*INTERNAL MPFT APPLICATIONS ONLY* - Diversional Therapist

Job overview

This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship. If it is identified that you require sponsorship to undertake this role your application may be withdrawn

We are seeking an enthusiastic and compassionate Diversional Therapist to join our inpatient rehabilitation team. In this rewarding role, you will plan, organise, and deliver a varied programme of therapeutic, social, and recreational activities that enhance patients' wellbeing, build confidence, promote independence, and support their rehabilitation journey.

Working closely with nursing, therapy, and multidisciplinary teams, you will provide both group and one-to-one activities tailored to individual needs and interests. From creative and physical activities to health promotion initiatives and community engagement, you will help create a welcoming and stimulating environment where patients can thrive.

The successful candidate will have excellent communication skills, a caring and person-centred approach, and the ability to motivate and engage individuals with diverse needs. Experience within a rehabilitation, healthcare, therapy, or care setting is desirable, along with the ability to work flexibly as part of a supportive multidisciplinary team.

Main duties of the job

Plan and deliver a varied programme of therapeutic, social and recreational activities that support patients' rehabilitation, wellbeing and independence. Facilitate group and one-to-one sessions, including games, arts and crafts, health promotion, gardening and gentle exercise, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment that encourages engagement and confidence.

Work collaboratively with nursing, therapy and multidisciplinary teams to tailor activities to individual needs and rehabilitation goals. Support patients with daily living activities and personal care when required, while promoting independence and maximising physical, emotional and social wellbeing.

Encourage involvement from relatives, carers and community organisations where appropriate. Monitor participation and wellbeing, reporting concerns and contributing to care planning and reviews. Maintain accurate records in line with Trust requirements.

Assist with ward operations through delegated clinical, administrative and housekeeping duties, including stock control, equipment checks and maintaining a safe environment. Participate in training, team meetings and professional development to ensure high standards of patient care.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Role Summary

• To organise and provide a programme of appropriate social, client centred activities in order to build confidence, promote self-esteem and aid the rehabilitation process. To act as a link person between rehabilitation ward and voluntary community based agencies.
• Undertake assigned duties involving direct patient care under the supervision of the qualified nurse. To assist the qualified staff to meet the physical, psychological and spiritual needs of the patient.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

General

• Plan, coordinate a programme of activities for clients within the rehabilitation setting. This may be on a one to one basis, or in a group session. This may incorporate:
• Group discussions
• Board games
• Development of hobby groups
• Interest crafts
• Physical and exercise sessions working closely with therapy colleagues
• Outdoor activities such as gardening etc
• Health promotion activities
• 1.1.1 Promote a friendly welcoming atmosphere where clients can feel relaxed and comfortable 1.1.2 Involve relative and carers, as appropriate, in patient centred activities 1.1.3 Liaise with nursing staff regarding the client’s condition, problems and behaviour. 1.1.4 Record diversional therapy input in collaborative care plans. To contribute to the multi-disciplinary team meetings regarding individual patient’s progress. 1.1.5 Assist clients with aspects of personal hygiene, dietary and elimination needs, depending on their individual abilities. 1.1.6 Work as part of a team, or self-directed as necessary. 1.1.7 Assist within client rehabilitation programmes, promoting independence whilst liaising with other members of the multi-disciplinary team. 1.1.8 Communicate with members of the multi-disciplinary team to ensure effective continuity of patient care.

The following duties do not form the core of this job description; however it is expected that this post will contribute to the workload of the department and fellow clinical support workers within the team in the following areas.

• 1.1.9 Contribute to the effective and efficient day to day running of the department/ward by undertaking clerical/clinical duties as assigned by the department manager. 1.1.10 Carry out any agreed department procedures, having received the necessary training and been assessed as competent to do so, in accordance with Trust Policy. 1.1.11 Assist in the preparation of the patient and equipment for investigation and treatment purposes. 1.1.12 Act as chaperon and assist qualified members of the multi-disciplinary team in treatment and examination of the patient. 1.1.13 Acquire the necessary knowledge base and skills to perform basic life support. 1.1.14 Contribute to the maintenance of the department by basic cleaning and tidying to ensure a safe working environment. 1.1.15 Assist in the ordering of supplies and maintaining stock rotation. 1.1.16 Check and clean non-technical equipment. 1.1.17 Observe patients and report any changes to qualified members of staff. 1.1.18 To develop the ability to undertake agreed treatments and procedures once the assessment process is complete e.g. venepuncture, Blood glucose, Urinalysis and attach monitor equipment to the patient. 1.1.19 Correct positioning of limbs requiring immobilisation and elevation. 1.1.20 Organise and co-ordinate group and individual exercise classes.
• Professional Development
• Take every reasonable opportunity to maintain and improve your professional knowledge and competence.
• Participate in personal objective setting and review, including the creation of a personal development plan.
• Attend mandatory training as required
• Health and Safety
• Take reasonable care for your own Health and Safety and that of any other person who may be affected by your acts or omissions at work.
• Co-operate with MPFT in ensuring that statutory regulations, codes of practice, local policies and departmental health and safety rules are adhered to.
• Confidentiality
• Ensure that confidentiality is maintained at all times in conjunction with the Trust’s Confidentiality Policy.
• Other
• Act in such a manner to promote good relationships between all wards and departments within the hospital
• Act in such a manner to promote the professional attitude of the department to patients and members of the general public.
• participate in department meetings
• Follow Trust policy for accepting gifts, donations and proceeds of fundraising, as laid down in financial instructions
• Collection and collation of statistics with a view to aid audit.
• Any other duties as deemed appropriate.

Applicant requirements

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service.