In the Spotlight: Claire Wright

“Career development is a strong focus here, with opportunities to grow and learn diverse skills.”

Hi Claire! Tell us about your role…

I am an Advanced Practitioner Occupational Therapist working in Adult Social Care. I have been with the council for three and a half years, starting as a Range 6 Occupational Therapist before applying for my current role.

As a Community Occupational Therapist, I travel around the county to see our residents in their homes, supporting them to maintain their independence. Additionally, I provide clinical supervision to junior staff and take on various other responsibilities.

In my role, I handle tasks such as ordering equipment and authorising recommendations made by other occupational therapists. I’m also involved in various management duties like C4P and providing clinical supervision.

Today, for example, I’ll visit a resident in High Wycombe with a company to assess a piece of equipment that will help her maintain her dignity and independence. Additionally, I supervise newly qualified OTs and students on placement, shaping professionalism in our field, which I love.

Could you share the career journey that brought you to this position?

I actually worked in investment banking before I transitioned to this career. Before having my children, I worked for JP Morgan, frequently flying to the States and working long hours. While it was an absolute blast, it wasn’t conducive to family life.

When I had kids, I realised I needed something more flexible. With the support of my wonderful husband, I decided to retrain as an occupational therapist (OT). I started in acute physical health, working in a hospital while completing my master’s degree. During the COVID pandemic, I worked full-time, which led to burnout. My children, old enough to understand the situation, were very worried, especially after we lost a colleague to COVID.

A colleague from university who works for the council suggested I join them, saying I’d be a great fit. I interviewed, got the job, and started as a Range 6 OT. Nearly four years later, I still absolutely adore what I do, and my team!

Tell us about your work pattern…

The flexibility to manage my own diary is fantastic. I enjoy a flexible work schedule, working part-time from Monday to Wednesday, 9:00 am to 5:30 pm, which is fantastic as it allows me to engage in other activities. For instance, I lecture at the University of Northampton and am a PhD candidate. This flexible working arrangement is one of the best aspects of my job, as it supports my continued professional development and personal growth without incurring additional costs for the council.

Recently, I reduced my workweek to three days to better manage my doctoral studies. Before that, I worked four days a week but struggled with my studies. My request to work fewer hours was approved, allowing me to continue my professional and personal development.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I am professionally fulfilled and have many opportunities to support my colleagues. As an Advanced Practitioner (AP), I handle the most complex cases and now focus on giving back, ensuring that junior colleagues have as great, or even better, experiences than I did.

So, I’m not going anywhere — I’ll be with the council for many years to come. The most fulfilling aspects of my job are supporting our residents and providing guidance to my supervisors and junior staff members.

What training and development opportunities are available to you?

Beyond the statutory requirements, I’m involved in coaching and training. While there isn’t an abundance of formal training available, OTs are very autonomous practitioners, often seeking out their own opportunities. For instance, I recently applied to be a mentor for the Elizabeth Casson Trust and completed training to support OTs outside the council. This proactive approach is common among us.

Although the amount of training might seem limited compared to the NHS, I believe the offerings are good. It’s about identifying your own learning needs and seeking out opportunities. If you find relevant training or wish to invite experts for demonstrations, management will support you. As registered practitioners, we shouldn’t expect to be spoon-fed; autonomy in our professional development is key.

What would you say to someone who is considering applying?

Our team is amazing — literally the best! Our management is genuinely supportive, with an open-door policy. You can always approach management. Our senior team, including APs, is dedicated to supporting our staff and takes pride in seeing the development of newly qualified OTs progressing through the ranks.

Career development is a strong focus here. You can manage your own diary and learn diverse skills. One day, I might be assessing a toilet lift; the next, assisting someone with motor neuron disease with complex handling needs. The variety in community OT is immense, ensuring the job is never boring.

Our Adult Social Care team is currently hiring. Check our current vacancies here: https://tinyurl.com/4rb65nkv