We are looking for a Bus Pass Applications OT Assessor that will will report to the Public Transport Officer and work as part of a wider ENCTS travel team undertaking assessments of ENCTS pass holders and applicants to assess whether or not they meet the criteria for a disabled persons bus pass and/or companion pass enhancement. Blended working is applicable to this post.
MAIN DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:
- To understand and apply the DfT guidance on assessing the eligibility of disabled people in England for concessionary bus travel as part of the ENCTS scheme and to completing functional assessments of ENCTS pass applicants under the categories specified in the guidance. The postholder will also carry out assessments on whether the applicant meets discretionary elements of the scheme (companion pass holders).
- Working alongside the Public Transport Officer and Technical Support Manager you will play a role in carrying out and devising a robust assessment process that will inform DBC as to whether or not an applicant satisfies the statutory requirements for an ENCTS bus pass.
- To manage a caseload of ENCTS clients that need to be assessed in a timely manner.
- Working as part of the wider ENCTS travel team you will liaise with colleagues when making judgements in borderline or difficult cases.
- Make recommendations on a case by case basis as to whether an ENCTS bus pass should be issued.
- To work within the ENCTS travel team to assist in applying the appeals process when required.
- To ensure that records and user information are maintained, using new technology in accordance with the agreed data entry system whenever appropriate, to produce reports for management staff when requested and to contribute to other departmental administrative requirements as necessary.
- To take a pro-active approach to supervision and personal development.
- To actively participate in CPD for both self-development and the development of other team members.
- Ensure that you work in line with all the Council's policies and procedures and ensure that you are aware of your obligations under these.
- Behave according to the Employees' Code of Conduct and ensure that you are aware of your obligations and responsibilities re: conflicts of interest, gifts, hospitality and other matters covered by the Code.
- Carry out your role in line with the Council's Equality agenda.
- To comply with health and safety policies, organisational statements and procedures, report any incidents / accidents/ hazards and take a pro-active approach to health and safety matters in order to protect yourself and others.
- Any other duties of a similar nature related to this post that may be required from time-to-time.
- Darlington Borough Council and schools within the Borough are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
- This post is deemed to be a 'Customer Facing' role in line with the definition of the Code of Practice on the English language requirement for public sector workers.
This post is subject to an enhanced disclosure. The successful applicant will be subject to the relevant vetting checks before an offer of appointment is confirmed. Following appointment the employee will be subject to rechecking as required from time to time by the Council
The candidates must have:
Professional Diploma or Degree in Occupational Therapy.
To be a State Registered Occupational Therapist via the Health and Care Professions Council.
Management qualification or post-graduate training relevant to particular specialism.
Experience & Knowledge
Knowledge and experience of the organisation and structure within the NHS and Adult Social Care, recent or impending changes.
At least one year's post qualification experience in either Health or Social Care setting, with knowledge and experience of fitting a range of disability equipment.
Knowledge and experience of working with the specific client group serviced by the team.
Experience of working in a multi-disciplinary or multi-agency environment.
Skills
Ability to form relationships with applicants.
Ability to carry out assessments.
Ability to be able to plan, monitor and review work.
Ability to communicate both orally and in writing to a wide range of audiences (including ability to write clear and concise reports)
Ability to carry out specific therapeutic skills.
Ability to organise and priorities own work priorities with minimum supervision.
Ability to be able to work in a flexible manner.
Personal Attributes
Confident and positive approach.
Special Requirements
Capable of independent travel to carry out the requirements of the post.
The ability to communicate at ease with customers and provide advice in accurate spoken English.
Flexible up to full time role. Hybrid working available to fit the role although assessments will need to be carried out at the Town Hall, Darlington