Job Summary
We are seeking Band 3 Health Care Assistants to join our Adult Acute inpatient ward in Torquay (Haytor Ward). You will quickly become part of a friendly and supportive multi-disciplinary team where you will be using your skills and experience to deliver a package of care to people on our psychiatric intensive care ward that helps them on their road to recovery. We passionately believe that with our help, people can improve their mental health to recover independence and return to their local community.
About Haytor
Haytor is a 16 bed adult acute ward based on the grounds of Torbay Hospital. Haytor provides care for men and women with severe mental health needs.
About You
Were looking for a Health Care Assistant, you may already be working in a psychiatric setting or have an interest in working in this area. Above all, you will be passionate about providing the highest level of care to the people who use our service. Working as part of a multi-disciplinary team will mean you will need excellent communication skills. As you will be based on a ward that operates 24/7, you will be comfortable with working on a shift basis for which you will qualify for unsocial enhancements in addition to your basic pay.
Main duties of the job
* To assist multi-disciplinary team members in the delivery of care and treatment to people using services. The care provided will encompass social, physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual needs of the individuals.
* Be responsible for undertaking practical procedures under the supervision of trained nursing staff.
Responsibilities & duties
* Communication & Working Relationships: To communicate effectively with people using services taking into account any communication difficulties they may have and responding appropriately; to form and maintain therapeutic relationships with individuals and other professionals and agencies; to maintain accurate and complete records; to communicate in a professional manner; to take, record and report telephone messages; to provide and receive routine information; participate in ward/team meetings.
* Planning & Organisation: To be involved in assessment and implementation of individual treatment programmes and recovery plans; prioritise tasks and manage shift workload; participate in flexible shift system (days, evenings, nights, weekends, holidays); may work in other areas as directed.
* Judgement & Analysis: Be aware of own limits and competencies; participate in risk assessment and management; observe Health and Safety; be punctual and professional.
* Patient/Client Care, Treatment & Therapy: Be fully aware of each individual’s recovery plan; participate in delivery of therapeutic interventions; provide support with daily living skills; assist in all aspects of physical nursing care; recognise signs of abuse and know escalation procedures; maintain dignity and wellbeing; monitor nutritional needs; escort individuals as directed; aid access to benefits and welfare rights; participate in MDT meetings; keep accurate records; report progress and difficulties to Nurse-in-Charge.
* Policy, Service, Research, Innovation & Improvement: complete core training and policy compliance; participate in service development and audits; maintain infection control standards.
* Finance, Equipment & Other Resources: support safety and cleanliness of the environment; manage equipment and supplies; follow Trust policies regarding patient property and finances.
* Supervision, Leadership & Management: participate in supervision and annual appraisal; support student learning.
* Information Resources & Administrative Duties: use IT systems and keep information confidential; manage rosters and learning systems.
* Freedom to Act: work within standard procedures and use initiative with supervision.
* Other Tasks: contribute to a safe therapeutic environment; take on duties as directed; maintain fitness and safety training; declare if capable of Physical Intervention techniques if required; act to protect safety; work within competency.
Qualifications & Experience
Essential
* Care Certificate within the first 6 months of employment (or evidence of equivalent approved by the appointing manager); if not, trainee position until completion.
* Previous experience in caring or mental health settings is desirable.
* Knowledge of safeguarding principles; IT skills; ability to form professional therapeutic relationships; good communication and listening skills; ability to work in a team; maintain personal boundaries; plan work and manage records; leadership and feedback abilities; ability to provide practical support with daily living activities; respond to emergencies; maintain confidentiality and demonstrate compassion.
Desirable
* NVQ level 3 or QCF Level 3 in Health and Social Care or equivalent; other relevant training.
* Knowledge of mental health and physical health presentations; problem solving skills.
Experience
* Essential: Previous employment or experience in caring or mental health services.
* Desirable: Prior care experience with people who have Mental Health difficulties.
Qualifications
* Care Certificate as above; NVQ/QCF Level 3 as above if applicable.
Other Details
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1975 and requires disclosure to the Disclosure and Barring Service.
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