Therapy Assistant

Therapy Assistant

The closing date is 02 February 2026

To provide support to Therapists across a range of community settings, delivering high quality physiotherapy and occupational therapy interventions for patients in the East Locality of County Durham. The role is based mainly at Spectrum 8, Seaham, but may require travel across sites.

Assist in the delivery of core clinical programmes, participate in service improvement initiatives, and work within a multi‑disciplinary team that includes nursing, social work, therapy and support staff.

• Provide therapy care to patients, families and carers following assessment of health and care needs.
• Perform basic clinical activities such as venepuncture, simple wound dressings, blood glucose monitoring, and the fitting and adjustment of a range of home‑care equipment.
• Support patient independence, enable choice, and provide personal hygiene, grooming and dietary assistance as required.
• Maintain accurate clinical records and report any changes in patient condition to the registered therapist.
• Support safe and appropriate use of equipment, maintaining it in a clean and safe condition.
• Communicate effectively with clients who may have speech, hearing, learning difficulties or mental health conditions.
• Carry out home visits independently and teach patients and carers how to use equipment safely.
• Participate in health promotion, clinical quality processes and team teaching packages.

County Durham & Darlington NHS Foundation Trust provides hospital services from Darlington Memorial Hospital and University Hospital of North Durham, and community services across a wide area including Bishop Auckland, Chester‑le‑Street and Weardale.

We particularly welcome applications from disabled and BAME candidates as these groups are under‑represented in health‑care.

• Understanding of legal responsibilities within the profession.
• Clear written and oral communication skills.
• Organisation and prioritisation abilities.
• High concentration levels and capacity for moderate to intense physical effort.
• Initiative to enhance service delivery.
• Experience working across professional boundaries.
• Knowledge of system One for documentation.

• Recent experience in physical rehabilitation, including community rehabilitation.
• Evidence of communication skills across varied settings.
• Experience with transferable assessment and treatment skills between physiotherapy and occupational therapy.
• NHS experience preferred.

• Ability to travel and carry small equipment daily.
• UK driving licence and access to a car.
• Suitable visa/immigration status.

• Maths and English GCSE/equivalent.
• NVQ 3 or equivalent knowledge/experience.
• CPD diary with evidence of reflective practice, training and clinical experience.
• Recognised relevant academic qualification.
• Understanding of County Durham & Darlington NHS FT culture and strategy.

The post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and requires a Disclosure and Barring Service check.

County Durham & Darlington NHS Foundation Trust