Overview
The Initial Response Service (IRS) launched in the Bay in 2023 and has consistently demonstrated itself to be an integral part of secondary mental health services; we have improved access to mental health services for individuals who need it, while reducing demands on care and treatment delivery services. In the most recent CQC report, the IRS was identified as a source of positive change in how mental health services are delivered in Lancashire and South Cumbria.
Responsibilities
In the IRS your skills and expertise will be in assessing patients at the point of referral and identifying what service will best meet their needs moving forwards. The spectrum of mental health needs varies significantly; you will be able to offer advice and guidance for mild to moderate mental health issues and ways this can be managed and improved. Equally, you will have the ability to respond to urgent referrals with more acute needs and higher risks in the community.
- Use your skills to triage and assess individuals with varying degrees of mental health difficulties over the phone and/or face‑to‑face in the community.
- Identify community services that are most appropriate for presenting need (third sector, CMHT, HBTT, and Talking Therapies).
- Act as shift lead, screening referrals and prioritising them based on your clinical judgment of risk and need.
- Work alongside the police to support patients and implement care when they are at risk of being held under s.136 of the MHA.
- Operate in a fast‑paced environment with a supportive, developing team.
Qualifications
We want to hear from practitioners who are experienced in the field of mental health, and its care and treatment pathways (including third sector service). We need confident practitioners with an ability to assess risk and respond to it appropriately in a fast‑paced environment. Experience in risk assessment and crisis management is essential.
Diversity & Inclusion
LSCFT values diversity and inclusion, recognising that talent from varied backgrounds creates a flexible, creative, and effective workforce. We actively challenge discrimination and welcome applications from all, regardless of age, disability (including those with experience of accessing or caring for someone who has accessed mental health or learning disability services), ethnicity, gender, religion, belief, or sexual orientation. We particularly encourage applications from under‑represented groups. We also welcome individuals with lived experience relevant to the role or service area, as your insight brings authenticity to our services.
Benefits & Working Patterns
LSCFT supports flexible working; we believe that a positive work/life balance benefits NHS employees through improved health and wellbeing. Working patterns considered include term time, part time, compressed hours and flexi‑time. The role offers a fast‑paced environment with a supportive, developing team.
Application Deadline
This advert closes on Tuesday 28 Apr 2026.
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