Community Forensic Mental Health Professional(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

Overview

This role offers an opportunity to work within a growing and forward-thinking forensic community service. The Specialist Community Forensic Team (SCFT) supports individuals with complex mental health needs as they transition from secure hospital settings back into the community.

The focus is on enabling safe discharge, reducing unnecessary admissions, and helping people rebuild their lives with the right level of structured support. You’ll be part of a multidisciplinary team delivering care that balances recovery with effective risk management.

The position is based in Bridgwater, with travel required across Somerset and the wider South West region.

What You’ll Be Doing

In this role, you’ll take on a small but highly complex caseload, working closely with individuals both in secure settings and after their return to the community.

Your responsibilities will include:

  • Supporting patients through their journey from inpatient care to independent living
    Carrying out detailed mental health and risk assessments
    Developing and reviewing care plans that reflect both recovery goals and safety needs
    Collaborating with families, carers, and professionals to coordinate effective support
    Working alongside agencies such as probation services, social care, housing providers, and the Ministry of Justice
    Contributing to decisions around hospital admissions and discharge planning
    Maintaining accurate and professional clinical records
    Participating in meetings such as tribunals, case reviews, and risk panels

This role requires confidence in managing complex situations and the ability to engage individuals who may find services difficult to trust.

About the Organisation

Somerset NHS Foundation Trust provides a supportive working environment with a strong emphasis on staff wellbeing and development. The organisation promotes flexible working, career progression, and inclusive values.

Employees benefit from:

  • NHS pension scheme
    Generous annual leave
    Flexible working arrangements
    Access to discounts through the Blue Light Card
    Ongoing training and professional development opportunities

Somerset itself offers a balance between rural living and access to major cities like Bristol and Exeter, making it an attractive place to live and work.

Role Expectations

You will:

  • Work as part of a multidisciplinary forensic team
    Manage up to 15 complex cases due to the intensive nature of the work
    Support individuals under the Mental Health Act, including restricted sections
    Deliver recovery-focused interventions that also address risk, substance misuse, and social inclusion
    Build therapeutic relationships while maintaining professional boundaries
    Contribute to service improvement, audit, and supervision of junior staff

Travel across the region is essential, so a driving licence and access to a vehicle are required.

What You’ll Need

Essential Qualifications:

  • Registered Mental Health Nurse (RMN), or
    Degree/Diploma in Occupational Therapy, Social Work, or a related profession

Experience Required:

  • Strong background in mental health services
    Experience in both inpatient and community settings
    Experience working within multidisciplinary teams

Knowledge & Skills:

  • Understanding of the Mental Health Act and Mental Capacity Act
    Ability to manage complex cases and risk effectively
    Strong communication and collaboration skills

Desirable:

  • Experience in forensic mental health
    Caseload management experience
    Supervision or mentorship experience
    Important Information

This role requires:

For more information related to this role and requirements, you may find the following official resources helpful: