Assistant Psychologist in Wakefield

Assistant Psychologist in Wakefield

Wakefield Full-Time 27485 - 30162 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support research and clinical work in a trauma-informed service for children and young people.
  • Company: Join the South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Trust, a leader in mental health services.
  • Benefits: Part-time hours, flexible working, training, and a positive work environment.
  • Other info: Opportunity to develop expertise in a supportive and inclusive setting.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people with forensic behaviour.
  • Qualifications: Honours degree in Psychology and experience with children’s mental health.

The predicted salary is between 27485 - 30162 ÂŁ per year.

South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Trust is recruiting an Assistant Psychologist to join the Forensic Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (FCAMHS) based at Wakefield. The role is part‑time (30 hrs/week) on a 24‑month fixed‑term contract, with an annual salary of £27,485 to £30,162 (pro‑rata). The successful candidate will support research and clinical work in a psychologically informed, trauma‑informed service providing support to children and young people aged 0‑18 who present with forensic behaviour.

Key Responsibilities

  • Collaborate on the National FCAMHS Randomised Controlled Trial using Mentalisation‑Based Therapy for young people with violence or aggression: collect, collate and analyse data for research reports.
  • Provide protocol‑based psychological assessments (neuropsychological tests, self‑report measures, observation and interview) under supervision of a HCPC registered practitioner psychologist.
  • Assist in developing and delivering care plans, therapeutic groups and clinical projects according to the service framework.
  • Support audit and research projects: collect data, run statistical analyses (e.g., SPSS) and produce audit reports.
  • Attend multi‑disciplinary and clinical meetings, contribute to service development and training activities.
  • Maintain detailed clinical records and reports in line with NHS and HCPC standards.

Professional Qualifications and Experience

  • Honours degree in Psychology (2:1) or equivalent.
  • Entitlement to graduate membership of the British Psychological Society.
  • Experience of working with children and young people with mental health problems and/or forensic needs.
  • Experience of administering and scoring neuropsychological assessments is desirable.
  • Good communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to convey sensitive information to patients, carers and colleagues.
  • Experience of using computer databases or statistical software (SPSS) is desirable.
  • Ability to work independently, reliably and consistently with supervision and to travel throughout the catchment area.
  • Current driving licence and access to a car during the working day is essential.

Benefits and Working Conditions

  • Part‑time, flexible working pattern (9 am – 5 pm Monday to Friday).
  • Training and supervision with a principal psychologist and the wider psychology network.
  • Opportunity to develop research and clinical expertise within a leading forensic service.
  • Positive and inclusive working environment within a specialist NHS Foundation Trust.
  • All employees are strongly encouraged to be fully vaccinated against COVID‑19.

Application Information

To apply, send your CV and cover letter to Helen.Bradbrook2@swyt.nhs.uk or call 01924 316066. The application deadline is 20 November 2025. We encourage and welcome applications from all protected characteristic groups; we value diversity and want our workforce to reflect our communities.

Key Competencies

  • Clinical competence in psychological assessment and intervention.
  • Data analysis and research presentation skills.
  • Cultural sensitivity and respect for diversity.
  • Effective teamwork and communication across multidisciplinary settings.

Assistant Psychologist in Wakefield employer: Cheswold Park Hospital

South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises the professional growth of its staff. As an Assistant Psychologist in the Forensic Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service based in Wakefield, you will benefit from flexible working hours, comprehensive training, and the opportunity to develop your clinical and research skills within a leading forensic service dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people. Join us in a role where your contributions are valued, and you can truly make a difference.
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Contact Detail:

Cheswold Park Hospital Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Assistant Psychologist in Wakefield

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the forensic child and adolescent mental health field. Attend relevant events or webinars, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for your interview by brushing up on your knowledge of Mentalisation-Based Therapy and the specific needs of children and young people with forensic behaviour. We recommend practising common interview questions and even role-playing with a friend to boost your confidence.

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase your skills! Bring examples of your previous work with children and young people, especially any experience with psychological assessments or data analysis. We want to see how you can contribute to the team and support the service’s goals.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our organisation. Let’s get you that Assistant Psychologist role!

We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Psychologist in Wakefield

Data Analysis
Research Skills
Psychological Assessment
Neuropsychological Testing
Mentalisation-Based Therapy
Statistical Software (SPSS)
Communication Skills
Teamwork
Cultural Sensitivity
Clinical Record Keeping
Problem-Solving Skills
Adaptability
Attention to Detail
Ability to Work Independently

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Assistant Psychologist role. Highlight relevant experience, especially with children and young people, and any specific skills like neuropsychological assessments or data analysis that match the job description.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about working in forensic child and adolescent mental health. Mention any relevant projects or experiences that demonstrate your fit for the role.

Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to showcase your communication skills in both your CV and cover letter. The ability to convey sensitive information is key, so give examples of how you've done this in past roles or experiences.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the team!

How to prepare for a job interview at Cheswold Park Hospital

✨Know Your Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of forensic child and adolescent mental health. Familiarise yourself with Mentalisation-Based Therapy and the specifics of the National FCAMHS Randomised Controlled Trial. This will show that you're genuinely interested in the role and understand the context.

✨Showcase Your Experience

Prepare to discuss your previous experience working with children and young people, especially those with mental health issues. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've used psychological assessments or contributed to care plans. This will help demonstrate your clinical competence.

✨Get Comfortable with Data

Since the role involves data collection and analysis, make sure you're familiar with SPSS or any statistical software. You might be asked about your experience with data analysis during the interview, so having a few examples ready will give you an edge.

✨Communicate Clearly

Effective communication is key in this role. Practice conveying complex information in a simple way, as you'll need to explain sensitive topics to patients and their families. Think about how you can demonstrate your communication skills through your answers and questions during the interview.

Assistant Psychologist in Wakefield
Cheswold Park Hospital
Location: Wakefield
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