Occupational Therapist
Occupational therapists help people live their best life at home, at work – and everywhere else. Occupational therapy provides practical support to enable people to do the things people need, want and have to do. That could mean helping someone overcome challenges going to work, living with a disability, or simply doing the dishes.
As an occupational therapist, you’ll use your creativity and problem-solving skills to support people who find some areas of life difficult. That means talking to them to understand their needs, seeing challenges through their eyes, and helping them find ways to overcome those challenges.
What is unique about this role?
Occupational therapists work with a number of people at any one time. This is often referred to as a caseload. Day-to-day work involves assessing people’s physical, psychological, social and environmental needs, considering their strengths, abilities and health care needs.
Occupational therapists will find out what someone wants and needs to be able to do and then consider if your home or work environment supports or hinders their ability to do those things. This might include support with self-care, household chores, getting out and about, adaptations to your home, finding or staying in work or education, or taking part in social and leisure activities.
Occupational therapists also play a vital role in helping people recover after hospital discharge working alongside social workers and physiotherapists and the NHS. Occupational therapists can make a real difference giving a renewed sense of purpose, opening up new horizons, and changing the way people feel about the future.
Career Pathway
One of the things that makes occupational therapy such a rewarding career is the sheer variety on offer – you’ll have the chance to work with all sorts of people and organisations, in a wide range of environments. You can also choose to work for yourself.
We have a wide range of training and development opportunities available in Calderdale, including ILM management and leadership programmes.
With experience, you’ll find opportunities to move into management, research or continue your studies at postgraduate level.