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- Tasks: Join our IRS team to support mental health and provide crisis care.
- Company: Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust, dedicated to improving mental health services.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, comprehensive support, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Exciting opportunities for growth and development in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a vital service that helps people in crisis and enhances their wellbeing.
- Qualifications: Experience in mental health support and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 37338 - 44962 £ per year.
Base location: Avondale, Royal Preston Hospital, or Ormskirk District General Hospital – positions are available at either base.
Come and join our Initial Response Service (IRS) team. This is an exciting time to be part of the crisis pathway and support people with mental health to ensure they access the most appropriate support at the right time.
New Service Offers
- A single referral point for GPs and other professionals
- A 24‑hour telephone advice and support line for people who use services and carers, allowing self‑reference and triage/assessment over the phone or face‑to‑face
- More responsive crisis services with improved experiences for people who use services, carers and professionals
- A 24‑hour service that allows flexible working patterns when required
- IRS acts as the front door to services, enabling clinicians to respond within hours and deliver excellent customer service, which contributes to high job satisfaction
Responsibilities
- Work scheduled shifts within the IRS team based at Royal Preston Hospital and Preston
- Conduct referral screening, triage calls, sign‑posting and assessments over the telephone or face‑to‑face
- Support call handlers and administrative staff in providing information and assistance to callers
- Collaborate with the multidisciplinary team to ensure timely and appropriate service delivery
- Maintain accurate records and documentation as required by service protocols
Qualifications
A wide range of resources, tools and support are available to help you thrive both in and out of work.
Important Note
This advert closes on Tuesday 12 May 2026.
IRS Urgent care Practitioner | Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust employer: Lancashire Care Foundation Trust
Contact Detail:
Lancashire Care Foundation Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land IRS Urgent care Practitioner | Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees of the NHS, especially those in the IRS team. They can give you insider info and maybe even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your crisis management skills. Think about real-life scenarios where you've made a difference in someone's mental health journey. We want to hear your stories!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for mental health support during your interview. Talk about why this role excites you and how you can contribute to the IRS team. Authenticity goes a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace IRS Urgent care Practitioner | Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the IRS Urgent Care Practitioner role. Highlight your relevant experience in mental health support and crisis management, as this will show us you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t just list your qualifications; demonstrate how your skills align with the responsibilities mentioned in the job description. We want to see how you can contribute to our team and improve the experiences of those we support.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. This helps us quickly grasp your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role, making it easier for us to see you as a great fit.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and allows you to keep track of your application status easily.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancashire Care Foundation Trust
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of an IRS Urgent Care Practitioner. Familiarise yourself with the crisis pathway and how your role fits into it. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As this role involves triage calls and assessments, it's crucial to demonstrate your communication skills. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You might even want to prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated in past roles, especially in high-pressure situations.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills. Think about potential crisis situations you might encounter and how you would handle them. This will not only prepare you for the questions but also show your ability to think on your feet.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the team dynamics, the support available for staff, or how success is measured in the role. This shows your enthusiasm for the position and helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.