Job Description
About the Role
This is an exciting opportunity for a Consultant Psychiatrist to provide clinical leadership across two closely linked services:
Willow Ward (inpatient rehabilitation unit)
Open Mental Health Rehabilitation Team (community-based service in development)
The post sits within a forward-thinking mental health service that is expanding in partnership with voluntary, community, and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations.
You will play a key role in shaping service development, improving patient pathways, and strengthening integrated care across inpatient and community settings.
Flexible working patterns, including a four-day working week model and partial remote working, may be considered.
Clinical Environment
Willow Ward
A specialist 11-bed rehabilitation unit supporting adults with complex and enduring mental health needs. Patients may present with:
- Severe mental illness
Neurodevelopmental conditions (e.g. autism, ADHD)
Cognitive impairment
Substance misuse
Physical comorbidities (e.g. diabetes, cardiovascular disease)
Care is delivered under the Mental Health Act 1983 or on a voluntary basis.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide consultant leadership across inpatient and community rehabilitation services.
Act as Responsible Clinician and Approved Clinician where required.
Deliver clinical oversight for complex patient care pathways.
Support development of integrated rehabilitation services across the county.
Ensure safe, coordinated, and well-communicated patient care across teams.
Lead on risk management, clinical governance, and service improvement.
Contribute to strategic planning and service development.
Participate in on-call duties (1 in 11 rota), providing senior medical cover.
Support multidisciplinary collaboration and team development.
About the Organisation
Somerset NHS Foundation Trust provides integrated mental health, acute, and community services across the region.
The Trust works in partnership with VCSE organisations and other NHS providers to deliver patient-centred care. It is committed to innovation, workforce wellbeing, and improving access to mental health services.
Person Specification
Essential Requirements
- Medical degree with full registration with the General Medical Council
Membership of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (or equivalent)
Inclusion on the Specialist Register (CCT in Psychiatry)
Section 12(2) approval under the Mental Health Act
Experience Required
- Extensive clinical experience in psychiatry
Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams
Experience managing complex mental health cases
Strong analytical and decision-making skills
Capability to work independently and provide senior clinical leadership
Additional Requirements
Enhanced DBS clearance via the Disclosure and Barring Service
Compliance with UK professional registration standards
For official guidance, see:
Benefits
- Flexible working arrangements (including 4-day week consideration)
NHS pension scheme
Generous annual leave entitlement
Blue Light Card discounts
Relocation support (subject to eligibility)
Career development and CPD opportunities
Dedicated administrative and secretarial support
Why Join This Service?
This role offers a unique opportunity to shape evolving rehabilitation services within a modern, integrated NHS mental health system. You will influence service design, support workforce development, and directly improve outcomes for patients with complex needs.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Somerset NHS Foundation Trust is committed to creating an inclusive workforce that reflects the communities it serves. Applications are encouraged from all backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented in senior clinical roles.
