Specialist Occupational Therapist/Physiotherapist (Hands & Plastics) with certificate of sponsorship to the UK
Important Visa Information
This position offers a certificate of sponsorship for eligible international candidates. However, applicants must verify their visa eligibility directly with the employer before applying. The certificate of sponsorship will be provided to successful candidates who require it to work in the UK under the Skilled Worker visa route.
About the Position
We are looking for an enthusiastic new member to join our Hand Therapy team at this regional Hands and Plastics Unit at Queen Victoria Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. You would be joining a supportive team with plenty of learning opportunities and comprehensive support. Some previous experience in hand therapy is ideally required for this specialist role.
Company Overview
Queen Victoria Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is a specialist hospital providing life-changing reconstructive surgery, burns care and rehabilitation services across the South of England and beyond. Rated GOOD overall with outstanding care by the CQC, we are known for our excellence in clinical care and patient outcomes.
Role Details
This post involves the assessment, diagnosis and formulation of hand therapy treatment to both inpatients and outpatients, referred from Consultants & GPs, in order to maximize patient recovery and function. The Hand Therapy team consists of 10 WTE generic OT and PT staff. We are a friendly and dynamic team who will welcome a new member to our specialist unit.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary ranging from £39,959 to £48,117 per annum, depending on experience and qualifications. This is a Band 6 position under the Agenda for Change pay scheme. The hospital offers comprehensive benefits including pension scheme, NHS discounts, and opportunities for professional development.
Working Pattern
This is a permanent, part-time position based at Queen Victoria Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in East Grinstead. The hospital provides a supportive work environment with flexible working arrangements where possible. The exact working hours can be discussed during the application process.
Required Qualifications
Applicants must hold a Masters level degree in Occupational Therapy or Physiotherapy or equivalent experience. You must also have evidence of relevant postgraduate education and training and be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). These qualifications are essential for practicing in the UK.
Essential Experience
Candidates must have postgraduate clinical experience in a relevant field. Experience in delivering clinical education and supervision to staff and students is required. Additionally, you must have experience of working as part of a therapy and/or multidisciplinary team to ensure effective patient care coordination.
Desirable Qualifications
While not essential, having completed a Level 1 or 2 BAHT (British Association of Hand Therapists) Course and working towards Accredited Hand Therapist status would be advantageous for this specialized role. The hospital supports ongoing professional development in this area.
Main Duties
The role involves providing specialized hand therapy assessment and treatment to patients with a wide variety of conditions from hand replants to mallet fingers. You will develop treatment plans, implement therapeutic interventions, and evaluate patient progress. The position also includes contributing to service development projects and audit activities.
Professional Development
We offer excellent CPD activities including in-service training, teaching from doctors, library support, regular supervision sessions, and funding to attend courses and conferences. New team members receive extra 1:1 support when first starting the role to ensure a smooth transition into this specialized position.
About Our Team
The Hand Therapy team consists of 10 whole-time equivalent generic Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists. We pride ourselves on being an effective, supportive and cohesive multi-disciplinary team. As the regional Hand Unit for the South East, we have an excellent international reputation and a wide variety of caseloads.
About the Hospital
Queen Victoria Hospital is a specialist NHS hospital with expertise in conditions of the eyes (corneoplastics), hands, head and neck cancer and skin cancer, reconstructive breast surgery, maxillofacial surgery and prosthetics. We provide regional and national services in these areas of clinical expertise while also treating more common conditions for local communities.
Specialized Services
In addition to our specialist services, we provide a minor injuries unit, expert therapies, a sleep service, and a growing portfolio of community-based services. Patients consistently rate QVH amongst the top hospitals in the country for quality of care, reflecting our commitment to clinical excellence.
Application Process
To apply for this position, please visit the NHS Jobs website and search for reference number 276-7955717-AfC. Complete the online application form thoroughly, ensuring you address all points in the person specification. Applicants are advised to apply early as we reserve the right to close the advert prior to the advertised closing date.
How to Apply
Apply via NHS Jobs website. International applicants should ensure they have all necessary documentation ready, including proof of qualifications, professional registration, and any required visa information. For assistance with the application process or to discuss your specific circumstances, please contact Kirsty Doswell via email or phone.
Contact Information
For questions about the job, contact Kirsty Doswell (Clinical Specialist Physiotherapist) at kirsty.doswell@nhs.net or call 01342 414072. You can also contact Sarah Holdsworth, Therapy Services Manager at sarah.holdsworth@nhs.net for additional information about the role and team.
Location Details
The position is based at Queen Victoria Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, located at Holtye Rd, East Grinstead, RH19 3DZ. The hospital is easily accessible by public transport and offers on-site parking for staff. East Grinstead is a town in West Sussex with good transport links to London and the surrounding areas.
Equal Opportunities
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome all applications irrespective of age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, race or religion. Applicants with disabilities will be offered an interview providing they meet the minimum criteria for the post (outlined in the Person Specification). We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace.
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is 07 June 2026. We encourage early applications as we may close the advert earlier if a large number of applications are received. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interview, and all applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application.
Further Information
To find out more about our team, please review our About Us + joining our team page on the Queen Victoria Hospital website. For additional information about working for Queen Victoria Hospital NHS Trust, please visit our website at https://www.qvh.nhs.uk/ and review our publications and policies section.