Job Description

The closing date is 12th Dec 2025

Job summary

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Are you passionate about supporting people through their most challenging times? Do you want a role where every day you can make a positive impact on someone's life? If so, this opportunity is for you.


We are looking for a Health Care Assistant to join our dedicated team on a 15-bedded mental health ward in Yeovil. You will work within a multidisciplinary team that includes Mental Health Nurses, Occupational Therapists, Psychologists, and medical professionals. Together, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to individual needs.


This is a 24-hour service, and you will work on a rotational shift pattern, including days, nights, weekends, and bank holidays.


As a valued member of our team, you will provide care and support to adults of working age who are experiencing acute mental health difficulties. Your role is central to helping patients feel safe, supported, and empowered on their journey to recovery.

Main duties, tasks & skills required

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Build therapeutic relationships through listening, empathy, and meaningful engagement. Monitor patient wellbeing and ensure safety through observation and proactive care. Support daily living activities such as eating, drinking, and personal hygiene. Encourage participation in therapeutic and diversional activities. Escort patients safely outside the unit for appointments or therapeutic leave. Use de-escalation techniques to manage distress and aggression, and assist in crisis situations. Help patients adhere to their care plans, including medication and treatment. Maintain accurate records and communicate effectively with patients, carers, and colleagues.

About us

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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:

Flexible working options

to help you balance work and life

NHS pension scheme

for long-term financial security

Generous annual leave allowance

to recharge and relax A strong focus on

career development

to help you grow and achieve your potential

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.

Job description

-------------------


As a Health Care Assistant, you will:

Recognise each patient as an individual and support their social, emotional, and physical needs. Assist with personal care, nutrition, and hygiene, promoting independence wherever possible. Participate in therapeutic activities and structured interventions to aid recovery. Carry out physiological observations and support medication administration under supervision. Respond to challenging behaviour using approved techniques, including restraint when trained. Escort patients to appointments and therapeutic activities both on and off the ward. Adhere to infection control policies and report concerns promptly. Engage in regular supervision and training to maintain high standards of care.

Person specification

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Qualifications

#

Essential

Must be willing to work towards NVQ level 3 in direct care or Certificate in Care if not already held.


#

Desirable

Related healthcare interests or education

Experience

#

Essential

Experience of working with people in a caring situation


#

Desirable

Previous experience of working in mental health services

Additional Criteria

#

Essential

Able to recognise and manage situations in a calm manner


High standards of written communication and the ability to use email and internet


Excellent organisational skills


Able to plan and manage own time and respond to instruction as needed

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

For help with your application, contact:

Megan Cridge


megan.cridge@somersetft.nhs.uk


01935410784

Pay scheme

Agenda for Change

Band

Band 3

Salary

24937.00 to 26598.00 Yearly

Contract

Permanent

Working pattern

Part-Time, Full-Time

Reference number

184-OL-GR-3740

Job locations

Rowan Ward

56 Preston Road

Yeovil

Somerset

BA20 2BX