We are excited to recruit for our newly redesigned Children & Young People's Inpatient Mental Health Unit in Haywards Heath, West Sussex, reopening in Autumn 2026. This role is part of a modern therapeutic service where young people receive purposeful, high‑quality care.
About the Unit
This inpatient service has been co‑designed with young people, families and staff, and features a recovery‑focused approach, a 7‑day therapeutic timetable, strong links with the Crisis Outreach Acute Support Team (COAST) and trainees in lived‑experience roles.
Main duties of the job
We are looking for an experienced Mental Health Nurse Leader who is forward‑thinking, energetic and creative, and committed to delivering excellent acute care for young people and their families. In this varied, dynamic role you will manage, develop and support our acute and crisis services, including a new 12‑bed inpatient unit, the COAST team and paediatric mental health liaison services. You will hold overall responsibility for quality, safety, culture and standards across the inpatient and crisis pathway, leading visible improvements in safety, safeguarding, restrictive practice and partnership working.
About us
Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust delivers specialist mental health, learning disability and neurodevelopmental services across Sussex. This post sits within our Specialist CAMHS Services, providing opportunities to gain experience across acute, crisis and community pathways.
What we can offer you
* The opportunity to be part of a newly reopened CAMHS inpatient unit
* A comprehensive induction programme with team training and therapeutic contribution
* A welcoming and supportive team culture with strong clinical leadership
* Structured preceptorship (where applicable) and high‑quality clinical supervision
* Access to CAMHS‑specific training and ongoing CPD
* Clear development and progression pathways into senior nursing roles
* NHS Pension Scheme and Agenda for Change benefits
Location
The unit is based in Haywards Heath, West Sussex, with on‑site parking and good transport links to London, across Sussex and close to Gatwick Airport.
Job responsibilities
As a senior clinical and operational leader, you will work closely with the Consultant psychiatrist, senior acute care MDT and operational managers to influence and lead a skilled multi‑disciplinary team. Key responsibilities include setting a cohesive culture, developing skills and capability, and aligning inpatient care with COAST and liaison teams.
Essential Qualifications
* Registered Mental Health or Learning Disability Nurse
* Degree‑level education and Masters‑level study
* Mentorship/ENB qualification
* Meeting NMC revalidation requirements
Experience
* Extensive experience as a Ward Manager or equivalent
* Strong background in relevant clinical area (e.g., mental health, learning disability)
* Experience managing staff, performance and supervision
* Skilled in risk assessment and governance
* Knowledge of key legislation (MHA, MCA, Safeguarding)
Skills
* Strong leadership and ability to influence at senior level
* Analytical skills for complex clinical, financial and performance data
* High‑level communication skills
* Competence with Microsoft Office
* Effective team working, motivation and project management
Values & Approach
* Committed to equality, diversity, dignity and respect
* Challenges discrimination and promotes inclusive practice
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post requires a Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service to check for any previous convictions, under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975.
Certificate of Sponsorship
Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled Worker sponsorship are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications.
UK Registration
Applicants must have current UK professional registration.
Employer Details
Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust – New CAMHS inpatient unit, Princess Royal Hospital, Lewes Rd, Haywards Heath, RH16 4EX, United Kingdom
Employer's website
https://www.sussexpartnership.nhs.uk/
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