, it aims to promote a fair, compassionate workplace culture.