Assistant Psychologist in Forensic Psychology | Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust

Essex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust; England; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare organization in the United Kingdom is seeking an Assistant Psychologist for the Robin Pinto Unit to support forensic psychological services. The role includes contributing to clinical tasks, co-facilitating treatment groups, and engaging with a multidisciplinary team. Ideal candidates should have a BPS accredited psychology degree and a commitment to developing their clinical skills. Regular supervision will be provided to enhance professional growth.

Qualifications

• Degree from a BPS accredited course in psychology (2:1 or above).
• Enthusiastic and committed graduate with an interest in developing clinical skills in a forensic setting.

Responsibilities

• Support qualified psychologists in clinical and research tasks.
• Co-facilitate group therapy programmes and assist in clinical planning.
• Complete service level audit projects for quality initiatives.
• Liaise with professionals and participate in case discussions.
• Attend clinical meetings and shadow team members.
• Perform clinically related administration.

Skills

Enthusiastic graduate

Interest in forensic psychology

Clinical skills development

Education

Degree from BPS accredited course in psychology (2:1 or above)

Job description

Overview

Robin Pinto Unit is an 18 bedded low secure unit for males with severe and enduring mental health problems who have been detained under the Mental Health Act. Patients present with a range of co-morbid problems, including psychosis, personality disorders, and history of substance abuse. Patients often have a history of criminal offences, including convictions of violence offences and/or sexual offences.

We currently have a vacancy for an Assistant Psychologist to join Forensic Psychological Services, and be based at Robin Pinto Unit, on a Fixed Term Contract of one year. This post would be suitable for someone who wishes to gain further experience in the fields of clinical or forensic psychology. The post holder will be given regular supervision with a qualified psychologist, and will be supported to develop their understanding of the applications of psychology with a range of mental health needs.

It is crucial that candidates have a Degree from a BPS accredited course in psychology (2:1 and above).

Post holders will have the opportunity to observe psychological assessments and interventions being carried out by psychologists, to jointly facilitate treatment groups, and to independently carry out pieces of clinical work, such as psychometric and neuropsychological assessments, risk assessments and appropriate clinical interventions under supervision. Training will be given in relevant areas to support the post holder both in this role and in their on-going career progression.

Candidates need to be an enthusiastic and committed graduate who wishes to develop their clinical skills working in a progressive team providing a high quality psychology service for adults with severe and enduring mental health problems.

Please note this job advert will close early should a high volume of applications be received

Robin Pinto Unit has a multidisciplinary team including a consultant psychiatrist, ward doctor, nursing staff, psychologist, social worker, and occupational therapist. The psychology team aims to address patients’ mental health needs and forensic risk through a combination of individual and group evidenced-based interventions. The post holder will also have the opportunity to work with the wider psychology team within secure services.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to Forensic Psychological Services by supporting qualified psychologists in the undertaking and delivery of a range of clinical and research based tasks.
• Co-facilitate a range of group therapy programmes, as well as providing support to qualified staff in the planning and development of clinical treatment.
• Play a key role in completing service level audit projects as part of quality and developmental initiatives.
• Liaise with allied professionals, contribute to the sharing of psychological knowledge, and participate in case discussions.
• Attend clinical meetings, participate in departmental forums, and opportunities to shadow other team members.
• Undertake clinically related administration under the direction and management of an experienced Psychologist.

Qualifications and Experience

• Degree from a BPS accredited course in psychology (2:1 or above).
• Enthusiastic and committed graduate with an interest in developing clinical skills in a forensic/forensic mental health setting.

Additional Information

All work will take place under the direction and management of an experienced Psychologist. There will be a requirement to complete clinically related administration. There will be opportunities to observe assessments, group interventions, and contribute to clinical planning and development. The advert closes on Thursday 18 Sep 2025.