Job Summary
We are looking for an experienced Children’s Mental Health Practitioner to join the Canvey Island PCN for a 12‑month fixed term.
Background
As part of the NHS long‑term plan, local areas were asked to realign community mental health services with primary care networks, creating new and integrated models of primary and community mental health care.
PCN Aims
* Have a key co‑ordinating role at the heart of the GP practices and be a fully integrated member of the multi‑disciplinary team with regards to response and management pathways
* Provide a combined consultation, advice, triage and liaison function in accordance with agreed protocols
* Support children and young people with mild to moderate mental health problems through evidence‑based interventions
Role Overview
The Mental Health Senior Practitioner will be responsible for assessment and caseload management within the GP PCN. They will triage cases, complete a full assessment and manage their workstream, maintaining a caseload of CYP with mild to moderate mental health needs. The post holder will work closely with the operation manager and Clinical & Strategic Lead to ensure effective delivery of the PCN initiative in Essex.
Core Clinical Responsibilities
* Work as part of a multi‑disciplinary team in a patient‑facing role to assess and manage patients using expert knowledge
* Assist in the assessment of new patients and produce and complete individual care plans
* Provide specialist clinical support and advice to young people with mental health difficulties
* Support engagement with appropriate services and treatment, which may include onward referral to secondary mental health services or signposting to voluntary services and support groups
* Educate and involve family members and others in treatment as necessary
* Plan day‑to‑day workloads and follow departmental policies, procedures and guidelines
* Triage and receive referrals and directed patients from within the PCN
* Communicate effectively with patients, recognising the need for varying methods of communication to overcome different levels of understanding, cultural background and preferred ways of communicating
Location
* Oaklands Surgery
* The Community Practice
* The Island Surgery
* Third Avenue Surgery
* Canvey Village Surgery
* The Hawkesbury Road Surgery
Probationary Period
This post will be subject to a probationary period. Internal applicants are exempt from the probationary period (unless you are an internal applicant currently part way through a probationary period or currently a bank member of staff).
Certificates of Sponsorship
Although we are a registered sponsor organisation, we are unable to offer sponsorship for all job roles. Please check your eligibility under the UKVI points‑based system.
High‑Cost Area Supplement
This post also attracts payment for a High Cost Area Supplement of 5% of the basic salary (minimum payment of £1,192 and a maximum payment of £2,011 per annum pro rata).
Flexible Working
At NELFT we recognise that many staff have busy and demanding commitments outside of their working life and are unable to commit to the traditional shift patterns. We are proud to offer a variety of flexible working options which can be discussed on an individual basis after an offer has been made.
Development and Support
Development of our staff is key to running our service effectively, and we will invest our time in your professional development. If you are currently working outside of the NHS or in secondary care, you will receive training and comprehensive support to get you off to a flying start.
Application Close Date
This advert closes on Tuesday 28 Oct 2025.
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