Rehabilitation Assistant Review

As a Rehabilitation Assistant, I work alongside other therapists such as Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapists, Assistant Practitioner and Mental Health Practitioner in the community. The therapists would assess the situation and determine what's needed for patients. RA support therapists by following HEP, delivering and checking equipment. As part of a team, we can feedback therapist if the condition of a patient has changed as they might need to re-assess.

Absolutely. The main skills I have developed is people's skills: being able to understand what people are going through and demonstrate kindness and support. I am still learning clinical skills which are linked to what I am learning at University. There is a plan put in place for me at work which allows me to put techniques into practice and I have the space to ask questions to my colleagues.

I truly enjoy the programme, however, sometimes it is quite daunting as it is intense. I work 7.5 hr, four days a week and I attend University once a week. When there is an exam coming, it is overwhelming as I need to use my personal time to do revision. There are other responsibilities which I need to prioritise as well: my family.

I am not sure the structure of the programme is well organised: the academic point of view is well organised; however, there is not much link between this and how I can progress at work. As an RA I have specific responsibilities which will not match with my knowledge and capabilities. E.g. assessment is not part of the RA reponsibilities so once I have finished this module at uni, I'd need to talk to my supervisor to understand how to implement it.

I receive very good support from my employer. I have regular meetings with my manager and supervisor in where we talk about my progress and my struggles in order to put something in place for me. I have been offered to be part of different projects such as helping with exercises for a research, being in the panel for new physiotherapy apprentices interview.

Coventry University have been very accommodating with me. I have disclosed a medical condition which could interfere my performance however, they have offered a variety of options when the time comes. Lectures are very understanding of personal situations as well. The material provided for the modules are relevant to the subject and they are available in different formats.

My qualification will help me to perform better because I will have the needed knowledge to do assessment, create a treatment plan, set goals and do a follow up. Nevertheless, my current experience and skills will develop and I would be able to take on more responsibilities and have my own caseload.

Yes, there are. There is a Peer Support and CPD sessions for apprentices, a journal club session. Team wise, we all have lunch together once a month. Although there are some extra-curricular activities, there is a time matter as it is difficult to have the time to participate on them.

Yes

Because the support provided is invaluable. There is a real sense of a team when you are able to talk to all of them and feel that you are at the same level and you are listened to. Managers are very approachable as well. They will always make some time for a chat when needed.

My advise is to understand the culture of the Trust and the values and link them to personal experiences or examples as it is important to demonstrate what would be expected of you when joining the Trust. Another advise is to gain some experience in clinical settings as it can be upsetting at times: people could have an idea of what they want to do once they qualify, however, there will be rotational.