Overview
Community Mental Health Practitioner role at Midlands Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust. We are seeking a compassionate, dynamic, and experienced practitioner who is a qualified Mental Health Nurse, Social Worker, Occupational Therapist, or equivalent, registered with the appropriate professional body to join our multidisciplinary team supporting children and young people (CYP) with Autism (diagnosed or under assessment) who are experiencing mental health crises or complex emotional needs.
This position offers an opportunity to deliver intensive and tailored support to a highly vulnerable group, improving mental health and emotional wellbeing, and supporting positive family and community engagement. You will assess needs and deliver safe and effective interventions for CYP and families in their communities and in places of safety, working to avoid hospital admission and manage complex risks, in accordance with recognised clinical guidance. Co-ordinate the care of the CYP on caseload and work as part of the MDT and with wider teams to meet the needs of CYP and families. Provide advice, support, and supervision to other healthcare professionals.
Responsibilities
* Deliver extended and intensive mental health assessment and support to CYP with Autism (diagnosed, under assessment, or presenting traits).
* Conduct comprehensive assessments with CYP and families, including risk management, and deliver effective treatment interventions.
* Play a key role in crisis response, brief interventions, and ongoing intensive support, with a focus on avoiding hospital admissions and ensuring smooth transitions between services.
* Support the development and implementation of Wellbeing and Recovery Action Plans (WRAP), tailored to individual needs and strengths.
* Provide consultation, advice, and signposting to external professionals and carers, particularly in relation to risk and urgency.
Qualifications
Essential criteria
* First level (Degree or higher diploma) professional qualification in mental health nursing, social work, therapy, or related field with demonstrable knowledge and post-qualification experience.
* Evidence of extensive post-qualification experience with individuals who have complex mental health needs and Autism in the community.
* Experience of working with people who have difficulty engaging with services and have complex mental health needs.
Desirable criteria
* ADOS and/or ADIR training or experience as part of an MDT Autism assessment.
* Experience of working with people with neurodevelopmental needs such as Autism, ADHD, or Learning Disability.
* Experience of working in a crisis/intensive support model.
Experience
Essential criteria
* Experience of working with people who have difficulty engaging with services and have complex mental health needs.
* Experience in managing mental health issues/referrals/advice, both face-to-face and virtually (including telephone), especially in high-demand or highly stressful situations.
Desirable criteria
* Experience in a crisis/intensive support model.
* Experience in CAMHS (not excluding if lacking explicit CAMHS experience).
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