Autism Practitioner

Job overview

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Band 6 Autism Practitioner to join our Adult Autism (ASC) Services within the Community Care Division at Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust, working across Liverpool and Sefton.

We are looking for a motivated and skilled practitioner with a passion for improving people’s lives.

You will work within a supportive, experienced team to deliver high‑quality, person‑centred autism assessments and interventions in community settings.

Knowledge and experience of autism assessments is desirable, with support available to further develop specialist skills.

This role offers the opportunity to contribute to a service that values collaboration, compassion and high standards of care, making a real difference to those seeking autism assessments, autistic people and their families.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to interview to meet the panel and learn more about the service and role.

Main duties of the job

CLINICAL, MANAGERIAL, EDUCATION AND DEVELOPMENT

Manage a defined clinical caseload under the supervision of the Clinical Lead, delivering timely, high‑quality autism diagnostic assessments.

Support the multidisciplinary team with diagnostic processes, referral screening and clinical decision‑making.

Provide clear advice and information to referrers, service users and carers.

Produce accurate, accessible diagnostic reports for service users,families and professionals.

Deliver assessments and interventions flexibly across community and clinical settings.

Work collaboratively within the MDT and promote positive intra‑agency working.

Provide information, education and support to families, carers and partner agencies.

Maintain accurate clinical records and outcome measures in line with Trust and professional standards.

Participate in regular clinical and managerial supervision and caseload reviews.

Contribute to integrated care pathways, service development, audit and quality improvement.

Manage workload efficiently, escalate service delivery concerns appropriately and support delegated projects.

Adhere to Clinical Governance, Trust policies and complaint procedures.  Support recruitment, induction, training and mentorship of staff and students.

Maintain professional development through training, supervision and reflective practice.

Participate in audit and research to support evidence‑based practice.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

The post holder will work within a multi-disciplinary team to provide autism assessments  for adults without a learning disability.

Assessments will be carried out in line with relevant clinical pathways as outlined within  the service’s operational procedure.

The post holder will demonstrate an attitude which respects and values service users’ and their carer

All post holders will agree to: Commit to the vision of supporting Mersey Care in becoming a leading  organisation in the provision of community services, mental health care and learning disability care.

Role model the values of the Trust – Continuous Improvement, Accountability, Respectfulness, Enthusiasm, and Support – in all activities and interactions.

Challenge the stigma associated with mental health and learning disabilities.

Comply with the Duty of Candour, working across professional and  organisational boundaries to improve services.

Uphold and protect the reputation of the Trust both inside and outside of work, ensuring that actions and behaviours reflect the values and standards of MerseyCare NHS Foundation Trust at all times.

Value the contribution of the patient and service user’s voice, as well as the views of families and carers.

Maintain their specific knowledge base and develop new skills.

Observe statutory duties to safeguard and promote the welfare of adults and children.

Actively participate in creating an inclusive culture where everyone feels equally valued, respected and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives.

Commit to Mersey Care’s mission of being an actively anti-racist health care provider and employer.

Take responsibility for the accurate and timely collection and recording of data.

Operate within organisational codes of practice, comply with all health and safety legislation, organisational policies and operating procedures.

Understand and embrace the role of digital technology in the workplace.

Comply with the NHS Constitution in relation to staff responsibilities.

Support the creation of a positive environment and Restorative Just and Learning Culture, participate in related events, share concerns about safety and quality, and speak up against incivility while taking a collaborative approach to improve civility and respect.