Job summary
Exciting opportunities have arisen (9 months - fixed term) to support our High Dependency Rehabilitation and Recovery Ward within adult mental health services in Durham and Darlington. The successful candidates would be expected to cover a 24hr shift pattern, 37.5hrs per week, which is broken down into 12-hour long day or night shift.
The post holders should be both positive and passionate about the care of those with acute mental health needs and willing to carry out personal development and training to improve their knowledge and skill base in this area of care.
We pride ourselves in providing a high standard of care within a multi-disciplinary approach, which is recovery focused. We believe we are progressive and forward thinking, seeking to improve our service. We offer varied training opportunities and regularly hold in house training sessions to support our team and individuals' development.
Applicants must ensure that prior to applying they have agreement from their current line manager that they can be released on a secondment basis. In the event that permanent funding is secured for this post the successful applicant will be confirmed in post on a permanent basis.
You must have the Right to Work in the UK in order to be successfully appointed to this role. Please note, this role does not meet the required eligibility criteria for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa and therefore the Trust is unable to offer sponsorship for this particular role.
Main duties of the job
Willow Ward is a rehabilitation ward consisting of 15 NHS beds. 10 male and 5 female
The successful candidate will empower and support our patients to aid their recovery in their mental health and support in equipping them with the skills they need to live independently.
The successful candidates must have completed the Diploma in Health and Social Care Level 2 or equivalent. Candidates must also have Literacy and Numeracy level 2 or equivalent and must complete the Trust Healthcare Assistant competencies within their probationary period (first 6 months in role).
About us
The post holder must:
Comply with the terms of the contract of employment, the Staff Compact and the Trust's Statement of Values and Behaviours.
Be aware of, comply with and keep up to date with all Trust Policies and Procedures and other communications relevant to the role.
Maintain registration with the appropriate professional body where applicable and comply with the relevant code of conduct and standards of professional practice.
Fully participate in management, clinical and professional supervision sessions relevant to the role, as required by the Trust.
Fully participate in annual appraisal and appraisal reviews.
Maintain up to date knowledge and competency in the skills required to perform safely and effectively in the role. Undertake relevant training (including statutory and mandatory training) and be responsible for personal development agreed with the line manager and in line with the requirements of the AFC Knowledge and Skills Framework.
The post holder must:
Comply with the Trust's Information Governance Policies and maintain confidentiality of information at all times in line with the requirements of the Data Protection Act.
Comply with the Trust's Health and Safety Policy and risk management procedures and report as necessary any untoward incident or hazardous event in accordance with local procedure.
Details
Date posted
16 October 2025
Pay scheme
Agenda for change
Band
Band 3
Salary
£24,625 to £25,674 a year per annum
Contract
Fixed term
Duration
9 months
Working pattern
Full-time
Reference number
346-DDA-066-25-A
Job locations
West Park Hospital
Darlington
DL2 2TS
Job description
Job responsibilities
Please see the attached Job Description and Person Specification which outlines the main duties and responsibilities of the role.
Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential
1. Diploma in Health and Social Care Level 2 or equivalent
2. Care Certificate
3. Key skills in Literacy and Numeracy Level 2
4. Successful completion of Trust's full HCA Framework within 6-month probationary period
Skills
Essential
5. Effective verbal and written communication skills
6. Time management and ability to prioritise effectively
7. Competency in record keeping (within agreed timescales)
8. Approved techniques in physical intervention (within agreed timescale)
Desirable
9. Competency in ECG and venepuncture
Experience
Essential
10. Previous experience as a Band 2/3 HCA or equivalent in a care environment.
Desirable
11. Previous experience of working with people with mental/social health needs