Job Description

Head of Mental Health Services - 60,000 per annum plus 4,200 car allowance



We are seeking an experienced and passionate Registered Mental Health Nurse to develop, lead, implement and drive our mental health strategy across our care home group. The Head of Mental Health Services will also support the Quality Team to deliver continuous improvement in quality standards, understand the root cause for incidents and give support, advice and solutions to the Operational Team in managing residents with Mental Health difficulties. This will be achieved through effective partnership working with the wider Quality Team and Operations Team. This is a pivotal role that will ensure the highest standards of mental health care for our residents.

Key Duties:

Develop and implement a comprehensive mental health strategy that aligns with Orchard Care Homes values and goals



Develop and implement a mental health first aider program across the portfolio



Design and deliver training programs to enhance the skills and knowledge of staff in mental health care



Oversee the governance of mental health services, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and standards



Clinical oversight and review of all referrals into our homes with mental health issues



Ensure the operational team facilitate safe admissions into our homes



Provide strong leadership and support to the Mental Health Team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement



Subject matter expert in current Mental Health best practice and standards



Work in accordance with relevant legal and ethical requirements e.g. Mental Health Act, NICE guidelines, Equality Act, Health and Safety at Work Act and appropriate codes of professional conduct and practise (e.g. NMC)



Work closely with colleagues within the quality team, other departments and external partners to ensure integrated and holistic care for residents



Provide wellbeing interventions, advice, and guidance and support for residents experiencing mental health difficulties to enable them to live meaningful lives within the care home setting



Provide emergency responses to residents experiencing mental health crisis, providing effective liaison between key stakeholders in supporting the residents and colleagues



Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of mental health services, implementing improvements as needed



Ownership of the mental health care documentation process ensuring it meets current legislation and works in conjunction with the Head of Quality and Governance to provide holistic care documentation



Support RCA reporting and ensure the follow up of recommended actions in the operational line



Liaise with external agencies such as quality regulators, safeguarding leads, local authorities, CCGs, Health Watch, and other stakeholders to assist with quality improvement as required

Qualifications and Training:

Registered Mental Health nurse, ideally with a nursing degree



Proven experience in a senior mental health role, preferably within an older people's care setting



Evidence of further professional development in relation to current Mental Health initiatives care, management or quality



Experience and/or qualification in Positive Behavior Support or equivalent is desirable



An understanding of the UK regulatory framework and experience working with regulators and safeguarding teams

What we Offer:

Salary of 60,000 per annum plus 4,200 car allowance



25 days of annual leave plus 8 bank holidays



Excellent training and progression opportunities, from day one, with career pathways to enable you to grow and develop



Recognition schemes, such as 'Making a Difference' and an annual awards ceremony



Access to Blue Light Discount Card & App



Access to our 24/7 Employee Support Hub offering confidential support on personal and professional issues



Orchard Care Homes



Orchard Care Homes has a network of 23 care homes and has been providing care for older people for over 15 years. We are committed to being at the heart of the local community and delivering the same level of care that we would all wish for our loved ones. We are proud to share with you that all 23 care homes have been rated Good by CQC.



indschmhs