Job Description
About the Role
We are looking for a compassionate and motivated Band 3 Healthcare Assistant to join Beech Ward, a 16-bed inpatient mental health ward supporting older adults with functional mental health needs at Torbay Hospital.
Beech Ward is known for its strong team culture, person-centred care, and commitment to dignity, recovery, and respect. Rated Outstanding by the CQC, this is a rare opportunity to become part of a service where staff genuinely support one another and where the work you do makes a visible difference every day.
You will work closely with nurses and the wider Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT), spending meaningful time with service users and supporting them through their recovery journey in a safe, therapeutic environment.
- “Team support is outstanding.” – Ruth, Staff Nurse
- “We are a caring and compassionate team.” – Hannah, Discharge Facilitator
- “Staff go beyond the call of duty.” – Service User
What You’ll Be Doing
As a Band 3 Healthcare Assistant, you will play a vital role in day-to-day patient care and ward life. Your responsibilities will include:
- Supporting service users with their physical, emotional, social, and psychological needs
- Assisting qualified nursing staff with care delivery and therapeutic activities
- Carrying out practical procedures under supervision
- Supporting individuals with daily living activities, including personal care
- Accurately recording observations and contributing to care plans
- Responding calmly and appropriately to physical or mental health emergencies
- Acting as a named contact for service users during shifts
- Maintaining confidentiality, professionalism, and clear boundaries at all times
- Every day on Beech Ward is different, and you’ll be supported through regular supervision, training, and development opportunities.
Why Join Us?
- Work within a CQC Outstanding-rated service
- Be part of a supportive, experienced MDT
- Access to training, supervision, and career progression
- Gain valuable experience in mental health care for older adults
- Contribute to meaningful recovery-focused work
- Opportunities to develop your career within the NHS
- This role is ideal for someone passionate about mental health care or looking to progress further within healthcare.
About Devon Partnership NHS Trust
Devon Partnership NHS Trust provides mental health, learning disability, and neurodiversity services across Devon and the wider South West, including specialist and secure services.
We are committed to:
- Promoting recovery-focused, high-quality care
- Working in partnership with patients, carers, and families
- Creating an inclusive, supportive workplace
- Co-production at every level of service delivery
We actively welcome applications from people with lived experience of mental health conditions, neurodiversity, or learning disabilities and are proud to be a Disability Confident Leader.
Values That Matter
We recruit people who demonstrate:
- Compassion, dignity, and respect
- Commitment to improving lives
- Openness to learning and new ideas
- Professionalism and teamwork
- Sometimes this is as simple as taking time to listen, offering reassurance, or making someone feel valued.
Person Specification
Essential Qualifications
Basic education
- Willingness to complete the Care Certificate within the first 6 months (if not already achieved)
Desirable Qualifications
- NVQ Level 3 / QCF Level 3 in Health & Social Care
- Relevant training within mental health settings
Essential Skills & Abilities
- Ability to build and maintain therapeutic relationships
- Strong communication and listening skills
- Effective teamwork and time management
- Ability to work both independently and under direction
- Confidence supporting people in challenging situations
- Awareness of professional boundaries
- Ability to remain calm during emergencies
- Flexibility to work rotating shift patterns
Desirable Skills
- Problem-solving ability
- Understanding of mental and physical health needs
Experience
Essential:
- Experience working in a caring role or mental health environment
- Understanding of safeguarding principles
- Basic IT skills
Desirable:
- Previous experience supporting individuals with mental health needs
Safeguarding & Pre-Employment Checks
This role is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975
Visa & Right to Work Information
If you require UK sponsorship, please ensure this role meets eligibility criteria before applying:
- UK Skilled Worker visa information
- NHS visa guidance
- Right to work checks
- Equality Act 2010 overview
Employer Details
Devon Partnership NHS Trust
Beech Unit, Torbay Hospital
Lawes Bridge, Torquay
Devon, TQ2 7AA