Paediatric Neurodevelopmental Clinical Nurse Specialist/Practitioner in Dorchester

The Neurodevelopmental Clinical Nurse Specialist/Practitioner is a Non‑Medical Prescriber who will work within the Community Paediatric team to provide specialist support to children and young people with a diagnosis of ADHD and other neurodevelopmental disorders, and their families. The role also offers the opportunity under clinical supervision to be involved in the assessment and feedback elements of the service for ASD/ADHD.

Main Duties:

• Hold a caseload and independently prescribe medications for ADHD under agreed service protocols, in collaboration with the child/young person’s Community Paediatrician and in accordance with local and NICE guidelines (NG87) and the Competency Framework for all Prescribers (Royal Pharmaceutical Society 2016).
• Actively participate in the management of new referrals, including initial grading and multidisciplinary triage of cases.
• Take a coordinating role, liaising formally with other services for children and young people.
• Play a key role within the Neurodevelopmental pathway, facilitating and developing assessment and management plans where there is a query or diagnosis.
• Ensure high‑quality assessment and support following local and national guidance.
• Work closely with the clinical psychology team to ensure timely formal assessments.

About Us:

The West Dorset Community Paediatric Team investigates, assesses, diagnoses and offers treatment for children and young people with neurodevelopmental disorders and disabilities. The team collaborates with Local Authority, Social Care and other health care professionals to create a support network. We pride ourselves on the care we provide for our patients and on a fair, inclusive environment for staff. Our mission is to partner to provide high‑quality, compassionate services and nurture an environment where people can be at their best. We celebrate diversity and welcome applications from all under‑represented groups.

Job Responsibilities & Person Specification:

Our updated Job Description and Person Specification details the role. When completing your application please demonstrate how your experience and skills match the specification.

Essential:

• Registered Child Nursing or Allied Health professional.
• Educated to BSc/MSc or equivalent level in a relevant field.
• Independent Non‑Medical Prescribing qualification (active on the NMC register) or willingness to undertake.
• Minimum 5 years post‑registration experience, including at band 6 level.
• Significant post‑registration experience working with children and young people with Autism.
• Extensive knowledge of Autism and ADHD diagnostic procedures and treatment packages.
• Experience working with children and young people and their families.
• Caring and empathetic attitude to patients.
• Ability to make autonomous clinical decisions and judgments.
• Medicines management expertise.
• Ability to gather data, compile information and write reports.
• Knowledge of national paediatric guidelines relevant to the specialty.
• Ability to manage highly emotional and distressing situations.
• Effective communication with patients, relatives, GPs, hospital staff and other agencies.
• Full driving licence valid in the UK and access to a car.
• Proficient IT skills.
• Developed clinical skills.

Desirable:

• Experience managing or advising on sleep disorders.
• Evidence of developing policy, guidelines and managing resources.
• Critical appraisal skills.
• Coaching and mentoring skills.

Additional Information:

• This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975. A DBS check will be required.
• Applications requiring Skilled Worker sponsorship will be considered.
• Applicants must have current UK professional registration.