Rehabilitation Support Worker; Elective Orthopaedics

Role Summary

Are you looking to work within a friendly, dynamic team within the acute healthcare environment? Are you interested in supporting the rehabilitation of Orthopaedic patients following admission to hospital to enable them to regain their mobility and independence? If so, then look no further...

An exciting opportunity has arisen for someone motivated and compassionate to join our dedicated inpatient Trauma & Orthopaedic Physiotherapy team at the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, based on the main Royal Devon & Exeter hospital site (Wonford). We have a permanent, full-time (37.5 hours) Senior Allied Health Professional Support Worker position available.

This role involves providing a range of therapeutic interventions, treatments and exercise programmes to patients and liaising with patients and family / carers in discharge planning and prevention of falls.

The post-holder will be expected to identify and support the physical limitations of a patient's disability and their functional problems to support the therapy team to deliver early routine assessments and rehabilitation. There will be a requirement to develop strong links with the multidisciplinary teams working in the acute and community settings. The caseload will be patients recovering from planned orthopaedic surgery and patients who have suffered traumatic injury who require rehabilitation to support them to be discharged home or to their normal place of residence.

There will be a strong Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy focus within the role and an expectation to support both professions on a daily basis.

All members of the team will be expected to work across all areas and be available for the shifts between 8am and 8pm across 7 days including weekends and bank holidays. The post holder will work flexibly in other areas if required.

Based within the heart of beautiful Devon and just off the M5, Exeter has a lot to offer, with a stunning coastline and picturesque moors within throwing distance of the city.

This role carries the potential to be a developmental opportunity with educational support offered to candidates looking to progress from band 2 Rehab Support Worker to the band 3 Senior Support Worker role.

8am-8pm Mon-Fri. Weekends and bank holidays on a rota basis.

To Be Confirmed

Richard Edwards - Clinical Lead Physiotherapist.  

As an inclusive employer, the Royal Devon values diversity and is committed to creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We believe in fostering a sense of belonging and actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities. We recognise the advantages of having a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.

Preference will be given to staff with ‘Priority’ and 'At Risk' status including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon.

The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust reserves the right to close vacancy when sufficient applications have been received.

• Band 3: £25,760- £27,476 per annum pro rata
• Annual Frequency
• Vacancy Reference
• Contract Type:
  Permanent
• Closing Date 9 July, 2026
• Job Category:
  Physiotherapy
• Staff Group:
  Allied Health Professionals

In addition to the above salary, employees receive annual leave of 27 days paid (plus bank holidays), rising to 33 days plus bank holidays. Comprehensive occupational health services, counselling, onsite wellbeing activities and group support are available. Flexibility in working schemes and family friendly policies are offered. Opportunities for development, including funding for care certificate, degree or leadership qualifications, CPD and rotational placements are supported.

Benefits include national discount services such as the Blue Light Card, salary sacrifice options including a nursery onsite at Exeter, car lease schemes, NHS Pension scheme, and cycle to work scheme.