Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in UK are a rewarding career choice for those who want to make a real difference in people’s lives while enjoying job stability and growth. These roles usually offer a salary between £25,147 to £27,596 per year, providing a solid foundation for both fresh candidates and those with prior healthcare experience. Most positions are full-time and physically on-site, working closely with patients in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or community health settings.
While some roles may welcome entry-level applicants, having experience in healthcare or patient support can be an advantage. Beyond the paycheck, this job is about compassion, teamwork, and the satisfaction of helping individuals regain independence and improve their quality of life.
Details of Therapy Assistant Jobs:
- Job Type: Full Time
- Location; Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, United Kingdom
- Salary: 25,147 – 27,596 £ / Year
- Company: Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust
Duties of Occupational Therapy Assistant:
- To devise and execute therapeutic activity programs that are customized to the patient population within the parameters established by the occupational therapist.
- To execute and assess occupational therapy interventions that have been delegated to patients for activities that are associated with their treatment program.
- To aid occupational therapists in the provision of care and to provide support personnel with a demonstration of occupational therapy interventions.
- To fulfill administrative responsibilities within the occupational therapy department, which include accepting full responsibility for assigned tasks.
- To improve their clinical and organizational abilities in order to accommodate the requirements of the organization and service users.
About us:
The Cambridgeshire & Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust is a health and social care organization that is committed to the provision of high-quality care with compassion, with the goal of enhancing the health and well-being of the individuals under our care, as well as enabling and supporting them to lead a fulfilling life.
Our clinical teams provide a variety of NHS services to the community, in addition to inpatient and primary care settings. These services encompass the following: forensic and specialist mental health, learning disabilities, primary care and liaison psychiatry, substance misuse, social care, research and development, and the mental and physical health of children, adults, and older individuals.
In order to accomplish our objective, we seek to recruit exceptional candidates who align with our vision and principles. We are an equal-opportunity employer and welcome applications from all sectors of the community, with a particular emphasis on underrepresented groups such as disabled individuals, members of our ethnic minorities, and LGBTQ+ communities.
Responsibilities:
- To assist in the implementation of the occupational therapy pathway. This may encompass, however, but is not limited to: assessment, analysis of results, care planning, including prioritizing and grading targets and goals; interventions on a group or individual basis; grading and adaptation of activities to suit individual strengths and needs; and aspects of report-writing.
- Manage a designated caseload within your scope of practice by working independently and collaboratively.
- To facilitate group sessions within the framework established by the occupational therapist.
- To offer goal-directed treatment on an individual basis that promotes independence, with an emphasis on life skills, training, rehabilitation, community integration, and the physical and psychosocial environment.
- To collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to guarantee the effective delivery of care and communication.
Benefits of Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs in UK:
- Job Stability and Demand: The aging population and the heightened emphasis on holistic healthcare and rehabilitation are anticipated to drive an increase in the demand for occupational therapists (OTAs). This guarantees a consistent supply of employment opportunities and job stability.
- Rewarding Work: OTAs assist patients in enhancing their daily living and working abilities, resulting in a higher quality of life and independence. This results in a task that is both highly rewarding and fulfilling.
- Competitive Salary and Benefits: OTAs frequently receive competitive salaries and benefits, such as health insurance, retirement programs, and paid time off. Compensation can be quite appealing, particularly when combined with experience and supplementary certifications.
- Diverse Work Environments: OTAs are capable of working in a diverse range of contexts, such as schools, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, hospitals, outpatient clinics, and home health agencies. This diversity enables individuals to select a work environment that aligns with their personal preferences.
- Flexible Work Hours: Numerous OTAs offer the opportunity to work part-time or with flexible hours, which can result in a more satisfactory work-life balance. Shifts that are not consistent with the standard 9-to-5 schedule may be available in certain positions.
- Opportunities for Career Development: There are opportunities for career growth within the field. OTAs have the opportunity to advance to supervisory positions, pursue a career as an occupational therapist (OT), or specialize in fields such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or mental health with the acquisition of additional education and experience.
- Direct Patient Interaction: OTAs establish strong relationships with patients and observe the direct impact of their work on their progress and well-being through close collaboration with them.
- Collaborative Work Environment: OTAs frequently operate as members of a healthcare team, collaborating with occupational therapists, physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. This collaborative effort cultivates an environment that is both dynamic and supportive.
- Continuous Learning and Development: The occupational therapy field is always changing, offering OTAs the opportunity to engage in professional development and continuous learning through seminars, conferences, and continuing education courses.
List of Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs in UK:
NHS Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs in UK:
NHS Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in UK are an excellent choice for individuals passionate about helping patients regain independence. The NHS typically offers salaries ranging from £22,383 to £25,147 per year, depending on the band and experience level. Most roles are full-time and based in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or community health settings.
Candidates don’t always need a university degree, but having prior healthcare experience or NVQ qualifications in health and social care is highly valued. Occupational therapy assistants support qualified therapists by preparing treatment plans, assisting patients in exercises, and monitoring progress. Working with the NHS also provides pension schemes, paid leave, and structured career growth opportunities.
