Paediatric Occupational Therapist

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 of the job

• 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.