Job Description

We are searching for experienced or aspiring Healthcare Assistants who would like to start a career within our Mental Health, Learning Disability and Neurodiversity Services.
This is an exciting opportunity to join the team at the Regional Learning Disability and Autism Unit in Dawlish (The Brook).
The Brook provides high quality care and treatment for people who have learning disabilities, and autistic patients with complex mental health needs. The building and environment is state of the art and the service aims to become a centre of excellence.
We are committed to the ongoing training and development of all our staff and offer a range of opportunities for career progression. The Care Certificate is the nationally recognised qualification for all staff working within the health and social care sector. Within Devon Partnership Trust we are committed to all staff at Band 3 holding this qualification. If you have not yet completed the Care Certificate you will be supported to attain this within your first 3 months of employment as part of your mandatory training. We know at Devon Partnership NHS Trust that Healthcare Assistants from different employment backgrounds can bring a range of knowledge and new ideas - previous care experience is desirable but not essential.
Main duties of the job
The post holder will be required to assist multi-disciplinary team members in the delivery of care and treatment to people using our services. The care provided will encompass social, physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual needs of the individuals.
You will also be responsible for undertaking practical procedures under the supervision of trained nursing staff.
Our inpatient services operate on a 24/7 shift bases which supports us offering flexible working patterns. You can work a variety of shifts - these include mornings (shifts could start from 7am), short days & long days (shifts are generally 10 - 12 hours long), evenings (till around 8pm) and nights (from around 7pm). You will qualify for unsocial enhancements in addition to basic pay.
About us
About Devon Partnership Trust
We provide mental health, learning disability and neurodiversity services, as well as a range of specialist & secure services for the wider south west region & nationally. We are passionate about promoting good mental health & wellbeing. We strive to use the expertise & resources within our organisation, and through our partnerships, to deliver high quality services that are safe & focused on people's recovery.
We are committed to developing a culture of coproduction, involving patients, families & carers in everything we do
Our values
We not only recruit based on qualifications & experience - we recruit individuals who possess & demonstrate the behaviours which underpin our Trusts core values. These include such attributes as showing a commitment to quality of care, improving lives of others, giving respect, dignity & compassion. We can bring those values to life in our everyday tasks by giving a smile; making time for people; challenging ourselves & others, & being open to new ideas.
We are committed to being an inclusive employer & applications are encouraged & welcomed from all sections of the community, regardless of any protected characteristics as governed by the Equality Act 2010. Part time & flexible working applications will be considered & supported, where possible. We particularly encourage applicants with lived experience of mental health conditions, neurodiversity or learning disabilities. We are a Disability Confident Leader.
Details
Date posted
08 January 2026
Pay scheme
Agenda for change
Band
Band 3
Salary
24,937 to 26,598 a year
Contract
Permanent
Working pattern
Full-time, Part-time, Flexible working
Reference number
C9369-26-0009
Job locations
The Brook, Learning Disability and Autism (LDA) Unit
Exeter Road
Dawlish
Devon
EX7 0NR
Job description
Job responsibilities
Please see the attached and Person Specification which will provide further information on this role. Job description
Job responsibilities
Please see the attached and Person Specification which will provide further information on this role.
Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential

• Basic Education.
• To complete the Care Certificate within the first 3 months of employment unless already obtained or evidence of equivalent agreed and signed off by the appointing manager.

Desirable

• NVQ level 3, QCF Level 3 in Health and Social Care or equivalent qualification.
• Other evidence of training or development relevant to working within mental health settings.

Experience
Essential

• Previous employment / experience of working with people in a caring situation or previous experience working in a different role within mental health, learning disability or autism services.

Knowledge and Skills
Essential

• Awareness of safeguarding principles.
• IT skills.
• Demonstrate an ability to make and sustain professional therapeutic relationships.
• Good communication and listening skills.
• Ability to work with people in a group and individual basis.
• Demonstrate an ability and awareness to maintain personal boundaries.
• Problem solving skills.
• Able to plan work, time management, completing records and recording observations etc.
• To take leadership and direction from qualified staff.
• To participate in unsupervised tasks and provide accurate feedback to relevant parties.
• To demonstrate an ability to provide practical support with daily living activities, and physically perform nursing duties.
• To be able to respond promptly to physical and mental health emergencies, be able to think quickly and deal with situations in a calm and sensible manner.
• To be patient and tolerant in challenging situations.

Desirable

• Knowledge of mental health and a basic understanding of physical health presentations.

Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential

• Basic Education.
• To complete the Care Certificate within the first 3 months of employment unless already obtained or evidence of equivalent agreed and signed off by the appointing manager.

Desirable

• NVQ level 3, QCF Level 3 in Health and Social Care or equivalent qualification.
• Other evidence of training or development relevant to working within mental health settings.

Experience
Essential

• Previous employment / experience of working with people in a caring situation or previous experience working in a different role within mental health, learning disability or autism services.

Knowledge and Skills
Essential

• Awareness of safeguarding principles.
• IT skills.
• Demonstrate an ability to make and sustain professional therapeutic relationships.
• Good communication and listening skills.
• Ability to work with people in a group and individual basis.
• Demonstrate an ability and awareness to maintain personal boundaries.
• Problem solving skills.
• Able to plan work, time management, completing records and recording observations etc.
• To take leadership and direction from qualified staff.
• To participate in unsupervised tasks and provide accurate feedback to relevant parties.
• To demonstrate an ability to provide practical support with daily living activities, and physically perform nursing duties.
• To be able to respond promptly to physical and mental health emergencies, be able to think quickly and deal with situations in a calm and sensible manner.
• To be patient and tolerant in challenging situations.

Desirable

• Knowledge of mental health and a basic understanding of physical health presentations.

Skills Required