Assistant Psychologist(UK Visa Sponsorship)
Job Description
Role Overview
An exciting opportunity has become available for three Assistant Psychologists to join the Adult Community Planned Care service in South Durham.
Working under the supervision of a qualified Clinical Psychologist, the successful candidates will contribute to delivering psychologically informed care for adults living in the community. The role involves collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to support individuals experiencing mental health challenges and to provide evidence-based interventions in a community setting.
This position offers valuable experience for psychology graduates looking to develop clinical and research skills while working in a supportive and progressive NHS environment.
Key Responsibilities
In this role, you will support the delivery of psychological services through a combination of direct clinical work and indirect support activities. Responsibilities include:
- Assisting with psychological assessments and formulation under supervision
- Supporting the development and implementation of behaviour support plans
- Delivering non-pharmacological interventions and structured therapeutic groups
- Participating in multidisciplinary meetings to discuss patient care plans
- Contributing to the evaluation of treatment outcomes and service improvement
- Assisting with data collection, research activities, and clinical audits
- Maintaining accurate clinical records and ensuring confidentiality of patient information
Professional Development and Support
The service places strong emphasis on career progression and staff development. As an Assistant Psychologist, you will benefit from:
- Regular clinical supervision from experienced psychologists
- Access to training and professional development opportunities
- Annual appraisals and structured career guidance
- Opportunities to contribute to service development across the locality
The team environment encourages collaboration, compassionate leadership, and continuous improvement in mental health care delivery.
About the Organisation
Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust is a leading provider of mental health and learning disability services across the North of England. The Trust focuses on providing high-quality, patient-centred care while supporting staff with inclusive workplace policies and professional growth opportunities.
Teams within the Trust are known for their collaborative, compassionate, and inclusive approach, ensuring patients receive effective and respectful mental health support.
Required Qualifications
Essential
- Bachelor’s degree in Psychology
- Eligibility for Graduate Membership of the British Psychological Society (BPS)
- Understanding of psychological approaches used in healthcare settings
- Awareness of confidentiality and ethical standards in health services
Desirable
- Postgraduate training in psychology, research methods, or mental health practice
Experience and Knowledge
Essential
- Experience working with individuals using mental health, psychological, or social care services
- Understanding of the needs of individuals experiencing mental health difficulties
- Ability to manage sensitive and confidential information appropriately
- Awareness of cultural diversity and inclusive practice
Desirable
- Experience supporting vulnerable groups or individuals whose first language is not English
- Research or data analysis experience in a mental health or psychology context
Key Skills
Successful candidates should demonstrate:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Compassion and empathy when working with vulnerable individuals
- Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a team
- Strong organisational and time-management skills
- Analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities
- Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusive practice
Background Checks and Safeguarding
This role is subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check in accordance with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions Order 1975).
Applicants may also need to provide overseas criminal record certificates depending on previous residency history.
Visa and Immigration Information
Applicants must already have the right to work in the United Kingdom. In some cases, visa sponsorship may be available depending on immigration status and eligibility under UK immigration regulations.
Useful government guidance for international applicants:
- Skilled Worker visa overview – eligibility and requirements
- Immigration Rules Appendix Skilled Occupations guidance
- Check if a job is eligible for the Skilled Worker visa
- Criminal record checks for overseas applicants
- Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks explained
 Application Advice
- Applicants should clearly demonstrate in their application:
- Eligibility for BPS graduate membership
- Relevant experience in mental health or social care environments
- Understanding of psychological approaches in healthcare
- Commitment to patient-centred care and teamwork
