Job summary
Regrettably, we cannot offer sponsorship for all of our job roles. If you apply for a role that we cannot offer sponsorship for, unfortunately your application form be rejected from the process.

Please note this vacancy requires a face to face interview with the Recruiting Manager. Applicants that are unable to attend a face to face interview need not apply.

This may close early if sufficient number of applications have been received.

If you are interested in working with those with mental health difficulties, if you are looking towards a potential change in career direction, if you enjoy working as part of a team, but are able to use your initiative, then this could be the role for you.

We are looking for a highly motivated Occupational Therapy Assistant to work as part of the wider community mental health Occupational Therapy team in Colchester.

Main duties of the job
The post holder will be part of the Community Mental Health Occupational Therapy provision that works as an integral part of the Community Mental Health team serving the North East Essex Locality.

The post holder will be guided by senior OT team members in all aspects supporting the delivery of specific treatment interventions to those within the service on either an individual or group basis.

You will have the opportunity to work with clients within their homes, the community, remotely and at the team base.

As part of the team you will have the opportunity to develop your skills and knowledge in Mental health, and learn about specific approaches and management of certain conditions.

About us
Valuing you. Recognising your dedication. At EPUT, we look after you.

• Receive supervision and support to help you fulfil your potential.
• Join an inclusive EPUT community and connect with others through engagement events and equality or champion networks.
• If you need help, we provide mental health and wellbeing services, occupational health advice and counselling.
• We run recognition awards to recognise staff's hard work and dedication.

Benefits

• 27 days holiday, plus bank holidays, rising to 33 days after 10 years' service.
• Excellent pension of up to 14.5% of your pensionable pay.
• Staff discounts include Blue Light Card, NHS discount offers, and staff benefits.
• Season ticket loans are interest-free to cover the cost of travelling to and from work via tram, rail, or bus.

Work that wraps around your needs

• Flexible working: available from day one for most roles.
• Job share: Applications for job shares are welcomed.

Date posted: 20 October 2026
Pay scheme: Agenda for change
Band: Band 3
Salary: £25,760 to £27,476 a year per annum, pro rata for part time
Contract: Permanent
Working pattern: Part-time
Reference number: 364-B-558
Closing date: 27 October 2026

Job responsibilities
The successful post holder will be guided in working with adults with a variety of serious mental health conditions. You will have the opportunity to develop a range of skills that will facilitate your work.

You will be working to support recovery, helping individuals develop strategies to manage their mental health and encourage positive rehabilitation.

You will be expected to be willing and able to work across a range of community sites and travel in a time efficient manner.

Additional details are held within the detailed job description.

Person Specification
Education/ Qualifications
Essential

• English/ Maths GCSE 4 (C) or equivalent 5 GCSEs Between 9-4 (A* - C) or equivalent

Desirable

• Relevant healthcare experience
• Experience of working with others

Knowledge
Essential

• Ability to accurately observe basic function and ability

Desirable

• Experience of supporting people with activities of daily living
• Awareness of different mental health conditions

Skills and Experience
Essential

• High level of written and verbal communication
• Effective use of IT
• Experience in using activities as a therapeutic medium

Desirable

• Full valid driving license and access to a car for business use/ Ability to travel between community sites in an efficient and timely manner
• Experience in Group facilitation

Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Employer details
Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, Herrick House, Colchester, CO1 1ST, United Kingdom
Apply through our website

For questions about the job, contact:
AHP Lead and Clinical Manager, Matthew Waters, Matthew.waters2@nhs.net

Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust's privacy notice