Mental Health Practitioner in LADS

As a Criminal Justice Mental Health Practitioner within the Liaison and Diversion Service, you will work across police custody and court environments providing timely, holistic assessments of mental health needs and other vulnerabilities for people who come into contact with the criminal justice system.

You will undertake comprehensive psychosocial assessments, identify risks and unmet needs, and develop appropriate care pathways to ensure individuals are linked with relevant health, social care and community services. The role requires the ability to work autonomously, make sound clinical decisions and complete rapid assessments in fast-paced environments.

A key aspect of the role is working closely with criminal justice agencies, including police officers, custody staff, courts, probation services and legal representatives. You will act as a specialist resource, providing advice and guidance on mental health, learning disability and other vulnerabilities that may impact an individual's involvement in the criminal justice system.

You will prepare written screening and health and social circumstances reports and may be required to present information or professional opinions to courts when appropriate. You will also support the development and review of referral pathways, helping to ensure that vulnerable individuals can access the right support at the right time.

Working closely with health, social care and voluntary sector partners, you will promote recovery, social inclusion and person-centred care. You will undertake risk assessment and risk management planning, support safeguarding processes and ensure relevant information is shared appropriately to promote safe and effective care.

The role offers opportunities to contribute to service development, staff training, clinical audit and quality improvement initiatives. You will receive regular supervision and have access to specialist learning opportunities through both the Liaison and Diversion Service and the wider Forensic Service.

This is a rewarding opportunity for a skilled and compassionate practitioner who is passionate about reducing health inequalities, improving outcomes for vulnerable people and making a meaningful difference within the criminal justice system.

At Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, we're committed to supporting our employees with a range of benefits designed to enhance your professional and personal life. We offer:

Additionally, you'll gain access to our Blue Light Card, unlocking exclusive discounts on shopping, dining, and leisure activities, as well as NHS-specific perks to support you both inside and outside of work.

We are proud to foster a diverse, skilled, and inclusive workforce, and we encourage applications from all backgrounds.

Why Somerset? Somerset offers the perfect blend of idyllic countryside, outstanding areas of natural beauty, and breathtaking coastlines, with vibrant cities like Bristol, Bath, and Exeter just a short drive away - and only two hours to London.

The region is home to excellent educational facilities, and with affordable housing compared to other parts of the country, it's a great place to build both your career and your future.

Somerset truly has it all - the peaceful countryside and cosmopolitan city life, with something for everyone to enjoy.

Qualifications

Experience