Staff Nurse (RMN)

Job overview

Haven is a 5-bed female PICU providing intensive, trauma-informed care to women experiencing the most acute phase of serious mental illness. This is a highly rewarding role for nurses who want to deliver skilled, least restrictive care in a calm, low-stimulus environment where clinical judgement, therapeutic relationships, and teamwork are central to daily practice.

We are about to move into a brand-new, purpose-built inpatient facility, offering an exciting opportunity to work in a modern, therapeutic environment and help shape the future of our service.

We welcome applications from experienced mental health nurses looking for their next challenge, as well as newly qualified nurses seeking a well-supported first role within the NHS.

Main duties of the job

We are strongly committed to least restrictive, trauma-informed practice. Our approach prioritises therapeutic engagement, relational security, and skilled de-escalation, supported by consistent team working and clear communication. Care is individualised, risk is thoughtfully assessed, and restrictive interventions are used only when absolutely necessary. Reflective practice is embedded within the team, allowing us to learn from challenges and continually improve the care we provide.

Haven PICU offers an excellent opportunity to deepen your clinical expertise and broaden your professional impact. We work closely with medical staff, psychology, and AHPs in a truly integrated MDT. As a nurse on Haven you have an opportunity to take on informal leadership and mentorship roles within the shift team, as well as contribute to service development, quality improvement, and ward culture.

Many nurses find PICU to be a career-defining step, strengthening confidence, resilience, and readiness for future Band 6 or specialist roles.

Newly qualified nurses are fully supported through a comprehensive preceptorship programme, alongside a structured ward-based induction. You will receive close support from Clinical Team Leaders and the wider MDT as you develop confidence and competence in your role.

As a specialist service, Haven offers access to enhanced training opportunities, including RAID and CBT.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

For the main duties and responsibilities for this role please read the attached job description and person specification. When completing your application please ensure your supporting statement reflects the criteria set out in these documents by showing how your experience and skills apply to this post.

We understand that using AI can be a useful and supportive tool when completing your application. However, we have also seen an increase in the over-reliance of AI tools which is negatively impacting applications as they remove candidate’s individuality, and it becomes much harder to get a sense of who you are and your authentic experience. If you do use AI, it should be used to enhance your application and not to create your supporting statement in its entirety. If we suspect you have used AI to create your supporting statement and this does not match your experience, we may withdraw your application.

As part of our vision to have a skilled, diverse and caring workforce, Dorset HealthCare offers support for people getting into work. We offer an employability service to support individuals with application writing, interview skills and other employment support. If you would like or know of anyone who would value this support, please do contact [email protected]

Employment in this post requires an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, which the Trust will cover the cost of.

Please note visa sponsorship for this role is unfortunately not available. Ensure you hold valid right to work in the UK and will not require sponsorship if successful.

Applicant requirements

You must have appropriate UK professional registration.

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service.