Paediatric Occupational Therapist

About Us:

At Open Arms Support Services, we provide Occupational Therapy adapted to meet our customers’ requirements rather than use a one size fits all approach. We are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where every team member can thrive.

Job Purpose:

The CYP Occupational Therapist (OT) is responsible for conducting comprehensive occupational therapy assessments for children and young people. The role focuses on evaluating developmental, sensory, motor, and functional needs to inform intervention planning and recommendations. The therapist will work collaboratively with families, schools, and other professionals to ensure the best outcomes for the child/young person.

Key Responsibilities:

Assessment & Evaluation:

· Conduct comprehensive occupational therapy assessments for children and young people with diverse needs (e.g., developmental delays, autism, sensory processing difficulties, physical disabilities).

· Use standardised and non-standardised assessment tools to evaluate fine and gross motor skills, sensory processing, daily living skills, and cognitive-perceptual abilities.

· Observe children in various environments (home, school, clinic) to assess functional abilities and participation.

· Analyse assessment findings to develop individualised therapy recommendations.

· Skills and knowledge will be such that the OT will be competent at providing written and oral evidence for tribunals

Report Writing & Documentation:

· Prepare detailed clinical assessment reports with findings, clinical observations, and recommendations for interventions or adaptations.

· Ensure reports are completed within agreed timeframes and meet the prescribed standard.

· Maintain accurate, up-to-date, and confidential service user records.

Multi-Disciplinary Collaboration:

· Work closely with families, teachers, SENCOs, physiotherapists, speech and language therapists, and healthcare professionals to support a holistic approach to assessment and intervention.

· Participate in multi-agency meetings, case conferences, and Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) assessments.

· Provide professional advice and training to schools and caregivers based on assessment outcomes.

Intervention Planning & Recommendations:

· Develop tailored intervention strategies based on assessment findings, including environmental adaptations, assistive technology, and therapy programmes.

· Provide guidance on home-based strategies and school accommodations to support children’s participation in daily activities.

· Recommend referrals to additional services if required.

Professional Development & Compliance:

· Stay updated with the latest evidence-based assessment tools and best practices in paediatric occupational therapy.

· Ensure compliance with HCPC registration, RCOT guidelines, and safeguarding policies.

· Participate in ongoing training, supervision, and service development initiatives.

Essential Requirements:

· Degree in Occupational Therapy (BSc/MSc) and HCPC registration.

· Experience conducting occupational therapy assessments for children and young people.

· Knowledge of standardised OT assessment tools (e.g., Movement ABC, Sensory Profile, Beery VMI).

· Level 2 certificate in Ayers Sensory Integration Therapy

· Strong report-writing and analytical skills.

· Ability to work effectively with families, schools, and multi-disciplinary teams.

· Be able to communicate clearly and appropriately with members of the public, colleagues and staff in other agencies – verbally, on the telephone and in writing

· Understanding of child development, SEND, and EHCP processes.

· Qualified in Sensory Integration and Praxis Testing.

· Experience working with children and young people in educational, clinical, or community settings.

· Experience of working with parents/carers and education staff

· Enhanced DBS check.

Desirable:

· Additional training in sensory integration, neurodevelopmental disorders, or assistive technology.

· Membership with the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) and its specialist paediatric section.

How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit their CV and cover letter to [email protected]. We look forward to welcoming a new member to our team!

Pay: £31,000.00-£55,000.00 per year

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Norwich