Job overview

1 WTE x Band 4 Children’s Therapy Assistant Practitioner (TAP) for OT/PT /Moving and Handling Support Assistant

We are looking for a dynamic, enthusiastic and creative TAP to be a part of our well-established Occupational Therapy (OT) and Physiotherapy (PT) team based at Peace Children's Centre in Watford.  This exciting role involves supporting OTs and PTs in the service and the delivery of clinics, workshops, moving and handling training, and therapeutic interventions. The postholder will also assist in reviewing moving and handling practices, ensuring the safe and effective support of children and young people (CYP).

You will be joining an innovative and forward-thinking CYP Therapy (CYPT) service that is dedicated to providing high-quality interventions to transform lives. Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust provides integrated Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy, and Physiotherapy Services for families across the county.  Our CYPT service provides opportunities for collaborative working, joint training and shared learning amongst each profession. 

Our service is commissioned by health, social care and education, allowing us to provide a seamless pathway from early years through to home, school and further education settings, to enable a child to meet their full potential in participating in activities of daily living.

*Previous applicants from the last 6 months need not apply

Main duties of the job

Children’s Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy is based on a 3 Tier model of service delivery, with provision at Universal, Targeted and Specialist tiers.  We offer assessment and treatment to children and young people (CYP) with a wide variety of conditions, including cerebral palsy, autistic spectrum disorder and developmental coordination disorder. We also carry out home assessments and advise on equipment, housing adaptations and rehousing. The team works closely with colleagues in the wider multiagency team supporting children, young people and their families to achieve their maximum potential. 

The postholder will be responsible for demonstrating and teaching therapy and moving and handling techniques to parents/carers, school staff, undergraduates and other professionals. An exciting development opportunity that is part of this role is that the postholder will support the service's moving and handling specialist to deliver manual handling advice and training to mainstream settings for CYP with physical disabilities.  They will receive full training to undertake this support role and would be expected to attend a paid 4-day course away from home.

Continuing Professional Development is actively supported through access to training, regular supervision, peer support meetings and staff appraisal scheme.

We can offer:

• Regular supervision, managerial supervision and a well-established appraisal system
• CPD opportunities, including in-service masterclasses
• Opportunities to work alongside other therapists/assistants to deliver intervention to children/young people requiring support
• An initial induction period where you will have the opportunity to observe and shadow your team.

Working for our organisation

We’re delighted that you're exploring a career with HCT.   As an organisation, we’re committed to creating an inclusive, supportive, and rewarding work environment — one where you’ll feel valued and empowered to make a real difference.

At HCT, we put patients, their families, and carers at the heart of everything we do. Our vision is simple yet powerful: Outstanding Services and Healthier Communities. Our dedicated staff take pride in being Innovative, Caring, and Agile, working together to turn this vision into reality.

Working with us comes with a host of benefits designed to support your wellbeing and work-life balance:

• Generous annual leave (27 days rising to 33 with long service)
• Flexible working arrangements to help balance personal and professional life, including up to 5 days of carers leave (pro rata)
• Employee Assistance Programme offering 24/7 confidential support for personal or work-related issues
• Cycle to Work and Car Lease Schemes
• Blue Light Card and NHS Discounts
• Health and wellbeing support, including free flu jabs, Physiotherapy referrals, eye care vouchers
• Occupational Pension Scheme
• Enhanced sick pay above statutory entitlements

We celebrate diversity and actively encourage applicants from all backgrounds, ages, and communities to apply.

You’ve taken a fantastic first step by considering HCT. We’re excited about the possibility of welcoming you to our team and taking the next step in your journey with us.