Pediatric Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs in UK:
If you enjoy working with children, then pediatric occupational therapy assistant jobs in UK could be a perfect fit. Salaries for these roles usually range from £23,000 to £27,000 per year, depending on the employer and level of experience. Positions are commonly available in schools, hospitals, and private clinics, focusing on supporting children with developmental delays, physical challenges, or learning difficulties.
Employers often look for candidates with some experience in childcare, teaching assistance, or healthcare. Strong communication, patience, and creativity are key skills in this role. Pediatric OT assistants help design activities, encourage skill development, and work closely with families to support children’s growth and independence.
Mental Health Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs in UK:
Mental health occupational therapy assistant jobs in UK provide rewarding opportunities to support individuals dealing with conditions such as depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia. The average salary for this role typically falls between £24,000 and £28,500 per year, depending on location and employer. These jobs are commonly offered by NHS trusts, mental health facilities, and community services.
Experience in mental health support work, counseling, or social care is highly desirable, though employers often provide additional training. Key responsibilities include helping patients engage in daily activities, encouraging social interaction, and assisting in therapy sessions. With rising awareness of mental health needs, demand for skilled assistants in this area continues to grow.
Rehabilitation Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs in UK:
Rehabilitation occupational therapy assistant jobs in UK are highly sought-after within hospitals, recovery centers, and community care services. The average salary ranges from £25,000 to £29,000 annually, with opportunities for overtime and career progression.
Candidates with prior experience in physiotherapy support, healthcare assistance, or rehabilitation services are preferred. The role involves helping patients recover from injuries, surgeries, or long-term illnesses by supporting therapy sessions, setting up equipment, and motivating patients during recovery. Rehabilitation OT assistants play a vital role in helping individuals restore independence and improve their quality of life.
Education / Qualifications:
Essential:
- A relevant NVQ Level 3 in Care or an appropriate AVCE in Health & Social Care, or a willingness to complete within the agreed-upon timeframe.
- numeracy, literacy, and ITQ level 2 (or equivalent)
Experience:
Essential:
- Experience in paid or voluntary work with individuals who have cognitive disabilities or mental health conditions.
- Working experience in a team.
Desirable:
Experience in an occupational therapy department or working alongside occupational therapists
Skills & Abilities:
Essential:
- Capacity to effectively convey information in a manner that is suitable for the individual and the situation, both in writing and verbally.
- Capacity to operate independently.
- Maintaining records within the designated timeframe.
- time management and the capacity to prioritize effectively.
- Breakaway strategies (within the designated timeframe).
Desirable:
- Self-assurance in the facilitation of group activities.
- Awareness of pertinent legislation
Check Also: Therapy Support Worker Jobs in UK – Visa
Knowledge & Understanding:
Essential:
- Understanding the requirements of service consumers with learning disabilities or mental health conditions.
- Understanding the potential effects of trauma-informed practice on the delivery of occupational therapy interventions.
- Understanding the requirements of individuals from a variety of social, ethnic, and cultural contexts.
- Comprehending therapeutic terminology within the designated timeframe
- Comprehending a diverse array of therapeutic methods (within the designated timeframe)
- Awareness of health and safety concerns (within the designated timeframe)
Desirable:
Understanding of the most prevalent occupational therapy interventions.
Personal Attributes:
Essential:
- Compassionate in addressing the needs of vulnerable individuals, their families, and caregivers.
- Capacity to collaborate with MDT members in order to deliver a service that is effective.
- Dedicated to the ongoing enhancement of quality and service
- Dedicated to the dissemination of a positive perception of individuals with cognitive disabilities or mental health conditions
- Dedicated to the enhancement of the Occupational Therapy Service’s reputation.
Other:
Essential:
Capacity to travel independently in accordance with the trust’s policies and service requirements.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check:
This position is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) of 1975. Consequently, it will be necessary to submit a disclosure application to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as the CRB) to verify any prior criminal convictions.
Certificate of Sponsorship:
All other applications will be considered, including those from job seekers who require current skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK. For additional information, please consult the UK Visas and Immigration website (opens in a new tab).
Since April 6, 2017, skilled worker applicants who are seeking entry clearance into United Kingdom have been required to submit a criminal record certificate from each country in which they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past decade. This requirement also applies to adult dependents who are over the age of 18. Guidance is available at this location. Checks of criminal records for applicants from abroad (opens in a new tab).
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I get started as an occupational therapy assistant in the UK?
There are no set entry requirements for OT support workers. Employers expect good numeracy and literacy, along with some experience or qualifications in health or social care. Employers may ask for GCSEs in English and math. They may ask for a BTEC or equivalent vocational qualification in health and social care.
Is there a need for occupational therapy assistants?
Job Outlook. The projections indicate a 23 percent growth in overall employment for occupational therapy assistants and aides which is significantly faster than the average for all occupations.
Is occupational therapy in demand in the United Kingdom?
Occupational therapy (OT) in the UK provides hope and help for people overcoming physical, mental, or social challenges. As the demand for these skilled professionals grows, navigating the career landscape can be exciting and challenging.
