Clinical Exercise Therapist

Job overview

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Band 5 Lead Clinical exercise therapist in our forensic inpatient service in South West London & St George’s Mental Health Trust. We have a large and supportive therapies team consisting of Occupational therapists, clinical exercise therapists, activity support workers, and technical instructors. The Forensic Inpatient Service is comprised of both medium and low secure wards. The service provides treatment under the Mental Health Act for men and women with mental health problems and who are considered to pose a significant risk of harm to others.  The primary aim of the Forensic Inpatient Service is to provide a safe and secure environment in which to support forensic patients to develop the skills necessary for their recovery and a smooth transition into the community. The therapies team work across the four wards within the service.

Main duties of the job

The postholder will be a key member of the Forensic Occupational Therapy Team, co-ordinating and leading on the provision of exercise interventions and sports activities as part of the secure services programme for all medium and low secure wards.  The service has a small team of clinical exercise therapists that sit within the broader Occupational Therapy team.  The postholder will lead this aspect of the team providing a range of sports and exercise interventions and activities that reflect the needs of forensic inpatients, as well as developing initiatives that educate and motivate patients to adopt and maintain healthier lifestyles.   There will be opportunity to lead on specific quality improvement and service development projects in line with need of the service. Innovation is encouraged.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

To work effectively as a member of the OT team and provide a programme. of ward, department and community based therapeutic activities. This will include leading on the development and facilitation of sports and exercise interventions and activities across the secure service.

To assess patients’ suitability for exercise, adhering to ACSM guidelines where appropriate

To discuss concerns around any identified medical contraindications to exercise with OT, Clinical Exercise Therapy colleagues, ward staff and MDT medical staff

To tailor patients sports and exercise programmes to their individual needs, taking personal interests and any possible limitations into account.

To be aware of patient history/background/culture/risk and take this into account when designing personalised exercise programmes.

To promote and support individual choice and maximum independence, respecting patients’ beliefs and ensuring privacy and dignity.

To be familiar with medication and the possible side effects when planning /designing/delivering exercise programmes.

To maintain all fitness equipment to a satisfactory level, ensuring regular maintenance in line with Trust health and safety standards.

To continually evaluate patient progress, exercise programmes and risk assessments as patient’s needs change, making timely alterations to exercise programmes accordingly.

To assess and manage risk effectively within clinical and community settings, ensuring a safe environment in which to exercise.