Occupational Therapy Assistant

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Opportunity to join an innovative and forward‑thinking team! This is a full‑time post but part‑time hours/job share will be considered.

As a full‑time Occupational Therapy Assistant you will support patients admitted to the ward. Flexibility is required, including weekends and evenings.

Harvest Ward is an 8‑bed psychiatric intensive care unit that provides assessment and treatment for inpatients aged 18 and over presenting with a mental health crisis. We work to provide a therapeutic environment that promotes person‑centred care and recovery focus.

This role is currently only open to people who already work for the NHS in Cornwall or the Isles of Scilly. Only current employees of the following organisations may apply:

• Cornwall Foundation Trust
• Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust
• Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board

Closing date: 02 August 2026

• Support occupational therapy‑led therapeutic groups, moving on groups, life skills, sensory and functional activities.
• Use practical, communication and creative skills to provide a flexible programme of groups and individual activities on and off the ward.
• Co‑facilitate activity‑based groups in collaboration with third‑sector/partner agencies where appropriate.
• Coordinate volunteers in group delivery.
• Provide support for specific interventions identified from occupational assessment, which may be ward‑based or in the community.

• Qualification to level 3 or equivalent experience in relevant subject.
• Experience providing social and recreational activities in group settings and individually.
• Experience working with people who have cognitive, physical, learning disability or challenging behaviour.
• Recent experience working in a mental health setting.
• Qualifications in exercise, complementary therapies etc.
• Previous NHS experience.

• Ability to use persuasive, motivational and reassurance strategies to build rapport and engage patients in activities.
• Personal practical or creative skills (e.g., craft, music, art, cookery, physical activities).

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and a submission for Disclosure to the Disclosure and Barring Service is required to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust

£25,760 to £27,476 a year

Per Annum/Pro Rata