Job Description
We are thrilled to offer a fantastic 12-month secondment role in our Bridgwater-based Community Mental Health Team. If you’re a dedicated professional whether a Registered Mental Health Nurse, Social Worker, or Occupational Therapist and you’re eager to contribute to the evolving landscape of mental health care in Somerset, this could be the perfect fit for you.
Perhaps you’re ready to advance your career, or maybe you’re curious about shifting from inpatient settings to community work without jumping in fully just yet. This position lets you test the waters while making a meaningful impact.
Our team provides quick, responsive support to adults facing mental health challenges. We’re a tight-knit group: experienced, encouraging, and deeply committed to our work. We thrive on collaboration in a multidisciplinary environment where everyone’s input matters.
One team member shared: Joining this community mental health group has been incredibly fulfilling. No two days are the same it’s engaging, demanding, and I truly feel like I’m helping people turn things around. Right from day one, I felt welcomed and at ease.
Beyond the daily work, we love building camaraderie through optional social events like team outings, fun bets, holiday gift exchanges, and whatever new ideas you might bring!
Key Responsibilities and Skills Needed
This is a standard weekday role, running from 9 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday no weekends or shifts involved, giving you a great work-life balance.
You’ll handle an ongoing list of clients, tracking their well-being, encouraging self-reliance, fostering community connections, supporting their journey to wellness, and helping prevent unnecessary hospital stays.
Collaboration is key: You’ll partner with the team manager, clinical experts, and other colleagues, while linking up with local community resources, hospital wards, and crisis intervention services.
A must-have: A valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle access, and business insurance for client visits (mileage reimbursable).
To set you up for success, we provide:
- Guidance and oversight from seasoned mentors and leaders to help you grow confidently in the position.
- Tailored development, including coaching and specialized courses in areas like leadership, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and beyond.
- Chances to observe and learn from partnered services, such as crisis response, intensive outreach, early intervention programs, and ADHD support for adults giving you a holistic view of patient care.
- A structured plan for career advancement with defined goals.
What Makes Us Stand Out
As part of the NHS, we deliver a host of perks: flexible schedules, generous pension plans, top-tier vacation time, ongoing career support through check-ins, plus exclusive deals like Blue Light Card savings.
Somerset itself is a gem think rolling hills, protected natural spots, and beautiful beaches. You’re close enough to vibrant cities like Bristol, Bath, or Exeter for a quick escape, and London is just a couple of hours away. The area boasts strong schools, affordable housing compared to many places, and the ideal mix of rural peace and urban energy. It’s a spot where you can truly have it all.
Detailed Role Overview
You’ll need a recognized qualification in mental health nursing, occupational therapy, or social work, along with active registration and hands-on experience in community-based mental health after qualifying. The job demands a blend of solo decision-making and solid teamwork.
In this position, you’ll:
- Offer top-notch care to those with intricate needs, aiding their path to stability and autonomy.
- Form strong, goal-oriented bonds with clients to highlight their abilities and boost their coping skills.
- Contribute expertise to evaluations, personalized recovery strategies, emergency handling, and protection measures.
- Share detailed, delicate information effectively in team discussions and safety reviews.
- Drive fresh approaches to care, participate in reviews, and help improve service quality.
- Guide and support newer staff, trainees, and assistants.
- Step in for the team lead as needed to keep operations running smoothly.
- Embody our core principles of empathy, dignity, and cooperation, while adhering to professional excellence.
It’s a dynamic, gratifying job where you’ll positively influence adults navigating mental health issues, all within a welcoming, team-focused setting.
What We’re Seeking in You
Education and Credentials
Required:
- Qualification as an RMN, Social Worker, or OT.
- Active membership with the appropriate regulatory body.
- Proof of continued learning in a high-pressure environment post-qualification.
Background and Expertise
Required:
- Substantial experience in diverse community mental health teams after registration.
- Proven ability to handle risks during client emergencies.
- Skills in creating, implementing, and reviewing care plans with input from clients and families.
- Solid understanding of supporting individuals with mental health concerns.
Preferred:
- Personal or professional insight into mental health challenges.
Other Essentials
- Strong written and spoken English proficiency.
- Outstanding people skills, including discussing cases in group settings.
- Top-notch time management and ability to coordinate tasks for yourself and others.
- Own vehicle with business coverage for travel duties.
- Willingness to cover the service area as needed.
Additional Notes
This role requires a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1975 (Exceptions) Order, to review any past convictions.
We welcome applications from those needing Skilled Worker sponsorship; they’ll be evaluated equally. Visit the UK Visas and Immigration site for details. From April 6, 2017, entry clearance applicants must provide criminal record checks from countries where they’ve lived 12+ months in the last decade. This applies to adult dependents too. See guidance on overseas criminal record checks.
Candidates must hold current UK professional registration check the NHS Careers site for more info.
For application support, reach out to: Sam Francis samantha.francis@somersetft.nhs.uk