Health Care Support Worker

Job overview

We are looking for enthusiastic, motivated and compassionate individuals to join our teams working with adults with acute mental health needs on Pavilion Ward (Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit) at Mill View Hospital.

Pavilion Ward provides a comprehensive induction period that will support you to develop in to a knowledgeable and skilled healthcare assistant. There is a wealth of career development opportunities available to all of our colleagues, and you will be supported to undertake comprehensive training in specialist skills such as The Prevention and Management of Violence and Aggression (PMVA) and Immediate Life Support (ILS).

The ideal candidate will have a passion for supporting people in crisis and breaking down the stigma of mental illness. You will be working alongside a multi disciplinary team to deliver person centred, evidenced based care.

Pavilion Ward is a Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit supporting ten male patients. We are passionate about least restrictive practice and nurse-led activities. We are an energetic and motivated team and you will supported in implementing positive changes in practice for patients.

Main duties of the job

In your role as a healthcare assistant, you will report to the nurse in charge and your main duties will involve completing observations to maintain patient safety, supporting patients with regular, therapeutic engagements. You will act as an escort to patients, whether to accompany them on therapeutic community leave or for conveyance to another healthcare setting. You will contribute to and follow each patients care plan to engage them in therapeutic interventions, and will be encouraged to share your views and expertise in developing person-centred plans for care and treatment.

We are currently recruiting for full time (37.5 hour) healthcare assistants to work a variety of shifts. Many of our colleagues across the hospital work flexibly, and this can be discussed with the interviewing manager if your application is successful.

Mill View Hospital is a fast paced and dynamic place to work, and no two days are the same. You will be supported in regular supervision by your line manager or other members of the management team, where you can discuss any concerns or ideas you may have to develop the service we provide.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Clinical Care and Patient Support

• Deliver high standards of compassionate, person-centred care
• Support patients with activities of daily living where required
• Engage patients in therapeutic interactions to promote recovery
• Observe and report on patient presentation, behaviour, and risk
• Assist qualified staff in implementing and evaluating care plans

Observation and Safety (including POS eyesight role)

• Undertake general, intermittent eyesight and arms length observations in accordance with Trust policy
• Maintain continuous awareness of patient safety and risk while on observation
• Accurately record observation findings using approved documentation systems
• Communicate any changes in risk or presentation immediately to the nurse in charge
• Ensure observation levels are followed as allocated and reviewed through handover processes
• When working in the Place of Safety, provide close supervision and support for individuals in crisis

Place of Safety (POS) Responsibilities

• Rotate onto the POS as required by service need
• Support the safe care and supervision of individuals detained or assessed under the Mental Health Act
• Maintain clear, professional boundaries while providing reassurance and support
• Ensure dignity, privacy, and safety are maintained at all times

Risk Management and Incident Support

• Assist in the prevention and management of incidents, including violence and aggression
• Follow guidance from qualified staff in responding to emergencies
• Participate in debriefs and reflective practice following incidents
• Maintain awareness of safeguarding responsibilities and escalate concerns appropriately

Communication and Team Working

• Work effectively as part of the multidisciplinary team
• Participate in handovers, ensuring clear communication of patient risks and observation levels
• Build positive therapeutic relationships with patients
• Communicate respectfully with carers, families, and external agencies as appropriate

Documentation and Governance

• Maintain accurate, clear, and timely records of care and observations
• Ensure all documentation meets legal, professional, and Trust standards
• Contribute to a culture of safety by reporting incidents and near misses

Professional Responsibilities

• Work within Trust policies, procedures, and professional standards
• Maintain confidentiality at all times
• Participate in mandatory training, including observation and POS competencies
• Engage in supervision and personal development
• Act as a positive role model, promoting respectful and inclusive care