Specialist

FAQS

Who are occupational therapy support workers?

Occupational therapy support workers assist registered occupational therapists as well as patients in daily activities. Typically, this can involve assisting occupational therapists with any of their daily tasks, or interacting with patients, and providing care. This can include things such as helping with washing, dressing, or eating, or even assistance at home or work. Like occupational therapists, occupational therapy support workers do what they can to help patients adapt to their environment whilst allowing them to continue activities that are important to them, and lead independent lives.

Occupational therapy support workers can often help assist patients with exercises, teach them how to perform activities or use equipment, and work under the supervision of an occupational therapist to provide assistance when needed.

What’s it really like?

The occupational therapy support worker role is a really rewarding career opportunity, and can be a great way to further understand how occupational therapists work. It’s important to remember that the two roles do have different roles and responsibilities. Occupational therapists will often be responsible for creating the treatment plan that a patient completes, and they’ll evaluate the patient along the way to ensure that this plan is suitable. Occupational therapy support workers meanwhile, will often use these evaluations to help support the patient’s activities, and will help observe and encourage the patient to progress with this development.

What do I need to become an occupational therapy support worker?

At the moment, there are no set entry requirements to become an occupational therapy support worker. There are certain things that employers may ask for however, including some experience or qualifications within health and social care. When looking at vacancies, it’s important to check if there are any particular requirements that you may have to fulfil.

Typically, the interest in these vacancies are high, and so it’s important to do what you can to stand out. Employers will often value evidence of relevant work experience, either paid or voluntary. Additionally, getting in touch with the employer and enquiring about the necessary skills or experience needed can often set a good impression that could lead to a successful application.

Can I get financial support?

When employed by the NHS or a care provider, occupational therapy support workers will typically work 37.5 hours per week, and will start at around £20,000 but this can rise.

What do I need to know?

From April 2022, all applicants must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before the start of the course, or provide valid proof of medical exemption. Health and social care professionals are subject to the UK government’s vaccine mandate, meaning that all people working in health and social care settings are required to be vaccinated.

Where do I apply?

If you’re looking to be based in England and interested in becoming an occupational therapy support worker nursing associate, or training to become one on your journey to become a qualified nurse, there are a few places that you can apply. It’s important to know this isn’t an exhaustive list - but it should point you in the right direction.

Health Education England

As part of the NHS, Health Education England is committed to improving the quality of services through education reform. They often highlight many vacancies for aspiring occupational therapy support workers.

Health Jobs UK

As an independent health and social care jobs board, Health Jobs UK highlights trainee occupational therapy support worker opportunities throughout different areas of the sector.

National Careers Service

This government run site hosts different courses and career opportunities for you to search - allowing you to apply for the pathway that’s best for you.

NHS

The UK’s largest healthcare provider, providing universal healthcare for those who need care. The NHS is an invaluable source of possibilities for those wanting to train as occupational therapy support workers.

Assist patients and occupational therapists in an important role

Explore new opportunities as an occupational therapy support worker

FAQS