Highly Specialist Chronic Pain Occupational Therapist

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a motivated and experienced Band 7 Occupational Therapist to join the Chronic Pain and Rheumatology Team at Royal Manchester Children's Hospital.

This role supports children and young people with persistent pain and rheumatological conditions to improve their daily function, participation in education and quality of life. The postholder will manage a complex clinical caseload, including children and young people with chronic musculoskeletal pain, pain amplification syndromes, activity avoidance, co-existing conditions and complex family circumstances.

Working as a core member of the MDT with psychologists, physiotherapists and consultants, contributing to the delivery of a high-quality, evidence-informed service that meets relevant national standards. The role is primarily outpatient based, with inpatient input as required. The team also deliver intensive rehabilitation programmes whereappropriate., Manage a highly specialist caseload of children and young people with chronic pain, pain amplification syndromes and rheumatological conditions.

Undertake specialist occupational therapy assessment, treatment planning, intervention and outcome evaluation to maximise function, participation, school attendance and quality of life.
Deliver a range of evidence-based interventions, including individual and group. programmes, functional rehabilitation and pain management approaches. Work collaboratively with children, families and the multidisciplinary team to develop and achieve person-centred goals. Provide professional support, supervision and leadership to colleagues, contributing to service delivery and workforce development. Lead or support training and education initiatives for staff, students and rotational therapists. Contribute to service evaluation, quality improvement and the ongoing development of the Rheumatology and Chronic Pain Service. Demonstrate effective clinical leadership, advanced clinical reasoning and multidisciplinary working at Band 7 level. Apply specialist knowledge and skills to support children and young people with complex presentations, including neurodiversity, mental health needs and challenging psychosocial circumstances.

We welcome expressions of interest from Occupational Therapists currently working in a specialist chronic pain or rheumatology role, as well as experienced Occupational Therapists from adult pain services who can demonstrate transferable skills relevant to paediatric practice. Applicants should demonstrate leadership capability appropriate to Band 7 and, ideally, have completed postgraduate study or continuing professional development relevant to the speciality.

Join Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT) and become part of a 30,000 plus strong team, delivering exceptional care to over 1 million people every year. As the largest provider of specialist services, and our Oxford Road Campus in Manchester, the largest health academic campus in Europe, we are forward-thinking, committed to clinical excellence and driven to deliver innovation, and continuous improvement.

Whether you're beginning your career or taking the next step, MFT offers a stimulating and supportive environment where your contribution truly matters. Our Hive Electronic Patient Record system enables safer, smarter, and more efficient ways of working - empowering you to deliver the best possible outcomes for our patients.You'll be part of a collaborative, multi-disciplinary community, working alongside professionals from a wide range of clinical backgrounds. Together, we push boundaries, share knowledge, and deliver care that transforms lives.

At MFT, you'll find a workplace where everyone is respected, supported, and encouraged to thrive. We offer clear clinical pathways for professional development, helping you grow your skills and achieve your ambitions.Your journey at MFT is more than a job - it's an opportunity to make a lasting impact. We'll support you as you shape the future of healthcare, one patient at a time.