About this role
Job summary
The Forensic Intensive Recovery Support Team (FIRST) are seeking a dynamic Occupational Therapist to deliver a high-quality, recovery-focused occupational therapy service that supports safe, person-centred, and timely transitions into and out of secure forensic mental health care. The postholder will work collaboratively across inpatient and community settings to facilitate therapeutic discharge planning, reduce risk, and promote reintegration into the community.We are seeking to recruit an enthusiastic Occupational Therapist to join our expanding team and work within the Forensic Intensive Recovery and Support Team (FIRST). We are looking for an individual who is passionate about making a difference to the lives of people who have experienced forensic inpatient services and is committed to the development and delivery of a high quality, service and discharge pathway. We require someone who is flexible and approachable. Effective communication skills, time management, record keeping and organisational skills are essential, as is the ability to work well with all members of the multi-disciplinary team.
FIRST work closely with other forensic services in the West Midlands, as part of the REACH OUT partnership, a new provider collaborative. MPUFT's FIRST support men and women from the northern West Midlands in the process of discharge from forensic inpatient services and work to ensure safe, effective and successful transitions to the community.
Main duties of the job
The post holder will provide specialist, high-quality, recovery-focused occupational therapy interventions within the FIRST service for adults with complex and enduring mental health needs. Working autonomously, the post holder will manage a complex and high-risk caseload, undertaking advanced occupational therapy assessments, developing collaborative care plans, and delivering evidence-based interventions that promote functional independence, wellbeing, and meaningful occupation.The role requires advanced clinical reasoning, leadership in risk assessment and positive risk-taking, and active involvement in discharge planning and care coordination. The post holder will work closely with multidisciplinary colleagues, carers, and partner agencies to ensure integrated, person-centred care. In addition, the post holder will provide clinical leadership, supervision and support to junior staff and students, contribute to service development and quality improvement, uphold clinical governance standards, and ensure documentation complies with professional, legal, and organisational requirements.This is a full-time post with an opportunity to work in a hybrid way with some home working offering a work/life balance. Due to the nature of the work involved in this role you will require a driving licence and access to a car.
About us
Come and work with us at our award-winning NHS Trust, leading the way for trying new and better ways of working to help improve life for our local communities.
We have around 9,000 staff who provide physical and mental healthcare, support for people with learning disabilities, and adult social care across Staffordshire, Stoke-on-Trent, Shropshire, and Telford & Wrekin. We also run regional and national services, including help for new parents (perinatal care), eating disorders, forensic services, sexual health, and support for people in prison with mental health, drug, or alcohol problems.
We offer great career development for both clinical and non-clinical roles, with ongoing training and support to help you learn and grow.
We are 'United in our Uniqueness' and committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels welcome and can be themselves, no matter their background or identity. We want our staff to feel supported and valued, and we aim to build a team that reflects the communities we serve. Together, we can make sure every voice is heard, and every difference is respected.
Please note, we may be required to close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications
Please be aware that the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in completing application forms will be monitored to ensure fairness and transparency. If you have used AI you must state this in your application.
Job description Job responsibilities
**Please see the attached Job Description & Person Specification information for further details on the role.**
Person Specification
Qualifications & Training Essential
Dip COT or degree in Occupational Therapy HCPC Registered
Desirable
Training in relevant assessment tools (e.g., MOHOST, OCAIRS)
Experience Essential
Experience working in mental health settings
Desirable
Experience in inpatient mental health or crisis services or forensic / criminal justice setting Experience of working with challenging behaviour and/or in secure settings Experience with complex discharge coordination
Skills, Knowledge & Abilities Essential
Ability to work with clients with complex needs. Strong enhanced communication, organisational, and risk assessment skills Post qualification courses in occupational therapy
Desirable
Evidence of delivering Occupational Therapy interventions through group and individual work in a variety of settings e.g. community ward and patients' home
Disclosure and Barring Service Check This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Certificate of Sponsorship Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).
From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).
UK Registration
Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).
Employer details Employer name Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
Address St George's Hospital (FIRST geographical area)
Stafford
ST16 3SR
Employer's website https://www.mpft.nhs.uk (Opens in a new tab)