OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST

PURPOSE OF JOB

SBHI is seeking a compassionate, motivated, and experienced Occupational Therapist to join our multidisciplinary team. This is a new and essential role within SBHI, providing high-quality occupational therapy services to individuals with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus. You will work closely with members, families, carers, and health professionals to support independence, participation, and well-being across all life stages, while contributing to the development and delivery of SBHI’s occupational therapy service nationwide.

 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct comprehensive occupational therapy assessments for SBHI members across the lifespan (children, adolescents, adults)

• Develop and implement individualised treatment plans focused on functional ability, independence in daily living, mobility, equipment needs, and environmental adaptations

• Provide advice on assistive technology, orthotics, and home/school/workplace adaptations

• Manage own caseload effectively while prioritising tasks and coordinating with other SBHI services

• Liaise and collaborate with SBHI’s Health Promotion and Development Officer, Family Liaison Officers, HSE professionals, schools, hospitals, and other agencies to ensure integrated care and support

• Deliver in-person and remote sessions, including home visits, clinic-based services, and community support

• Participate in family support meetings, training workshops, and community outreach events

• Maintain accurate, up-to-date, and confidential records in line with data protection policies

• Monitor and report on outcomes and progress for continuous service improvement

• Contribute to the planning, development, and evaluation of SBHI’s occupational therapy service

• Promote best practice, quality initiatives, and evidence-based interventions

• Engage in advocacy and awareness initiatives related to independence, accessibility, and disability rights

WORKING CONDITIONS

• The role requires travel across multiple regions to support SBHI members

• Flexible hours may be necessary, including occasional evenings and weekends.

• Engagements will occur in varied settings including homes, clinics, hospitals, and SBHI events.

SKILLS, EXPERIENCE, AND PERSONAL QUALITIES

Essential

• Relevant third-level qualification in Occupational Therapy (CORU registered)

• Minimum 2 years post-qualification experience, ideally in neurodisability, paediatrics, or community settings

• Knowledge of spina bifida, hydrocephalus, or similar complex conditions

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a person-centred approach

• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team

• Full clean driving licence and access to own vehicle (essential for home/community visits)

• Excellent organisational and IT skills

• Commitment to the empowerment of SBHI’s members, families, and service users

• Excellent time management and strategic thinking skills

Desired

• Experience working with disability services or in a charity/nonprofit setting

• Familiarity with assistive technology, orthotics, and environmental adaptations to assist in maximising the potential independence of our members

• Experience in delivering training or education sessions for families or professionals

• Experience in service planning, audits, or outcome measurement