Job Description

Are you passionate about mental health and motivated to make a positive difference? We are seeking an enthusiastic Senior Support Worker to join our dedicated team. Elm ward is a 15-bedded male admissions medium secure unit providing specialist assessment and treatment for individuals with complex mental health needs whom require guidance and support with their forensic pathway
As a Senior Support Worker, you will play a key role in delivering patient-centred care and supporting recovery through therapeutic and recreational activities that promote social inclusion. This is a rewarding and engaging role, offering the opportunity to work closely with patients with complex needs, who require support in transition into community life where your skills and compassion can make a real difference.
We are looking for proactive, compassionate, and resilient individuals with experience in mental health, a strong commitment to patient care, the ability to adapt to changing demands, and the confidence to work safely within a fast-paced secure environment. We are looking for someone with an inpatient mental health experience is desirable but not essential.
Why Join Us:
We offer a supportive team environment, opportunities for training and development, and an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of patients.
Main duties of the job
You will be responsible to:
Monitor patients' behaviours, emotional states, and overall well-being, ensuring adherence to care plans and safety protocols.
Provide emotional and psychological support, creating a safe and supportive environment.
Assist patients with daily tasks such as personal care, meal preparation, and activities that promote independence.
Support rehabilitation by helping patients develop life skills, coping strategies, and social inclusion.
Use your own initiative to engage patients in activities that relieve boredom and encourage them to be active participants in their recovery.
Collaborate with mental health professionals to implement and review care plans.
Record and report incidents, behaviours, and progress to relevant team members.
Maintain safety and security within the unit, including managing challenging behaviours and de-escalating potentially high-risk situations.
Encourage positive behaviours through structured activities that build confidence and social skills.
Support discharge planning and link patients with community resources to aid transition and rehabilitation.
About us
ELM Ward, based at theHellingly Centre, is a 15-bedded medium secure unit for male adults, forming part of a wider forensic pathway that includes two other MSU male wards, a female blended ward. We take pride in being a motivated, responsive, and forward-thinking team, committed to providing the highest standards of care.
By joining us, you will become part of a supportive and collaborative environment where your skills and dedication are valued. Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (SPFT) offers a wide range of benefits, including flexible working options, an attractive NHS Pension Scheme, a generous holiday allowance that increases with service, paid parental leave, comprehensive health and wellbeing support, and access to learning and development opportunities. Employees can also access staff networks, discounts through the Blue Light Card, and other NHS schemes.
Working with us provides the chance to make a real and lasting difference in the lives of patients while being part of a team that prioritises patient-centred care, wellbeing, and professional excellence. At the Hellingly Centre, we actively invest in our staff, supporting you to achieve your career goals and develop the skills that matter most to you. Be part of a team that truly makes a difference.
Details
Date posted
12 December 2025
Pay scheme
Agenda for change
Band
Band 3
Salary
24,937 to 26,598 a year per annum
Contract
Permanent
Working pattern
Full-time
Reference number
354-FH-20580
Job locations
Hellingly Centre
The Drive
Hellingly
BN27 4ER
Job description
Job responsibilities
See attached and Person Specification for full details.
Please apply using the link in this advert, or for more information explore the attachments
We encourage future applicants to arrange informal visits. Come and see our excellent service! Job description
Job responsibilities
See attached and Person Specification for full details.
Please apply using the link in this advert, or for more information explore the attachments
We encourage future applicants to arrange informal visits. Come and see our excellent service!
Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential

• Good general education
• NVQ level 3 or equivalent experience

Knowledge/Experience
Essential

• Experience of working with mental health needs in a paid or voluntary capacity
• Experience of working collaboratively i.e. with colleagues, wider teams, service users etc
• An understanding of confidentiality

Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential

• Good general education
• NVQ level 3 or equivalent experience

Knowledge/Experience
Essential

• Experience of working with mental health needs in a paid or voluntary capacity
• Experience of working collaboratively i.e. with colleagues, wider teams, service users etc
• An understanding of confidentiality

Skills Required