Physiotherapy Assistant

Job overview

Physiotherapy Department at University Hospitals Plymouth NHT Trust is looking for a flexible, enthusiastic and motivated individual to join the inpatient teams. The post holder will work alongside Physiotherapists and the multidisciplinary team within the inpatient service.

This post is designed to support the delivery of seven day services to the health care of the elderly, medical, orthopaedic, cardiothoracic wards and hydrotherapy, providing physiotherapeutic intervention to patients across the acute hospital setting. Physiotherapy assistants are integral to the successful provision of care by aiding Physiotherapists to mobilise, rehabilitate and encourage patients with their individual treatment programmes across in and outpatient services. Once competent, the successful candidates will carry their own caseload of patients in addition to working alongside the multidisciplinary wards teams to support the hospital discharge process. Duties will also include the care of walking aids in addition to general duties within the outpatient department and administration tasks.

***Preference will be given to internal Trust staff, as well as ‘Priority’ and 'At Risk' status including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon who are able to display recent relevant experience as dictated by the Person Specification.***

Main duties of the job

Working under the supervision of Physiotherapy staff, to undertake a variety of tasks (clinical and non-clinical), to support the delivery of physiotherapy to patients.

To work under the direct and indirect supervision and direction of physiotherapy staff in the performance of specific tasks for an individual or group of patients, as part of their treatment and rehabilitation programmes.  Supervision takes the form of a physiotherapist supervising the post holder (usually daily but at least weekly) by direct observation of practise, regular formal and informal training.  Access to advice and support from senior physiotherapists is always available, regular checks will be made to ensure workload is managed, clinical work and case notes are routinely evaluated.

The Physiotherapy Department can offer you a friendly and social atmosphere with a forward thinking and progressive attitude to the changing face of the NHS. If you join our department you will benefit from a well-established appraisal scheme, in-service training, encouragement with CPD and excellent senior and peer support. Clinical specialists enhance the clinical lead within the department, encouraging evidence based practice and research / audit.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

See the attached job description for the role, and (where applicable) you can download a copy of the full job description.