Band 6 Locum Adults Occupational Therapist

Enabling Independence Officer – Trusted Assessor

Job Overview

Tripod Partners are currently recruiting for an Enabling Independence Officer – Trusted Assessor to join the London Borough of Sutton Adult First Contact Service, based at St Nicholas Way, Sutton.

This is a frontline service delivery role focused on enabling independence, improving service efficiency and reducing waiting times for essential equipment and home adaptations. You will manage a caseload of straightforward adaptation cases, working closely with Occupational Therapists, Social Workers, technical officers and external agencies to ensure residents receive timely and effective support to remain independent in their own homes.

The role is offered on a locum basis for an initial 26 weeks to cover a secondment/sabbatical, with the potential for ongoing work. The working pattern is 3 days in the office and 2 days remotely.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as a specialist Trusted Assessor, managing a caseload of straightforward equipment and adaptation cases.
• Assess home environments, identify risks and recommend practical solutions that promote independence and safety.
• Support the timely delivery of equipment and adaptations, including stairlifts, ramps and accessible bathing/showering solutions.
• Work collaboratively with Occupational Therapists, Social Workers, technical officers and external agencies to coordinate effective service delivery.
• Act as a link between service users and the adaptation delivery process, ensuring appropriate solutions are progressed efficiently.
• Apply established Trusted Assessor protocols, legislation, regulations and adaptation guidance when carrying out assessments and making recommendations.
• Use professional judgement to resolve straightforward problems and support effective outcomes for service users.
• Identify bottlenecks and delays within the assessment and adaptation process and contribute ideas for improving service efficiency.
• Support the implementation and review of improved ways of working to enhance service user outcomes and reduce waiting times.
• Maintain appropriate standards of quality, safety, compliance and effective assessment practice.
• Work as an effective member of multidisciplinary teams and maintain up-to-date knowledge of relevant legislation and guidance.

About You

We are looking for a proactive and efficient professional who is confident working in a frontline adult social care environment and able to manage straightforward cases with a strong focus on achieving timely outcomes.

You will have the ability to assess situations, identify practical solutions and exercise sound professional judgement while working within established legislative and Trusted Assessor frameworks. Strong communication and collaborative working skills are essential, as the role involves working closely with service users, Occupational Therapists, Social Workers, technical colleagues and external agencies.

Requirements

• Experience working within an adult social care, health, housing, equipment or adaptations environment.
• Experience of assessing needs and identifying practical solutions that support independence and safety.
• Understanding of equipment, home adaptations and their role in supporting people to remain independent.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation, regulations and guidance relating to equipment and adaptations.
• Ability to work within Trusted Assessor protocols and established professional frameworks.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage a caseload and prioritise work effectively.
• Ability to identify risks, resolve straightforward problems and make appropriate professional recommendations.
• Excellent communication and multidisciplinary working skills.
• Commitment to high-quality, safe and efficient service delivery.

Professional Support & Governance

The post holder will report to the Team Manager or Assistant Team Manager within the Adult First Contact Service. Professional supervision and clinical governance will be provided by a Lead Occupational Therapist, supporting safe and effective assessment practice.

Contract & Salary

• Job Title: Enabling Independence Officer – Trusted Assessor
• Location: London Borough of Sutton – St Nicholas Way, Sutton
• Area: South London Social Services
• Job Type: Locum
• Contract: 26 weeks to cover secondment/sabbatical, ongoing requirement
• Working Hours: 36 hours per week
• Working Pattern: 3 days office-based, 2 days remote
• Pay Rate: £26.56 per hour Limited/Umbrella
• Reference: U. OR110283. 011008.B20846

How to Apply

If you are an experienced Trusted Assessor or professional with relevant adult social care, equipment and adaptations experience and are looking for your next locum opportunity in South London, we would be pleased to hear from you.

Apply using the form on the page.