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:
- Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance
UK professional registration
Eligibility to work in the UK (Skilled Worker sponsorship may be available)
Useful UK Government Resources
For more information related to this role and requirements, you may find the following official resources helpful:
- Mental Health Act guidance
Mental Capacity Act overview
Skilled Worker visa information
DBS checks and criminal record guidance
Working in health and care in the UK