Overview
We’re looking for an experienced mental health nurse leader to become the Ward Manager of our newly redesigned CAMHS inpatient unit, reopening in Autumn 2026. This isn’t an opportunity to inherit an established ward — it’s an opportunity to help create one. Following significant investment, service redesign and co-production with young people, families and staff, we’re building a modern inpatient service focused on therapeutic care, positive outcomes and creating an exceptional place to work. If you’ve ever wanted the chance to shape culture, influence practice and build a team around a shared vision from the very beginning, this is that opportunity.
Why this role stands out
* Lead the reopening of a newly redesigned CAMHS inpatient service
* Build and develop a brand-new ward culture from the ground up
* Work alongside a dedicated Band 7 Clinical Nurse Specialist and experienced Matron
* Shape workforce development, quality improvement and service innovation
* Influence care across the wider CAMHS acute pathway
* Join a service investing heavily in trauma-informed and autism-aware care
Who can apply
* Experienced Band 6 leaders ready for their first Ward Manager role
* Existing Ward Managers looking for a fresh challenge
* Senior nurses with inpatient, acute, PICU, CAMHS, crisis or complex mental health experience
The role
As Ward Manager you will provide overall leadership of the inpatient ward, creating a culture where young people receive safe, compassionate and purposeful care and where staff feel supported to thrive.
You'll lead:
* Staffing and workforce development
* Clinical governance and quality improvement
* Service development and innovation
* Staff wellbeing and retention
* Safeguarding and risk management
* Partnership working with families and external agencies
About the service
The redesigned service includes:
* Purposeful admissions with early review points
* Seven-day therapeutic programming
* Strong links with COAST and community CAMHS services
* Trauma-informed and autism-aware practice
* Enhanced MDT working and safe staffing
What we're looking for
You’ll be someone who:
* Leads with compassion and confidence
* Enjoys developing people and building teams
* Can balance quality, safety and operational delivery
* Wants to influence how services are designed and delivered
* Believes young people deserve outstanding inpatient care
What we offer
* Opportunity to help shape a brand-new service before opening
* Comprehensive induction with the wider new team
* Strong support from senior nursing and operational leaders
* Excellent CPD and leadership development opportunities
* NHS Pension Scheme and Agenda for Change benefits
Most Ward Manager roles ask you to maintain an existing service. This one asks you to help build the future of CAMHS inpatient care in Sussex.
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