Overview
This is an exciting opportunity to join a newly established Mental Health Crisis Assessment Service (MHCAS) within the First Response service, at a key stage in its development. The MHCAS at Chester will be a 6-month pilot initially until 30th June and provides a 24/7 voluntary, safe and comfortable setting for up to 4 informal patients to receive an extended assessment and decision-making service.
The MHCAS aims to reduce admissions to acute inpatient wards by conducting robust extended assessments for patients identified as requiring the acute care pathway. Assessments are needs-based and intervention-focused with the main purpose of supporting the individual in the most appropriate setting. MHCAS is underpinned by values of compassion, respect, collaboration, and person-centred care. It offers a unique opportunity for Band 4 clinical support workers to contribute to shaping its culture, clinical pathways, and ways of working from the outset. The post holder will embed these values into day-to-day practice, ensuring individuals in crisis feel heard, supported, and treated with dignity and respect.
Responsibilities
* Work as a Band 4 practitioner within a multi-disciplinary Mental Health Crisis Assessment Service (MHCAS), supporting the delivery of timely, high-quality care for individuals presenting in crisis.
* Work under the direction and supervision of registered practitioners, contributing to assessment, engagement, risk management, and care planning.
* Support service delivery across pathways as part of the Urgent Care Mental Health First Response model, including Emergency Departments, Crisis Triage and Response Services, Crisis Line/First Response, Liaison Psychiatry, Crisis Resolution and Home Treatment Teams, inpatient services, community teams, Street Triage, and Liaison and Diversion services.
* Work flexibly across the First Response model to support effective system flow, reduce unnecessary Emergency Department waits, and promote safe alternatives to admission where appropriate.
About Cheshire and Wirral Partnership (CWP)
CWP provides health and care services for a population of over one million people, including mental health, learning disability, community physical health and all-age disability care, as well as GP services. We employ around 4,500 staff across 73 sites with services across Wirral, Cheshire, and additional locations. We are rated as Outstanding for Caring by the Care Quality Commission, with a Good overall rating.
Requirements and Values
* Band 4 practitioner with the ability to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team and follow the First Response model.
* Commitment to a compassionate, person-centred approach aligned with the Trust’s Values.
* Ability to engage in assessment, risk management, and care planning for individuals in crisis.
* Flexibility to work across different pathways and settings as required.
Support and Benefits
We offer a Prepare to Care (P2C) induction programme with up to 3 weeks of training. New starters commence in post on one fixed start date each month. We are an inclusive employer with various recognition schemes. DBS costs are deducted from salary following appointment, with an option to enrol in the DBS Update Service (£16 per year).
How to Apply
Please download a copy of the job description for full details of responsibilities. Our recruitment processes are values-based and assess both competence and fit with the Trust’s values. If you need support completing your application, contact our recruitment team at cwp.recruitment@nhs.net or 01244 393100. Applicants are advised to apply early as applications may cause the vacancy to close before the advertised date. The advert closes on Sunday 8 Feb 2026.
#J-18808-Ljbffr