NELFT North East London Foundation Trust
Senior Mental Health Practitioner MHST
The closing date is 09 October 2026
Job summary
At NELFT, we are proud to be the largest provider of Mental Health Support Teams (MHSTs) in England. Our teams deliver evidence-based interventions in schools and colleges for children and young people aged 418, while also supporting Whole School Approaches to improve wellbeing across education settings. Working closely with school-based services and linking with CAMHS where needed, MHSTs play a vital role in strengthening mental health support for young people. We are seeking an experienced and motivated Senior Mental Health Practitioner (SMHP) to join our South-West Essex MHSTs (areas include Thurrock, Brentwood and Billericay and Basildon). You will deliver CBT interventions, lead Whole School Approach activities, and support Education Mental Health Practitioners through supervision and guidance. The role also includes developing school networks, delivering staff training, supporting group programmes, and co-producing mental health resources.
Main duties of the job
Applicants should be CYPMHS clinicians undertaking or having completed CYP-PT CBT or SFP training, or registered professionals with a postgraduate diploma in evidence-based psychological therapies. Strong CBT experience is essential. Please read the job description for the essential criteria. You will work closely with schools to embed MHST support, develop materials for interventions, and promote positive mental health across education communities. Regular travel between schools is required, so access to a car is desirable.
About us
NELFT NHS Foundation Trust provides mental health and community services for over 4.9 million people living in the London Boroughs of Waltham Forest, Redbridge, Barking and Dagenham, Havering, and across Essex. We work to ensure our patients, their friends and family, feel confident that their health needs are well met. With an excellent reputation for research and development, our skilled health professionals are at the cutting edge of evidence-based innovation, opening up the possibilities for better ways of working and delivery of care.
Details
Date posted
25 September 2026
Pay scheme
Agenda for change
Band
Band 6
Salary
£39,959 to £48,117 a year
Contract
Permanent
Working pattern
Full-time
Reference number
PHX-3EL-002131
Job locations
- Phoenix House
- Basildon
- Essex
- SS14 3EZ
- United Kingdom
Employer details
Employer name
NELFT North East London Foundation Trust
Address
Phoenix House
Basildon
Essex
SS14 3EZ
United Kingdom
Employer's website
https://www.nelft.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)
Employer contact details
For questions about the job, contact:
Manager
Zoe Houchin
recruitment@nelft.nhs.uk
Applicants should be CYPMHS clinicians undertaking or having completed CYP-PT CBT or SFP training, or registered professionals with a postgraduate diploma in evidence-based psychological therapies. Strong CBT experience is essential. Please read the job description for the essential criteria. You will work closely with schools to embed MHST support, develop materials for interventions, and promote positive mental health across education communities. Regular travel between schools is required, so access to a car is desirable.
At NELFT, we are proud to be the largest provider of Mental Health Support Teams (MHSTs) in England. Our teams deliver evidence-based interventions in schools and colleges for children and young people aged 418, while also supporting Whole School Approaches to improve wellbeing across education settings. Working closely with school-based services and linking with CAMHS where needed, MHSTs play a vital role in strengthening mental health support for young people. We are seeking an experienced and motivated Senior Mental Health Practitioner (SMHP) to join our South-West Essex MHSTs (areas include Thurrock, Brentwood and Billericay and Basildon). You will deliver CBT interventions, lead Whole School Approach activities, and support Education Mental Health Practitioners through supervision and guidance. The role also includes developing school networks, delivering staff training, supporting group programmes, and co-producing mental health resources., NELFT NHS Foundation Trust provides mental health and community services for over 4.9 million people living in the London Boroughs of Waltham Forest, Redbridge, Barking and Dagenham, Havering, and across Essex. We work to ensure our patients, their friends and family, feel confident that their health needs are well met. With an excellent reputation for research and development, our skilled health professionals are at the cutting edge of evidence-based innovation, opening up the possibilities for better ways of working and delivery of care.
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Senior Mental Health Practitioner MHST in Basildon employer: NELFT North East London Foundation Trust
NELFT NHS Foundation Trust is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment that aligns with our core values of kindness, respect, and community engagement. Located in the vibrant areas of Barking and Dagenham, Havering, Redbridge, and Waltham Forest, we offer our employees ample opportunities for professional growth through ongoing training and development, as well as the chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of over 4.9 million people. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking organisation that prioritises innovation in mental health care and values the contributions of every team member.
Contact Details:
NELFT North East London Foundation Trust Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
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Some tips for your application 🫡
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