Assistant Psychologist (NHS AfC: Band 5) - Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Assistant Psychologist (NHS AfC: Band 5) - Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust

Assistant Psychologist (NHS AfC: Band 5) - Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust

Derby Full-Time 25000 - 30000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support psychologists in assessments and interventions within a multidisciplinary team.
  • Company: Join Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, a compassionate and inclusive workplace.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours and a supportive environment focused on personal development.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in mental health while working with a dedicated team.
  • Qualifications: Must have a 2:1 psychology degree and be eligible for BPS graduate membership.
  • Other info: This role may close early due to high application volumes, so apply soon!

The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.

View our current vacancies by professional area below, or view all our vacancies athealthjobsuk.com

Main area Assistant Psychologist Grade NHS AfC: Band 5 Contract Permanent Hours Full time – 37.5 hours per week (Flexible working possible.) Job ref 383-SPE-5890-25

Site Cherry Tree Close Town Derby Salary £29,970 – £36,483 pa, pro-rata Salary period Yearly Closing 20/07/2025 23:59

Want to make a real difference and have a truly rewarding career? Join \’Team Derbyshire Healthcare\’ and become part of a talented, compassionate and enthusiastic workforce committed to a vision of ‘making a positive difference in people\’s lives’.

We’ve been rated ‘good’ overall by the CQC, with some outstanding services. The CQC commented at our most recent inspection on how our colleagues “treated patients with compassion and kindness” and “felt positive and proud about working for the trust.

We are passionate about making equality, diversity and inclusion part of our DNA. We take pride in our “People First Culture” which creates a workplace where everyone feels a genuine sense of belonging, difference is celebrated, and people are comfortable to bring their whole selves to work. We value the richness that comes from having colleagues that are fully representative of the local community. We welcome people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, protected characteristics, and with all backgrounds and experiences.

Job overview

Please note, if a high volume of applications is received, this advert may close early so please ensure you submit your application without delay.

The Derbyshire Forensic/ Rehabilitation Mental Health Service welcomes applications for a permanent Band 5 Assistant Psychologist (1.0 WTE).

The assistant will support the psychologists across the inpatient rehabilitation service and will work directly under the supervision of one of the Clinical Psychologists in the team. The assistant will be a integral part of the multidisciplinary team.

We are looking for an enthusiastic, compassionate individual who can show initiative and is confident working both independently and within a multidisciplinary team.

The successful candidate must have already obtained a UK university honours degree in psychology graded at 2:1/1 or an equivalent qualification, conferring the BPS approved graduate basis for registration.

Main duties of the job

The successful applicant will join a team of experienced psychologists, assisting in carrying out assessments, formulations and delivering interventions as well as inputting to service development and evaluation.

Working for our organisation

The forensic/rehabilitation division is a rapidly expanding service consisting of both inpatient and community services.

There is a strong psychology department within the Trust which facilitates regular specialised supervision and training, leads on the development of trauma informed practice, encourages personal and professional development, and has good links with the regional training courses.

The Trust is incredibly supportive of their work force and go above and beyond to ensure staff are being looked after and feel supported.

The successful candidate will be part of a dedicated and compassionate multi-disciplinary team, dedicated to providing a high quality rehabilitation service to clients with complex social and emotional needs.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Please review the Job Description and Person Specification. To apply, please click APPLY FOR THIS JOB – this link will take you to the TRAC Recruitment Site. You will need to register if you do not already have an account

Person specification

Qualifications

  • Good honours degree in psychology (2.1 or above)
  • Eligible for graduate membership of BPS
  • Further post graduate training (masters, PhD)

Experience

  • Experience of working in a mental health setting
  • Previous experience of working as an assistant psychologist or equivalent role
  • Experience of administering and scoring psychometric tests
  • Experience of working with people with cognitive difficulties/neurodiversity
  • Experience of working with complex MH presentations including psychosis
  • Knowledge of forensic Risk Formulation and Assessment
  • Previous experience of working within NHS
  • Experience of designing and running groups

Knowledge and Skills

  • Understanding of mental health presentations and needs
  • Good interpersonal skills, communication style, writing style
  • Ability to process text, set up and use databases and spreadsheets
  • Ability to communicate sensitive information to clients, carer and colleagues in a way that addresses psychological resistance
  • Use of Microsoft excel, SPSS, Studio R
  • Knowledge of working with trauma / grief
  • Knowledge of working within forensic services
  • Knowledge of mental health difficulties

Other

  • Able to meet travel requirements

Additional Information

Flexible Working

As a flexible working friendly organisation, we want to be sure that you can work in a way that is best for our service and for you. Speak to us about how we might be able to accommodate a flexible working arrangement whether that\’s job share, part time or another flexible pattern.

