Job Description
Overview of the Role
This is a rewarding opportunity for a Consultant Psychiatrist to join a well-established Community Mental Health Team (CMHT) in South Somerset. You will become part of a supportive consultant group, working alongside two other consultants and an experienced Associate Specialist.
Your primary focus will be the Yeovil West locality, supporting a defined population of approximately 45,000 patients across several GP practices. The service follows a modern, functional model, separating community and inpatient responsibilities to ensure focused and effective care delivery.
You will provide senior clinical leadership, oversee complex cases, and contribute to shaping high-quality, patient-centred mental health services.
Key Responsibilities
Clinical Leadership & Patient Care
- Manage a caseload of patients with severe mental illness (SMI) and complex needs
Conduct diagnostic assessments and oversee treatment planning
Provide specialist input for cases involving comorbidities and ADHD
Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to deliver holistic care
Support safe prescribing and medication monitoring
Referral & Assessment Process
- Review referrals from GPs and other sources through a structured single point of access
Participate in case discussions and decision-making meetings
Conduct outpatient assessments independently or jointly with team members
Ensure appropriate allocation and prioritisation of cases
On-Call Responsibilities
- Participate in a 1:11 on-call rota
Provide senior clinical cover for inpatient services across the Trust
Contribute to emergency assessments and Mental Health Act duties
Option to join additional senior out-of-hours rota (subject to availability)
Working Environment
You will be based at Summerlands Hospital, working within a highly collaborative environment that includes psychologists, nurses, social workers, occupational therapists, and other specialists.
The service is closely integrated with wider mental health initiatives, including:
- Assertive Outreach Team (AOT) for complex, hard-to-engage patients
Early Psychosis and Home Treatment Teams
“Open Mental Health” – a progressive service linking NHS care with community and voluntary sector support
This integrated approach allows for more personalised, flexible, and recovery-focused care.
Why Join Somerset NHS Foundation Trust?
Somerset offers an excellent quality of life, combining scenic countryside with easy access to cities like Bristol, Bath, and Exeter.
As part of the Trust, you will benefit from:
- Flexible working arrangements
Generous annual leave entitlement
NHS Pension Scheme
Career development and leadership opportunities
Access to Blue Light Card discounts
Person Specification
Essential Qualifications
- MBBS (or equivalent medical qualification)
GMC Specialist Registration (or eligibility within 6 months)
MRC Psych qualification
Section 12 approval and Approved Clinician status
Accreditation for training junior doctors
Essential Experience
- Minimum 3 years’ higher specialist training (ST4–ST6 or equivalent)
Experience working at consultant level in adult psychiatry
Strong background in community mental health services
Experience managing ADHD and complex psychiatric conditions
Key Skills & Attributes
- Strong clinical decision-making and leadership abilities
Excellent communication and team collaboration skills
Ability to work independently and manage complex caseloads
Commitment to service development and quality improvement
Understanding of clinical governance and NHS structures
Additional Information
This role requires a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
Skilled Worker visa sponsorship is available for eligible candidates
For UK visa guidance:
Applicants may need to provide overseas criminal record checks if applicable
Location
Summerlands Hospital
- 56 Preston Road
Yeovil, Somerset
BA20 2BN
Apply Early
Applications may close before the deadline if a high number of submissions are received. Early application is encouraged.