Job summary
We have an exciting opportunity for a Mental Health Support Worker to join our mental health team at HMP Holme House, which is a Category B men's prison serving remand and sentenced prisoners.
Prison environments are one of the most challenging, yet rewarding places for healthcare professionals to work. If you're looking for a role where you can learn something new every day in an environment that never stands still, then this could be the opportunity for you.
This is an excellent opportunity for healthcare support worker / assistant whom have experience working within mental health services to join a team where you will get to develop a full range of psychiatric skills and interventions. Additionally, to the competency framework, we offer a comprehensive induction and workforce development plan.
Main duties of the job
Maintains safety, privacy and dignity of all patients in the delivery of patient centred care, recognising and respecting differences including spiritual and cultural beliefs.
Responsible for recognising the signs of patient harm, abuse or neglect, including poor clinical practice, identifying issues regarding the safeguarding of children who may be at risk and reporting all such concerns in accordance with Trust Safeguarding procedures.
Undertakes delegated activities within level of own competency, and with due regard to risk assessment, to assist with the implementation of intervention plans as part of the multidisciplinary team.
Completes patient assessment tools and accurately summarises within patient care records.
Identifies changes in patients' presentation and acts, reports and records appropriately.
Carries out ECG or venepuncture as required, if trained.
Assists in the provision of health education and advice on health promotion to patients and their carers.
Demonstrates safe breakaway techniques in the management of violence and aggression as required.
Where appropriate and with authorisation, acts as an advocate for patients/carers.
About us
This is an opportunity for an experienced support worker to join a busy team working in a rewarding environment where you will get to practice a full range of psychiatric nursing interventions.
We would welcome candidate contact to arrange a visit to the prison or an informal discussion.
Details
Date posted
30 December 2025
Pay scheme
Agenda for change
Band
Band 3
Salary
£24,937 to £26,598 a year per annum
Contract
Permanent
Working pattern
Full-time
Reference number
346-FMH-148-25-A
Job locations
HMP Holme House
Holme House Road
Stockton
TS18 2QU
Job description
Job responsibilities
This post is not open to trainees therefore the successful candidate must have completed the Diploma in Health and Social Care Level 2 or equivalent. Candidates must also have Literacy and Numeracy level 2 or equivalent and must complete the Trust Healthcare Assistant competencies within their probationary period (first 6 months in role).
Please refer to the attached job description and person specification for further detailed information to ensure that you meet the role criteria before applying.
Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential
1. Diploma in Health and Social Care level 2 or equivalent care certificate
2. Key skills in Literacy and Numeracy level 2
3. Care Certificate
4. Successful completion of Trust's full HCA Framework within 6-month probationary period
Experience
Essential
5. Previous experience as a Band 2/3 HCA or equivalent in a care environment. (Trainee post: no essential experience required)
Desirable
6. Previous experience of working with people with mental/social health needs or learning disabilities.
Knowledge
Essential
7. Basic understanding of key roles within the Criminal Justice System (within agreed timescale)
8. Basic understanding of person centred care
9. Basic understanding of risk assessment and management (within agreed timescale)
10. Awareness of legal frameworks including mental health legislation (within agreed timescale)