At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals in mental health crises through safe and compassionate transport.
- Company: Join Secure Care UK, a leader in mental health transport services.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, training opportunities, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with opportunities for career progression and additional benefits.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives during their most vulnerable moments.
- Qualifications: Full UK Manual Driving License and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 27133 - 27133 £ per year.
Full Time Location: The Old Stables, Tonbridge Road, Mereworth, Maidstone, ME18 5LR
Reports To: Deputy Care Operations Manager
Shift Pattern: 4 on 4 off rolling shift pattern
Pay: Annual Remuneration starting from £27,133.80
If you're looking for a rewarding role in Mental Health Care, this is your opportunity! Working in healthcare allows you to make a real difference in people's lives during their most vulnerable moments. We are seeking compassionate and dedicated Mental Health Transport Assistants to join our growing team. Experience is a bonus, but not essential; full training is provided. We're looking for empathetic individuals who thrive in a team environment and are committed to providing respectful, person-centred care.
This role involves far more than driving. You'll be working directly with patients, ensuring their safe and dignified transport, often during mental health crises. Situations may require you to apply de-escalation techniques and trained interventions, always prioritising patient wellbeing. This is a highly unpredictable and emotionally demanding role, often supporting individuals in distress or crisis. Candidates must demonstrate compassion, patience, and emotional resilience. You will need to manage sensitive and sometimes distressing information, adapt quickly to changing situations, and maintain professionalism in high-pressure environments. In return, you will be part of a supportive and inclusive team making a meaningful difference every day.
Equal Opportunities
Secure Care UK is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. We welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation, in line with the Equality Act 2010.
What You'll Be Doing
- You will support a range of transport needs involving individuals detained under the Mental Health Act, including:
- Hospital transfers, court or prison escorts, and medical appointments
- House extractions under Section 135, working alongside police and mental health professionals to safely move patients from their home to a place of safety
- Community assessments, supporting local authority mental health reviews in people's homes
- Bed watch services, where you supervise and support admitted patients during hospital stays
- Suite Work, providing care and supervision for patients held in psychiatric suites under Section 136 or 135, often for up to 24-36 hours
You will work in crews of two or more, rotating between driving, escorting, and sitting with patients. We use secure, specially-adapted vehicles under 3.5 tonnes, with larger Safe Area Vehicles for more complex transfers.
Requirements
- Full UK Manual Driving License (Required)
- Enhanced DBS certificate within the last 3 years (Preferred)
- Strong communication skills and ability to stay calm under pressure
- Team player with resilience, empathy, and great attention to detail
- Minimum 12 months driving experience preferred
Who We Are
Secure Care UK was founded in 2013 in response to a national need for safe and compassionate transport for individuals detained under the Mental Health Act. We are the only Secure Patient Transport provider in the UK meeting Restraint Reduction Network (RRN) standards. Headquartered in St Leonards, we operate nationally and also handle some international transfers. Celebrating 10 years of service in 2023, our core values remain: Patient First, Respect, Openness, Unity, and Determination.
What We Offer
- Training & Development
- Full induction including de-escalation, physical intervention, handcuff training, and First Aid
- Additional specialist training and NVQ Diplomas
- Career progression and mentoring opportunities
- Benefits
- Company pension
- Refer-a-friend bonus
- Health Care Cash Plan (after 6-month probation)
- Blue Light Card eligibility
- Employee Assistance Programme (from day one)
- Full uniform and enhanced PPE
- Additional annual leave after 2 years
- Wagestream financial wellbeing platform
- Monthly Care Awards and driver recognition schemes
- Suggestion scheme with rewards for implemented ideas
Please Note: Due to the nature of our work, flexibility is essential. Shifts may overrun or vary depending on patient needs. Overtime is paid at £1.75 p/h, with enhanced pay (£1.20 p/h) for work involving Place of Safety and Bed Watch. We pay Over Runs at an additional £8 p/h. We are exempt from the Rehabilitation Offenders Act 1974. Please note that we DO NOT provide SPONSORSHIPS. We are Veteran Aware.
