Occupational therapy support worker
Occupational therapy support workers work with occupational therapists to help sick, injured or old people to be as independent as possible.
Typical Salary
£24,000 – £30,000
per year
Working Hours
40–42
hours per week
Day-to-day tasks
As an occupational therapy support worker, you could:
- encourage clients with mental health issues to create a daily routine
- assist children with physical disabilities to enjoy play activities
- help clients who have had a stroke or been in an accident to adjust to their disability
- show clients how to use equipment that helps them to live independently
- check that equipment is in good working order and keep a record of items
Skills needed
- knowledge of psychology
- to be flexible and open to change
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- the ability to work well with others
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- customer service skills
- counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
- sensitivity and understanding
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
How to get into this role
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
Career progression
With experience you could:
- become a team leader and supervise other occupational therapy support workers
- learn on the job and gain further qualifications such as a foundation degree in health and social care
- do a degree or degree apprenticeship to become an occupational therapist