Occupational Therapist (Band 5) Perinatal Inpatient Unit

Role summary

Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.

This Band 5 Occupational Therapist role supports patients in a specialist perinatal inpatient unit, working with women experiencing mental health difficulties during pregnancy or after childbirth. Requirements typically include a recognised Occupational Therapy degree, HCPC registration, and relevant clinical placement or experience. The post involves occupational assessments, treatment planning, therapeutic activities, risk assessment, multidisciplinary teamwork, documentation, and supporting recovery-focused care. Candidates are expected to demonstrate sound clinical reasoning, compassion, effective communication, cultural awareness, and an ability to work safely in a sensitive mental health environment. Experience in mental health, perinatal care, or occupational therapy within inpatient services is desirable, while newly qualified therapists may be considered where they can show strong placement experience and willingness to develop.

About the employer

South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust is one of the UK's leading providers of mental health and substance misuse services. It serves communities across south-east London and provides specialist services nationally and internationally through clinical, teaching, and research partnerships. The Trust operates hospitals, community teams, specialist inpatient units, and services for children, adults, older people, and families. Its perinatal services support women experiencing mental health difficulties during pregnancy and the postnatal period, often working closely with maternity, primary care, social services, and other NHS professionals. South London and Maudsley is also closely associated with the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience at King's College London, supporting education and research. Employees typically benefit from NHS terms and conditions, occupational pension arrangements, structured professional development, and access to a diverse range of clinical career pathways.

Working in United Kingdom

The United Kingdom offers strong opportunities for occupational therapists across the NHS, private healthcare, social care, mental health, and rehabilitation services. Its culture is diverse and generally values professionalism, privacy, punctuality, and inclusive patient-centred care. Major cities provide extensive employment but can be expensive, particularly London; smaller towns may offer lower housing costs and a quieter lifestyle. Overseas occupational therapists usually need HCPC registration, proof of qualifications and English proficiency, and often an NHS-sponsored Health and Care Worker visa. Applicants should check current HCPC, UK Visas and Immigration, and NHS requirements before relocating. The visa can permit eligible dependants and generally offers a route toward settlement, subject to current rules. Public transport is good in cities, while rural areas may require a car. The UK has changeable weather, strong public services, and a wide range of cultural, educational, and outdoor activities.