Community Psychiatric Nurse (CPN) - Locum Band 6
The Locum Band 6 Community Psychiatric Nurse (CPN) will work within the Community Mental Health Teams (CMHTs) to deliver high-quality care to adults and older adults with a range of mental health conditions. This role involves conducting assessments, developing care plans, delivering interventions, and coordinating care with multidisciplinary teams. The post holder will support patients living in the community, facilitating their recovery and promoting mental wellbeing.
You will work with adults and older adults who may have mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, dementia, and other complex psychiatric conditions, providing tailored care and interventions to support their recovery and improve their quality of life.
Assessment & Care Planning
Carry out comprehensive mental health assessments of adults and older adults in the community, considering medical, psychological, social, and environmental factors. Develop individualised care plans with a focus on recovery, goal setting, and person-centred care, ensuring involvement from the patient and their family/carers. Conduct detailed risk assessments and provide appropriate risk management strategies for individuals, particularly those at risk of self-harm, harm to others, or deterioration of mental health.
Clinical Intervention & Treatment
Provide direct nursing interventions, including medication management, therapeutic support, and crisis intervention for individuals with mental health needs. Deliver evidence-based psychological interventions as part of a broader treatment plan (e.g., Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, family therapy). Administer prescribed medication and monitor for side effects, supporting medication adherence, and ensuring service users are informed about their treatment options.
Crisis Intervention & Support
Provide rapid assessment and intervention during times of crisis, including de-escalation and access to additional services (e.g., psychiatric emergency services, hospital admission). Support the management of acute mental health episodes in the community, working to reduce the need for hospital admissions.
Multidisciplinary Collaboration
Work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team, including psychiatrists, social workers, psychologists, occupational therapists, and support staff, to deliver coordinated care. Participate in case discussions, care reviews, and multidisciplinary team meetings to ensure holistic care is provided. Liaise with other healthcare professionals, including GPs, physiotherapists, and home care services, to ensure continuity and consistency of care.
Family & Carer Support
Engage with family members and carers to provide psycho-education, support, and guidance on managing the patient's condition at home. Support the development of carer and family support networks, including signposting to additional services and resources.
Documentation & Record Keeping
Maintain accurate, up-to-date records of patient assessments, care plans, interventions, and outcomes in line with trust policies and professional guidelines. Ensure documentation is completed promptly, adhering to confidentiality and data protection standards (e.g., GDPR).
Safeguarding & Risk Management
Identify safeguarding concerns and make appropriate referrals to safeguarding teams, local authorities, or other statutory agencies. Implement risk management strategies, including safety planning for patients at risk of harm to themselves or others.
Professional Development & Supervision
Participate in regular clinical supervision to ensure personal and professional development, and receive support with challenging cases. Engage in ongoing professional development to keep up-to-date with the latest research, best practices, and legislative changes in mental health care. Support and mentor junior staff or students as required.
Qualifications and Experience
Essential
Registered Mental Health Nurse (RMN) with active NMC registration. Proven experience in community mental health settings, including working with both adults and older adults. Experience in conducting mental health assessments and developing care plans. Knowledge and experience in managing risk in a community setting. Experience in working with individuals with complex mental health conditions, including psychosis, depression, dementia, and co-morbid physical health issues. Knowledge of mental health legislation (e.g., Mental Health Act, Mental Capacity Act) and safeguarding policies. Excellent communication skills, including the ability to build rapport and work effectively with service users, families, and multidisciplinary teams.
Desirable
Experience working with older adults, particularly those with dementia or age-related mental health conditions. Post-registration qualifications in mental health (e.g., Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dementia Care, Risk Management). Previous locum experience or flexible working arrangements in a similar role.
Personal Attributes
Empathy and Compassion: Ability to work with vulnerable individuals in a respectful and compassionate manner. Clinical Judgement: Strong decision-making skills and the ability to assess and manage complex and challenging cases. Adaptability: Able to adjust to the varying demands of community mental health services and respond to new challenges. Team Player: Collaborative approach to working with others, with excellent interpersonal skills. Organised and Efficient: Able to manage a caseload and prioritise tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment.