To work as an Occupational Therapist in the UK, you must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council. This applies whether you trained in the UK or overseas.

For UK-trained therapists, registration is fairly straightforward. For internationally-trained therapists, the HCPC has a specific process, and it can take time so it's best to plan ahead.

Learn more about obtaining a HCPC registration here.

If you're unsure what you need, the Your World team is always ready to help.

Agency work gives you choice, as you can choose from short-term or long-term contracts in full-time or part-time capacities.

Roles are available in the NHS, private healthcare, local councils, community teams, and more. Some jobs focus on mental health, whereas others involve rehab, paediatrics, or physical health.

To start, you should ask yourself the following questions:

• What hours am I looking for?
• How far would I like to travel?
• What type of patients do I prefer to work with?
• Do I prefer a hospital setting, a community role, or locum work in clinics?

The clearer you are on your preferences, the easier it is for your specialist recruiter to find the right job for you.

At Your World Healthcare, we find locum roles for registered healthcare workers in the UK. Finding the right role is much easier when you’re working with people who understand the specialism. We work closely with many NHS trusts and private healthcare providers. This helps us find you the right jobs tailored to your needs as quickly as possible.

When you register with us, a consultant from our Occupational Therapy team will focus specifically on roles for you. They’ll speak with you about your experience, your preferences, and what you’re looking for in your next role. From there, they’ll search for suitable opportunities, help you with your application, and guide you through the process.

Find the right role for you by registering with Your World Healthcare here.

Agency roles can move fast, but you can only begin working once your compliance is in order. Compliance is a non-negotiable when working through a multi-framework agency such as Your World Healthcare. You’ll need to ensure you have several key documents. This includes:

• Your HCPC registration
• Proof of your right to work in the UK (e.g. passport, visa)
• A recent DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) on the Update Service
• Minimum of 2 references from recent placements or employers
• Up-to-date mandatory training certificates (e.g. manual handling, infection control, safeguarding)

Our dedicated compliance team who will help you get all this in place. When you register, you will meet your compliance officer, who will assist you and inform you of what you need. They also help with renewals or updates when the time comes. Your World supports you with your compliance throughout your entire journey.

Being flexible with agency work can help you get into work quickly. Being open to different places, settings, or short-term contracts can give you more choices. If you’re new to agency work, this is also a good way to build experience and figure out what you enjoy most.

Many Occupational Therapists begin with a locum contract in one area. They often find their niche through hands-on experience. If a role isn’t the right fit for you, your consultant will work with you to find something else.

Finding an agency Occupational Therapy role in the UK can be easy. The process is straightforward if you’re organised and working with the right people. The OT team at Your World Healthcare supports you through every step of the process.

Once you start a job, your dedicated consultant will always check in and ensure you receive full support. If your contract is ending soon, they will ensure they have options for you to choose from for your next role. You also have access to payroll support, ongoing training, and guidance for any issues.

Our OT consultants are experts in your field and can help you find a role that suits your skills and lifestyle. For those seeking flexibility, new experiences, or a change, we can help.

If you're ready to look for your next career move, view our available opportunities here!

We’ve assembled our Occupational Therapy Resource hub with downloadable documents to make your OT career smoother. It includes:

• Getting Started at Your World Healthcare
• Shifts & Availability
• Timesheets & Pay
• On Assignment at Your World
• Ending a Booking
• Useful Contact Information

Getting Started

• Where do I start?

Firstly, book a call with one of our dedicated recruitment consultants. 

They will discuss your previous experience and expectations of hours and pay rate.

After this initial call, the consultant will begin looking for roles to suit you. 

While they are looking for roles for you, you can begin gathering your compliance. 

• How long does it take to get compliant?

Once you’ve submitted all your documents, we aim to get you fully compliant and ready to start within 1–2 weeks. This can vary depending on how quickly we receive references and training certificates.

• What documents do I need?

- HCPC registration - Proof of Right to Work (passport, visa, BRP) - Updated CV - Two professional references - DBS certificate - Mandatory training certificates  Your compliance officer will send you a full checklist.

• Can I work while I wait for my DBS or HCPC?

No. You must have both in place before starting a role. As we are a framework agency, you must be fully compliant before you begin any job role with us. 

Shifts and Availability 

• Do I have to take every job offered?

No. We’ll only put you forward for roles that fit your preferences. You’re in control of where and when you work.

• Can I work part-time or just a few days a week?

Yes. Many locum roles are flexible. Let your consultant know your availability, and they’ll match you with suitable positions.

• Can I work weekends or evenings?

Some services offer extended hours, but most OT roles are Monday to Friday, 9–5. If you're looking for out-of-hours work, let us know and we’ll look for those roles.

Timesheets and Pay

• When do I get paid?

You’ll be paid weekly, either by your client or directly through Your World. This will be confirmed depending on your booking.

• If I am being paid directly by Your World, how do I submit my timesheet?

Complete your timesheet and have it signed by your line manager. Then, email it to your consultant.

• Who do I speak to about missing pay?

If there’s an issue with your payment, contact your recruitment consultant directly. 

On Assignment

• What happens if I’m sick or can’t attend work?

Let both your placement and your consultant know as early as possible. We’ll inform the client and help manage your return.

• What if I have a problem while on placement?

Speak to your consultant. We’re here to help with any issues - whether it's something with the role, the setting, or the team.

• Can I take time off between contracts?

Yes. One of the benefits of locum work is flexibility. Just let us know in advance if you're planning time off so we can make arrangements.

Ending a Booking

• How much notice do I need to give?

Most bookings require two weeks’ notice, but check your individual terms. Always let your consultant know as early as possible.

• How long are bookings?

Most bookings are ongoing and rolling, but if you’re interested in shortening it, let us know and we’ll speak with the client.

Need Help?

• Consultant email address: [email protected] 
• General Occupational Therapy: [email protected] 
• Compliance support: [email protected]
• Candidate Services support: [email protected] 
• Office hours: Monday–Friday, 9am–6pm