If you're passionate about making a difference and supporting people through challenging times, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and start a meaningful career with Secure Care UK.
Mental Health Transport Assistant in Dartford employer: Secure Care UK Limited
Secure Care UK is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in mental health care. Located in Maidstone, our supportive and inclusive work culture prioritises employee growth through comprehensive training and development opportunities, including specialist training and NVQ Diplomas. With a commitment to employee wellbeing, we offer a range of benefits such as a company pension, health care cash plan, and recognition schemes, ensuring that our team feels valued and empowered in their vital roles.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mental Health Transport Assistant in Dartford
✨Tap into Local Healthcare Networks
Getting involved with local healthcare communities is a game-changer for nursing roles. Join nursing associations or attend local events and workshops where you can meet fellow professionals and potential employers. It’s all about building those connections – your next full-time gig could be just a chat away!
✨Showcase Your Skills in Real-Life Settings
Consider volunteering at clinics or hospitals if you can squeeze in some time. Not only does this help you gain practical experience, but it also shows your commitment to patient care. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to network and potentially land a full-time role at a facility you enjoy!
✨Use LinkedIn like a Pro
Make your LinkedIn profile pop by highlighting your nursing skills prominently. Share articles, insights, or case studies that demonstrate your knowledge in patient care. Engaging with content in nursing forums can also put you on the radar of recruiters looking for full-time talent like you!
✨Direct Applications are Key!
When you spot a role that excites you, don't hold back – apply directly through our website! Tailor your application to show off how your specific experiences align with the needs at Secure Care UK Limited for the Mental Health Transport Assistant role. Companies appreciate candidates who take initiative and show genuine interest!
We think you need these skills to ace Mental Health Transport Assistant in Dartford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Qualifications:When applying for a full-time nursing role with Secure Care UK Limited, it's crucial to highlight your nursing qualifications. Make sure to include any relevant certifications, such as your NMC registration and any specialisations. List them front and centre on your CV so we can see your expertise at a glance!
Craft a Compassionate Cover Letter:Your cover letter is the perfect place to express your passion for patient care. Talk about your experiences, how you handle challenging situations, and your approach to teamwork. This gives us insight not just into your skills but also into your caring nature, which is essential in nursing.
Emphasise Soft Skills:In nursing, technical skills are important, but we're also keen on soft skills. Make sure to highlight your communication abilities, empathy, and problem-solving skills. These attributes are often just as critical in delivering exceptional patient care and will help differentiate you from other candidates.
Tailor Your Experience to Patient Care:When detailing your experience, be specific about your direct patient care roles. Focus on the impact you’ve made on your patients’ lives—mention specific tasks, challenges you've overcame, or improvements you’ve contributed to. This helps us visualise you in action at Secure Care UK Limited, and how you can make a difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Secure Care UK Limited
✨Brush Up on Clinical Scenarios
In nursing, you might face questions around patient scenarios, so sharpen your clinical judgment skills. Think through common cases—like managing a patient with specific needs or handling emergencies—and be ready to articulate your approach confidently.
✨Showcase Your Soft Skills
Beyond technical skills, nursing is all about communication and empathy. Prepare to share examples from your experiences that highlight your ability to connect with patients and work effectively in a team, as this is crucial for a full-time role at Secure Care UK Limited.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Healthcare Regulations
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest healthcare regulations and policies relevant to your role. This knowledge not only shows your commitment to patient safety but also signals that you're proactive and engaged—qualities that full-time employers like Secure Care UK Limited appreciate.
✨Ask AboutCareer Development Opportunities
Since this is a full-time position, show your ambition by asking how Secure Care UK Limited supports growth and development. Inquire about ongoing training, mentorship programmes, or opportunities to specialise in particular areas, as this illustrates your long-term interest in nursing.
