Locum Learning Disabilities Occupational Therapist

Paediatric Occupational Therapist

Brief Job Overview

Tripod Partners are recruiting an experienced Paediatric Occupational Therapist for a locum opportunity with Dorset Council. Working within South West Social Services, you will support children and young people with a wide range of physical, developmental, and learning disabilities, delivering person-centred Occupational Therapy interventions that promote independence, participation, and the best possible outcomes.

This community-based role offers the opportunity to manage a varied caseload, undertaking holistic assessments, developing tailored intervention plans, and working closely with families, carers, education providers, health professionals, and partner agencies. You will play a vital role in helping children and young people maximise their independence and participate fully in everyday life.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of children and young people, undertaking holistic assessments of functional needs, risks, and support requirements.
• Develop, implement, and regularly review person-centred care and support plans.
• Provide evidence-based Occupational Therapy interventions that promote independence, participation, and wellbeing.
• Assess for and recommend specialist equipment, assistive technology, and housing adaptations where appropriate.
• Work collaboratively with children, families, carers, schools, health professionals, and partner agencies to achieve positive outcomes.
• Maintain accurate clinical records, reports, and statutory documentation in line with professional standards.
• Contribute to safeguarding, risk management, and service development initiatives.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, duty functions, and referral management.
• Promote strengths-based practice and support children to achieve meaningful occupational goals.
• Undertake community visits across Dorset as part of service delivery.

About You

You will be a HCPC-registered Occupational Therapist with experience supporting children or individuals with physical disabilities and/or learning disabilities. You will have strong assessment and communication skills together with a commitment to delivering high-quality, person-centred Occupational Therapy services.

You will enjoy working collaboratively with families and multidisciplinary teams while managing an autonomous community caseload and contributing to continuous service improvement.

Requirements

• Degree or Diploma in Occupational Therapy (DipCOT, BSc Occupational Therapy, or equivalent).
• Current HCPC registration.
• Evidence of continuing professional development (CPD).
• Experience working with people with physical disabilities and/or learning disabilities.
• Strong assessment, communication, record-keeping, and IT skills.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation, disability issues, manual handling, and health and safety requirements.
• Ability to travel across Dorset and undertake community-based visits.
• Desirable: Experience working within a Local Authority setting.
• Desirable: Experience with housing adaptations and equipment provision.
• Desirable: Qualification in moving and handling.
• Desirable: Experience working with disabled children.

Contract & Salary

• Role: Paediatric Occupational Therapist
• Employer: Dorset Council
• Area: South West Social Services
• Location: Dorchester
• Contract Type: Locum
• Contract Length: Ongoing
• Salary: Negotiable
• Working Pattern: Community-based with travel across Dorset.

How to Apply

If you are an experienced HCPC-registered Paediatric Occupational Therapist with a passion for supporting children and young people to achieve greater independence and positive outcomes, Tripod Partners would love to hear from you.

To apply for this Paediatric Occupational Therapist role, apply using the form on the page.

Code: U. 004008.B20808