Closing date: 07 May 2026
We are looking for a Mental Health Practitioner to join the Dorset Integrated Non-Custodial Service, providing mental health assessments and advice to Dorset Police custody suites and Magistrates’ Courts. The role is based primarily in the Bournemouth custody suite with occasional work in Weymouth. The service operates 7 days a week, with shifts of 7am–7pm in Bournemouth and 8am–4pm in Weymouth.
Main duties of the job
- Provide mental health assessments, advice and identify robust care pathways for individuals where a potential mental health and/or learning disability need has been identified.
- Provide the police with written information pertaining to the individual in a timely fashion to inform disposal.
- Work closely and build links with all referring agencies within the custody suite, acting as a single point of contact for mental health.
- Make referrals to appropriate services and agencies.
- Where diversion is indicated, facilitate mental health act assessments at the police station in conjunction with the Dorset HealthCare assessment teams.
- Provide specialist advice and service to the custody suites where indicated.
Employment in this post requires an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, which the Trust will cover. Applicants who subscribe to the DBS update service can present a valid DBS certificate instead of a new check.
Applicants requiring current Skilled Worker sponsorship to work in the UK are ineligible to apply.
Person Specification
Knowledge, Skills and Training
- Registered Mental Health or Learning Disability Nurse, Occupational Therapist or Social Worker.
- Membership of a relevant Professional Body.
- Recent previous experience working with people in the criminal justice system.
Job Specific Experience
- Experience at Practitioner Band 5 level.
- Ability to prioritise and organise workload effectively.
- Demonstrable knowledge of assessment and therapeutic interventions.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975. A submission for Disclosure must be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service to check for any previous criminal convictions.
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