Driving Assessor - Occupational Therapist

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong report writing and IT skills
• A flexible and professional approach
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Experience in this field is not necessary full training provided
• A full UK driving licence is required, as the role involves in-car assessments and travel

• Full training and support will be provided.

• To be professionally and legally accountable for all aspects of own work and maintain high standards of clinical care.
• To independently manage a caseload of driver, passenger and outdoor mobility assessments, often working autonomously.
• To undertake comprehensive assessments of clients with physical, cognitive, neurological and learning impairments, including those with complex or multiple conditions.
• To undertake assessments informed by evidence-based practice, specialist training and professional development.
• To identify physical, cognitive and psychosocial factors that may impact assessment outcomes and recommendations.
• To build effective working relationships with external agencies including NHS services, Adult Social Care, DVLA, Motability and equipment providers.
• To ensure clients feel informed, supported and at ease throughout the assessment process.
• To communicate sensitively and effectively with clients who may experience anxiety, distress or frustration.
• To support the Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) during assessments by providing clinical insight into a clients needs and potential risks.
• To communicate assessment outcomes clearly and professionally, including situations where difficult or sensitive information must be shared.
• To ensure clients understand any recommendations made, including responsibilities relating to notifying the DVLA where appropriate.
• To undertake risk assessments in line with William Merritt Centre policies and procedures.
• To ensure the safe use of equipment including vehicles, vehicle adaptations, wheelchairs and moving and handling equipment.
• To coordinate equipment required for assessments and liaise with external agencies where necessary.
• To participate in referral discussions, screening and service planning.
• To provide information and advice regarding assistive technology, vehicle adaptations and mobility solutions.
• To contribute to the development of displays, resources and information materials within the Centre.
• To undertake outreach clinics in Doncaster and surrounding areas. A vehicle will be provided for outreach travel.
• To work in accordance with Health and Safety legislation and maintain the physical capability required to undertake assessments safely.
• To maintain HCPC registration and work within professional standards and codes of conduct.
• To contribute to flexible working practices to meet service and organisational needs, including occasional promotional or educational events.

Essential

• Ability to use clinical reasoning to inform practice and make sound decisions.
• Ability to communicate clearly and present information, written and orally in a clear and logical manner
• To contribute to service development
• To remain up to date with professional practice
• Ability to understand the legal implications of the profession
• Ability to cope with stressful situations
• To demonstrate competent IT skills and ability to learn.

Desirable

• To demonstrate good presentation skills

Essential

• Ability to maintain judgment under pressure and deal with complex medical conditions
• Ability to solve problems and think flexibly to solve them
• Reliable and flexible in approach to complex situations and service developments
• Team worker being able to work with clinical and non-clinical support staff
• Knowledge of the work of The William Merritt Centre
• Ability to cope with organisational change
• Ability to develop rapport with clients quickly

Essential

• Degree/Diploma in Occupational Therapy
• HCPC Registration.

Desirable

• Membership of professional body
• Evidence of CPD maintained in a professional portfolio.
• Awarded the Driving Assessment and Outdoor Mobility certificate.

Essential

• Working knowledge of a broad range of physical and cognitive conditions in adults and older people.
• Experience of carrying out Occupational Therapy assessments.

Desirable

• 1-3 years post-graduation work experience.
• Experience of carrying out cognitive standardised and non-standardised Occupational Therapy assessments.
• Contribution to education / CPD and training of colleagues