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

Essex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust; Luton; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare organization in Luton seeks an Assistant Psychologist for a one-year Fixed Term Contract. The role offers experience in clinical or forensic psychology, with opportunities to observe and facilitate treatment within a multidisciplinary team. Candidates must hold a BPS-accredited psychology degree (2:1 or above). Applications close on 18 Sep 2025.

Qualifications

• Enthusiastic graduate interested in developing clinical skills in a forensic/acute adult mental health setting.
• Degree from a BPS accredited course in psychology (2:1 and above).

Responsibilities

• Support qualified psychologists in clinical and research tasks.
• Co-facilitate group therapy programmes.
• Assist in audits and quality initiatives.
• Liaise with allied professionals and participate in discussions.
• Complete clinically related administration under supervision.

Skills

Enthusiastic commitment

Clinical skill development

Education

BPS-accredited degree 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.

Position

We currently have a vacancy for an Assistant Psychologist to join Forensic Psychological Services, 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.

Team and Work Environment

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 undertaking and delivering a range of clinical and research-based tasks.
• Co-facilitate a range of group therapy programmes and provide support to qualified staff in planning and development of clinical treatment.
• Lead or assist in completing service level audits and quality and developmental initiatives.
• Liaise with allied professionals, share psychological knowledge, and participate in case discussions.
• Attend clinical meetings, departmental forums, and shadow other team members as appropriate.
• Complete clinically related administration under supervision.

Qualifications and Requirements

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

Please see the attached job description document for further details.

This advert closes on Thursday 18 Sep 2025.