Occupational Therapy Assistant

Job Description

The Occupational Therapy Assistant supports occupational therapists in assessing patients, delivering therapeutic activities and helping people develop or regain skills needed for daily living. Duties may include assisting with individual and group sessions, encouraging independence, recording patient progress, preparing equipment and maintaining a safe care environment. Candidates are expected to have experience working with people in a health or social care setting, strong communication and interpersonal skills, empathy, reliability and the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team. A relevant care qualification or equivalent experience is helpful, while willingness to undertake training, follow clinical procedures and work flexibly across services is essential.

Company Info

Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust provides specialist mental health and learning disability services across Hertfordshire and surrounding areas. The Trust supports children, young people, adults and older people through hospital, community and specialist services. Its work focuses on recovery, rehabilitation, psychological wellbeing, independence and personalised care. Occupational therapy is an important part of its multidisciplinary approach, helping patients develop practical skills and participate more fully in everyday life. As an NHS employer, the Trust generally offers structured pay scales, pension membership, annual leave, professional development and access to workplace wellbeing support. Staff work with healthcare professionals, social care partners, patients and families to deliver safe, compassionate and effective care.

Destination Guide

The United Kingdom offers substantial opportunities in healthcare, including occupational therapy support, nursing, mental health and social care. Its culture is diverse and generally values professionalism, punctuality, privacy and inclusive teamwork. Lifestyle varies from busy cities to quiet rural communities, with good public transport, historic towns, cultural attractions and extensive countryside. Living costs are highest in London and the South East, while Hertfordshire remains well connected but can be expensive. Overseas applicants should check whether the role accepts international candidates and whether visa sponsorship is available. Many healthcare support roles do not automatically qualify for sponsorship, so eligibility must be confirmed with the employer and on GOV.UK. Relocation usually requires proof of identity, employment, accommodation, right-to-work status and appropriate registration where applicable. NHS employment commonly includes pension, paid leave and occupational health support.