Occupational therapy

Pulse is a leading recruitment agency for occupational therapy jobs in the UK, with strong relationships with hospitals and trusts, providing employment opportunities for occupational therapists in the NHS, community, social services, and private healthcare organisations.

Occupational therapists help people with day-to-day activities who have difficulty due to disability, illness, or trauma. This involves developing personalised plans with specific goals and adjustments to help individuals carry out daily activities.

Example tasks may include:

• Commuting to work
• Playing sports
• Doing the dishes

Clients may include individuals with mental health conditions, physical disabilities, and elderly people.

Occupational therapy is a broad profession with various specialities, including:

• Acute
• Autism
• Brain Injuries
• Community
• Diabetes
• Hand Therapy
• Mental Health
• Neuro rehab
• Orthopaedic
• Paediatrics
• Rapid response
• Stroke

Seniority levels range from occupational therapy assistants to highly specialist occupational therapists.

The starting salary for an occupational therapist is around £28,407, reaching £34,581 with experience. Senior occupational therapists can earn around £45,839 per year.

Hourly rates are:

• Band 5: £18-23+ per hour
• Band 6: £23-28+ per hour
• Band 7: £28-33+ per hour
• Band 8a: £33-£42+ per hour

To become an occupational therapist, obtain a Bachelor of Science degree or Master of Science degree in occupational therapy, or complete an apprenticeship, and register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

Locum occupational therapists control their working hours, can work part-time, and have flexible scheduling options.

Occupational therapists work in various settings, including:

• Hospitals
• Community facilities
• Schools
• Businesses
• Prisons

Occupational therapists receive excellent rewards, recognition, expert training, and support for career progression.