KMPT has an exciting opportunity for an experienced mental health nurse to work with the WK and Medway Rough Sleeper Initiative service, which is expanding to include the Gravesham area. The team collaborates closely with borough councils to enhance homelessness services for vulnerable rough sleepers and those at risk of sleeping on the streets.
The project aims to address the ongoing needs of vulnerable rough sleepers who have fallen out of services or refuse traditional support and housing pathways. Many of these individuals have chaotic lives, a history of offending, substance use, and exclusion from mainstream services. With estimates suggesting that 40%-80% of the rough sleeping population live with mental illness, addressing this need is critical, especially considering the average age of death for rough sleepers is 43.
The post holder must hold a full, valid UK driving licence and have access to a vehicle for work purposes, unless disabled as defined by the Equality Act 2010.
Responsibilities include:
1. Carrying out outreach with homelessness staff to identify unmet mental health needs and making referrals.
2. Visiting individuals in supported accommodation or general needs housing to assess mental health support needs.
3. Fast-tracking individuals into primary care services when appropriate.
4. Advising colleagues on best practices regarding mental health support.
5. Participating in bi-monthly rough sleeper counts during early morning hours.
6. Attending operational groups and panels to optimize housing resource allocation for rough sleepers.
Join us in the Garden of England, where we offer professional development opportunities alongside a high quality of life.
We are Kent and Medway NHS and Social Care Partnership Trust (KMPT), serving 1.8 million people across Kent and Medway, with services extending to Sussex and Surrey. Rated 'Good' by the CQC, we care for over 2,000 hospital patients and 54,000 community service users annually. Employing over 3,800 staff from 66 nationalities, we are committed to diversity and excellent care. Our team is dedicated, compassionate, and vital to our success.
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