Community Mental Health Practitioner

NHS; Bedford; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

A community health organization in Bedford seeks a dedicated Mental Health Nurse to join their team. The role involves managing a caseload, working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team, and administering IM injections. Candidates should be registered with NMC and possess experience in mental health services. This position offers opportunities for professional development and a commitment to inclusive practices.

Benefits

Career development opportunities

Regular nurses forums

Training courses

Qualifications

• Post-qualification experience within mental health services.
• Experience in a multidisciplinary environment and community settings.
• Knowledge of Mental Health Act 1983 and amendments.

Responsibilities

• Oversee caseloads and work as part of an integrated multidisciplinary team.
• Liaise with all relevant agencies and manage complex situations.
• Administer IM injections confidently and competently.

Skills

Independent practice

Communication

Problem-solving

Organizational skills

Education

Qualified Mental Health Nurse registered with NMC

Evidence of Continuous Professional Development

Tools

Service user data systems

Job description

Overview

Bedford Community Mental Health teams (part of East London Foundation Trust) are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Mental Health Nurse to join our forward-thinking and dynamic team. You will be working collaboratively with secondary mental health services, primary care mental health link practitioners, primary care services, and the voluntary and private sector to contribute to a Recovery-focused model of care.

Main duties

You will hold a caseload and work within the principles of the agreed model of care for the service as outlined in the operational policy. You will work as an autonomous practitioner within an integrated multidisciplinary team, including assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of care, and liaise with all agencies involved with the client. You will be confident and competent in administering IM injections and aware of Medicines Management Guidance & Associated policies.

This role offers access to career development opportunities, including:

• Advanced Clinical Practice training and approved mental health practitioner course
• Psychosocial intervention trainings
• Regular nurses forums and seminars to share ideas, improve practice and meet CPD requirements

About us

Our mission is to make a positive difference to people’s lives by improving quality of life. Our values are: We Care, We Respect, We are Inclusive. We welcome applicants from all sections of the community to ensure our workforce reflects the population we serve.

Details

Date posted: 05 September 2025

Pay scheme: Agenda for Change

Band: Band 6

Salary: £38,682 to £46,580 per annum

Contract: Permanent

Working pattern: Full-time

Reference number: 363-BED6678152-B

Location: Bedford Adult Community Mental Health Service, Florence Ball House, Bedford MK40 2NT

Job responsibilities

Please refer to the job description and person specification attached to this vacancy or contact us for details.

The post holder will oversee caseloads, work as part of an integrated multidisciplinary team, and liaise with all relevant agencies. The role requires competence in administering IM injections and knowledge of Medicines Management Guidance and related policies.

Person Specification

Educational/ Qualification

• Qualified Mental Health Nurse registered with NMC
• Evidence of Continuous Professional Development

Experience

• Post-qualification experience within mental health services
• Experience in a multidisciplinary environment and community settings
• Experience within NHS/Local Authority environments and understanding of related policies

Knowledge/Skills

• Understanding of mental disorders and treatment options
• Knowledge of Mental Health Act 1983 and amendments
• Knowledge of NHS & Community Care Act, Care Act, Mental Capacity Act, and related legislation
• Ability to assess, manage complex/high-risk situations; good report-writing and documentation skills
• Ability to coordinate professionals and services; ability to develop care plans in partnership with service users and carers
• Strong communication, decision-making, problem-solving, and organisational skills
• IT skills and experience with service user data systems

Personal Qualities

• Team player who can negotiate and lead others while respecting diverse views
• Independent, motivated, and open to guidance when required
• Committed to equal opportunities and anti-discriminatory practice
• Patient-centered, compassionate, respectful, and inclusive
• Commitment to leadership and change management

Additional Requirements

• Car driver essential; ability to travel between Trust sites
• Full driving licence
• Flexible working to meet service needs

Security and Registration

Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check required. Applicants must have current UK professional registration with the NMC. UK sponsorship and overseas checks guidance available as applicable.