Physiotherapy/Occupational Therapy Care Assistant

Job Purpose

To support the Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists in providing a high standard of PhysioTherapy Care, responding promptly and fully to the needs of St Monica Trust residents at Westbury Fields and working proactively to improve their wellbeing, whilst also supporting colleagues through excellent team working.

This role also includes Working with the St Monica Trust Therapy Team to support the flow of clients through our 12 NHS pathway 2 beds and 4 non-weight-bearing beds at John Wills House care home.

This is a professional role practicing within the guidance and legal framework of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations, fundamental standards of quality and safety.

HOURS: 30 Hours per week working Monday to Thursday 9am to 5pm.

This position reports to: Therapy Manager

Responsible for: No direct line reports

Key Results

• Assist the Physios and OTs in assessing and treating our residents, some of whom may have complex care needs and/or may be living with dementia.
• Recognise progress or changes in the condition of residents and report changes through agreed channels
• Demonstrate physical ability, dexterity and coordination to carry out physiotherapy interventions including therapeutic handling techniques
• Build and maintain relationships of trust with residents, respecting dignity and confidentiality at all times
• Manage own caseload and work under guidance but without direct supervision at times
• Follow a list of planned duties with degree of flexibility for purposes of efficiency and prioritisation.
• Use a range of equipment including hoists, walking aids and daily living aids safely and confidently.
• Help residents to practice exercises and skills (e.g. mobility, washing, dressing, kitchen tasks) for them to reach the agreed therapy goals.
• Support and lead exercise groups
• Help to communicate advice/education to residents for them to reach agreed therapy goals
• Use ways of encouraging and motivating residents to help them to reach their agreed therapy goals
• Communicate effectively with the Therapy Team and other teams
• Maintain accurate written records in compliance with Information Governance and St Monica Trust policies/procedures

No previous experience as a therapy assistance necessary, full training is provided on the job.

Hours: 30 hours per week working Monday to Thursday 9am to 5pm.

Essential skills, qualifications and attributes

• Self-motivated
• Works well as part of a team
• Enthusiasm for improving people's well-being
• Approachable
• Prioritising and time management ability
• Strong communication skills (both written and verbal)
• Problem solving approach
• Adaptable and able to respond to individuals' changing needs and varying demands on the service
• Minimum of 3 GCSEs (or equivalent) grades A to C including Maths and English
• Ability to work autonomously within set boundaries

Desirable skills, qualifications and attributes

• Demonstrates knowledge of good practice in relation to caring for older people and people living with disability
• Awareness of dementia
• Working within a care or therapy team
• Working with and/or supporting older people
• Working with people living with disability
• Good level of IT skills
• Diploma Level 2 (or equivalent) in care or therapy

No previous experience as a therapy assistance necessary, full training is provided on the job.

Hours: 30 hours per week working Monday to Thursday 9am to 5pm.