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Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Communication Skills:

• Using verbal, non-verbal and written communication skills to ensure that patients and carers have an understanding of their condition and aims of therapy input.
• The Therapist must effectively alter their communication techniques according to individual needs of patients (for example the patient may have a learning disability, sensory problems, neurological difficulties or may not use English as their first language).
• To be able to effectively communicate with the multidisciplinary team where required. 
• To escalate concerns to senior staff in a timely manner, if there are any concerns regarding patients safety and or staff. Such as completing DATIX forms, safeguarding referrals in line with Trust policy.
• To represent the therapy service in meetings with the aim of actively contributing and reporting back relevant information.
• Maintain accurate clinical records in accordance with professional and trust standards.
• To produce timely and accurate electronic patient records and reports in accordance with governing body regulations

Professional Skills:

• The Therapist must be able to adapt their intervention to meet the needs of the individual patients. Patients seen will range from the vulnerable, to those who are extremely well informed about their condition.

• The therapist must take a holistic view of patients and their wellbeing, providing a patient centred approach to their care. The therapist must be sensitive to patients’ own cultures, beliefs and emotions.

• To be professionally and legally accountable for all aspects of own work including the management of patients in your care.
• To participate in specific projects within your area of work to enhance patient care and service delivery.
• To supervise and support assistants and students with guidance from line manager when needed.
• To effectively manage your own workload within your working hours. This will include the completion of clinical and non-clinical tasks.
• Actively participate in Continuous Professional Development and maintain a portfolio recording learning outcomes.
• To take an active part in the therapy in service training programme, helping to deliver the training as required.
• Ongoing evaluation of own work and current practices through the use of Evidence Based Practice. To participate in audits and implementation of outcome measures for service development.  
• Demonstrate a sound understanding of Clinical Governance and Risk Management and apply this understanding to work situations.
• To deputise in the absence of therapy leads. To work when required on a flexible basis across localities to cover service needs.
• Delegate tasks appropriately to assistants, carers and other professionals.
• Demonstrate an awareness of trust wide and local policies and procedures.
• Understand national guidelines and legislations relating to health and social care and their impact on service provision.
• Maintain confidentiality at all times, consistent with Trust policy.
• Adhere to the relevant RCOT and HCPC professional guidelines

Education and Research: 

•  Maintain appropriate and up to date knowledge and skills by undertaking training for professional development in accordance with personal and service needs.
• Identify learning needs and provide training and mentoring to support team members, students and health care professionals.
• To provide clinical support to colleagues as required.
• To actively participate in clinical supervision on a regular basis in line with Trust guidelines.
• To participate in annual appraisal and maintain a personal development plan.
• To participate in service development to ensure innovative practice and maintenance of standards.
• Complete mandatory training in line with Trust policy and procedures