Urgent Response Occupational Therapist (EK)

Job Details

Urgent Response Occupational Therapist

Location: London Borough of Barnet

Service: Urgent Response Occupational Therapy Team

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Occupational Therapist to join a busy and supportive Urgent Response Occupational Therapy Team covering the London Borough of Barnet.

The role will focus primarily on manual handling and moving and handling assessments, supporting individuals who are at immediate risk of injury or whose current equipment or care arrangements are no longer safe or appropriate. The successful candidate will need excellent manual handling knowledge and the ability to work autonomously in a fast-paced and pressured environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Complete urgent Occupational Therapy and moving and handling risk assessments in the community.
  • Assess individuals who are unable to transfer safely on and off beds, chairs and toilets or navigate stairs safely.
  • Assess complex moving and handling situations where equipment is unavailable or no longer appropriate.
  • Identify and recommend appropriate equipment and adaptations to promote safe transfers and independence.
  • Assess situations where carers are at high risk of physical injury due to inappropriate moving and handling practices.
  • Respond to safeguarding concerns relating to equipment or manual handling.
  • Complete assessments where an increase from single-handed to double-handed care is being considered.
  • Support individuals with palliative conditions where appropriate.
  • Work closely with carers, families, health professionals and other agencies to develop safe and practical solutions.
  • Maintain accurate and timely clinical records and professional documentation.
  • Participate in a duty OT rota of approximately one day per week.
  • Manage a caseload effectively and prioritise urgent referrals according to risk and need.

About You

The successful candidate will be a qualified and experienced Occupational Therapist with strong practical experience in manual handling, moving and handling assessments and community-based work. You must be confident working independently, making professional decisions and responding to urgent and complex situations.

You will also need to be a positive team player, as you will be joining a small, proactive team committed to delivering an excellent service. A full driving licence and access to a car is preferable, as the role involves visiting clients across the whole London Borough of Barnet.

The team offers a supportive management structure, regular supervision, day-to-day guidance and opportunities for professional development.

Essential Experience

  • Qualified Occupational Therapist.
  • Strong experience in manual handling and moving & handling risk assessments.
  • Experience working autonomously in a community or urgent response setting.
  • Experience assessing transfers, mobility and functional needs.
  • Experience recommending or assessing equipment.
  • Understanding of safeguarding and risk management.
  • Ability to work effectively under pressure and prioritise urgent cases.
  • Strong communication and multidisciplinary working skills.