Job Summary
We seek a dedicated and compassionate Mental Health Support Worker to join our Psychiatry Liaison team at Dorset County Hospital, a mental health service based at a general hospital. The role involves working within an adult liaison psychiatry service that provides assessment and treatment for those experiencing an episode of mental ill‑health in an acute hospital setting.
We're looking for individuals driven to make a tangible impact on the lives of those living with a mental health crisis. Key qualities include passion, empathy, strong communication and excellent teamwork. Prior experience is advantageous but not required, as comprehensive induction training and ongoing support will be provided. There are ample opportunities for career advancement within our organization.
Applications from candidates requiring current Healthcare worker sponsorship to work in the UK are unfortunately ineligible for this position.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
* Work effectively with the multidisciplinary team, Acute Hospital colleagues, other mental health services and external supporting agencies.
* Participate in team meetings, case presentations, reflective practice and receive regular group and individual supervision.
* Obtain and maintain an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, which the Trust will cover the cost for. Applicants with an up‑to‑date DBS certificate may present it instead of undergoing a new check.
Application Advice
The main duties and responsibilities for this role are outlined in the attached job description and person specification. When completing your application, please ensure your supporting statement reflects the criteria set out in these documents by showing how your experience and skills apply to this post.
We understand that using AI can be a useful and supportive tool when completing your application. However, we have seen an increase in the over‑reliance of AI tools which negatively impacts applications by removing candidates’ individuality. If you do use AI, it should enhance your application and not create the supporting statement in its entirety. If we suspect you have used AI to create your supporting statement and this does not match your experience, we may withdraw your application.
As part of our vision to have a skilled, diverse and caring workforce, Dorset HealthCare offers support for people entering work. We offer an employability service to support individuals with application writing, interview skills and other employment support. If you would like or know of anyone who would value this support, please let us know.
About Us
At Dorset HealthCare we’re on a mission to empower people to make the most of their lives through our outstanding, joined‑up healthcare services. We run 12 community hospitals, specialist inpatient facilities and a wide range of integrated community and mental health services for almost 800,000 people.
Our Trust was rated ‘Outstanding’ by the CQC in 2019, 95 % of patients report a good or very good experience of our services and 89 % of staff feel they can make a difference. We believe in equal opportunities and celebrate diversity, welcoming everyone and encouraging authenticity.
Job Details
* Date posted: 12 November 2025
* Pay scheme: Agenda for Change
* Band: Band 3
* Salary: £24 937 to £26 598 a year p.a.
* Contract: Permanent
* Working pattern: Full‑time
* Reference number: 152-M363.25
* Location: Dorset County Hospital, Williams Avenue, Dorchester, DT1 2JY
Person Specification – Essential
* Demonstrable skills in written and spoken English to a standard which enables the post holder to carry out the full range of duties and responsibilities of the role effectively.
* Basic IT keyboard skills, normally obtained through practice or practical training.
* Prior experience in mental health services (preferred but not mandatory).
* Calm under pressure, able to cope with difficult and personally challenging situations such as receiving personally directed abuse.
* Able to work effectively as part of a team; to work independently in the Emergency department or on an Acute Hospital ward and to raise concerns appropriately.
* Positive attitude, ability to engage and motivate others, use initiative and problem‑solving skills.
* Flexible, able to adapt to changing circumstances.
* Professional conduct and represent the organisation positively.
Person Specification – Desirable
* Previous experience of working in mental health services.
* Experience working with children and adults with additional needs and associated mental health problems / neuro‑developmental conditions.
* Experience working with a range of statutory and non‑statutory agencies.
* Own initiative and problem‑solving skills.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and requires a Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Employer Details
Employer name: Dorset HealthCare University NHS Foundation Trust
Address: Dorset County Hospital, Williams Avenue, Dorchester, DT1 2JY
Website: https://www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/work-for-us
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