Mental Health Liaison Practitioner - Band 5-6 Developmental Post in Scarborough

We are excited to offer a full time Band 5-6 development post in Scarborough Acute Hospital Liaison Service (AHLS). This post is open to both experienced Band 5 clinicians, who are already operating at Band 6 level and developing Band 5 staff. Our Senior Leadership are committed to supporting any successful Band 5 clinician through role‑specific competencies to allow them to develop the knowledge and skills to progress in their career to a Band 6. Once all competencies are successfully demonstrated, the applicant will receive a permanent Band 6 position within the team.

The AHLS Team work into A&E and the hospital wards, supporting adults with a range of mental health symptoms and safety needs. People referred to the AHLS Team may also have complex comorbid physical health and social needs. We are looking for a passionate, dedicated and motivated clinician who is excited about working within a busy acute hospital A&E department and on acute hospital wards.

This role may be eligible for sponsorship under the UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) Skilled Worker route. However, sponsorship can only be provided where applicants meet the specific requirements, therefore, we recommend that you assess your eligibility before applying for this position.

• Provide liaison support to staff in the acute hospital, managing the mental health and well‑being of patients admitted for physical care.
• Respond to referrals requesting a mental state assessment for people presenting with an acute mental health problem in A&E or on the ward, meeting clear response times and targets.
• Be professionally accountable and provide specialist advice and support to facilitate mental health care for patients in the acute hospital.
• Present the views of patients and carers to the clinical teams to facilitate collaborative working.
• Liaise with other professionals and agencies in the development and facilitation of safe and effective discharge plans, reducing hospital length of stay and readmission.
• Promote the principles of the Recovery Model and Trauma Informed Care, and enhance staff knowledge through specialist advice and training.

• Current professional registration with an approved professional body – Nursing & Midwifery Council (RNMH or RNLD), HCPC (e.g. OT), Social Work England (Social Worker).
• Recognised practice assessor/mentor or working towards this within an agreed timeframe.
• Trained Clinical Supervisor (within 6 months of probationary period).
• Evidence of continuing professional development.

• Working with people with mental ill health or learning disabilities.
• Working in a person‑centred therapeutic organisation.
• Collaborating with service users and their families/carers.
• Working in a multi‑disciplinary team.
• Working in partnership with other agencies.
• Experience in a community setting.

• Evidence‑based knowledge of best practice in caring for patients in the designated field.
• Understanding of relevant legislation (e.g. Mental Health Act, Mental Capacity Act).
• Understanding of safeguarding and its application in practice.
• Understanding of clinical risk assessment and management and its application in practice.
• Understanding of clinical governance and clinical supervision, including application in practice.
• Understanding of psychological models of care and treatment.

• Ability to manage own time and prioritise effectively.
• Self‑motivation and ability to motivate and work positively and assertively with other members of the team.
• Flexibility and cooperation as part of a team.
• Independent decision making using own initiative.
• Self‑awareness and commitment to professional and personal development, including acceptance of feedback from supervision.
• Compassionate meeting of the needs of vulnerable people and their families/carers.

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and will require a submission to the Disclosure and Barring Service to check for any previous criminal convictions.

For more information about this job or to arrange an informal visit to the team, please contact: Kelly Green – Acute Hospital Liaison Team Manager, Tyra Sutton – Community Modern Matron.