Disability Confident Employer

The Trust is a Disability Confident Employer. If you require any reasonable adjustments to support you in the recruitment process please let us know.

If you require any support in completing the application form please do not hesitate to contact the Recruitment Team, 01332 564856, option 1, option 1 or email dchst.recruitment@nhs.net and we will be happy to provide assistance.

DBS Checks

The cost of undertaking a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) disclosure will be met by the individual. The Trust will meet the initial costs of the disclosure which will be deducted from your first month’s salary.

This job may close early if a large number of applications are received. You are advised to submit your application as early as possible to avoid missing your chance to apply.

Employer certification / accreditation badges

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Information about joining our bank of temporary workers

Information on the support and education we provide to junior doctors during their years of clinical training

Information about the agreed set of commitments that employees can each expect from the Trust, and give in return

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Assistant Psychologist (NHS AfC: Band 5) - Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust employer: Derbyshire Healthcare NHS

Join 'Team Derbyshire Healthcare' and be part of a compassionate workforce dedicated to making a positive difference in people's lives. With a strong emphasis on professional development, flexible working arrangements, and a commitment to equality and inclusion, we foster a supportive environment where every employee can thrive. Our 'People First Culture' ensures that you will feel valued and empowered as you contribute to high-quality rehabilitation services in a rapidly expanding mental health division.
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Contact Detail:

Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Assistant Psychologist (NHS AfC: Band 5) - Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of the Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. Research their values, especially around compassion and teamwork, and think about how your experiences align with these principles.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with current or former employees of the trust. Reach out on platforms like LinkedIn to gain insights into the work culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during interviews.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your experience in mental health settings, particularly any roles where you've worked with complex presentations. Be ready to share specific examples that demonstrate your skills and understanding of the field.

✨Tip Number 4

Showcase your commitment to professional development. Mention any relevant training or workshops you've attended, especially those related to trauma-informed practice or forensic services, as this aligns with the trust's focus.

We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Psychologist (NHS AfC: Band 5) - Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust

Understanding of mental health presentations and needs
Good interpersonal skills
Effective communication skills
Strong writing skills
Ability to process text and use databases and spreadsheets
Experience in administering and scoring psychometric tests
Knowledge of forensic risk formulation and assessment
Experience working with individuals with cognitive difficulties/neurodiversity
Ability to communicate sensitive information effectively
Familiarity with Microsoft Excel, SPSS, and Studio R
Knowledge of trauma-informed practice
Experience in designing and running therapeutic groups
Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
Compassionate and empathetic approach to client care
Initiative and problem-solving skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description and person specification. Understand the key responsibilities and qualifications required for the Assistant Psychologist position at Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.

Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job requirements. Emphasise any previous roles in mental health settings, your understanding of psychological assessments, and your ability to work within a multidisciplinary team.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for psychology and your commitment to making a positive difference in people's lives. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your suitability for the role and how you embody the values of the organisation.

Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in the field of psychology.

How to prepare for a job interview at Derbyshire Healthcare NHS

✨Show Your Passion for Mental Health

Make sure to express your genuine interest in mental health and rehabilitation services during the interview. Share any personal experiences or motivations that led you to pursue a career in psychology, as this will resonate with the interviewers and demonstrate your commitment to making a positive difference.

✨Highlight Relevant Experience

Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in mental health settings, especially any roles similar to an assistant psychologist. Mention specific tasks you've undertaken, such as administering psychometric tests or working with diverse populations, to showcase your suitability for the role.

✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills

Since the role involves working within a multidisciplinary team, emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively with others. Provide examples of how you've successfully worked in teams before, highlighting your communication skills and adaptability in different situations.

✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and understanding of mental health issues. Practice responding to hypothetical situations you might encounter in the role, focusing on your thought process and how you would approach each case.

Assistant Psychologist (NHS AfC: Band 5) - Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Derbyshire Healthcare NHS

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