Job Description

Applicants are invited for the role of Forensic Physician (Speciality Grade Dr post) at the Havens Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) service in London.



We are recruiting for two Forensic Physicians and both posts are for 3 days (6 PAs)/week.



Provided by King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, the Havens service operates from three sites: Camberwell, Whitechapel and St Charles Hospital near Ladbroke Grove. The post-holder will be based at a primary site but are expected to undertake work on any of the Havens sites as required by the service.



This post is not accredited for training but offers a unique opportunity to learn about all aspects of care for those who have been sexually assaulted and to develop a clinician's awareness and understanding of complex safeguarding needs. No prior experience in forensic medicine is required as full training for the role of Forensic Physician will be offered.



The post holder will also be required to participate in the out of hours on-call rota to support the delivery of 24/7 cover. Overnight shifts are included as part of a monthly rotational shift pattern.



The post holder will be required to provide a DNA elimination sample in accordance with the Forensic Science Regulator Code of Practice.



If you would like to work for an organisation that values its staff and is committed to working together for ongoing service improvement to deliver the best care, we would love to hear from you.



The major responsibility of the post-holder will be to contribute to daily case review, take referrals, provide advice and carry out forensic medical examinations for victims of sexual assault. These are detailed examinations, which must meet strict standards in terms of recording information, sample collection and handling, and avoiding DNA contamination. It includes the assessment of risk of pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections/blood-borne viruses and administering emergency contraception, HIV prophylaxis (PEPSE), Hepatitis B vaccination as required, in addition to mental health assessments and safeguarding. Examiners will also make onward referrals to support agencies.



Subsequently a witness statement may be requested by police and the post-holder may be required to attend court to give evidence.



The successful post holders will be given comprehensive training and line managed by Senior Clinicians within the service. Post holders will work collaboratively with Forensic Nurses, Crisis Worker's, Paediatricians, Specially Trained Police Officers (SOITs) and other professionals to support clients.



The Havens is commissioned by NHS England and the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC). We offer a 24/7 service providing telephone advice, forensic examinations and immediate medical aftercare. We also provide follow-up medical care, Independent Sexual Violence Advocacy (ISVA) and Therapy services, which may be accessed up to a year post-assault.



Clinical Responsibilities



Contribute to the daytime and out-of-hours rota of the Haven, providing forensic medical examinations for complainants of sexual assault.



Provide an immediate response to police or self-referrals requiring a forensic medical examination. The examinations will usually be undertaken at the Havens, but may, in certain circumstances, be conducted elsewhere such as in hospital or a care home for example



Following appropriate training, undertake joint paediatric examination of children where acute sexual assault is suspected. The forensic medical examination will be under the supervision of a Consultant Paediatrician.



Ensure forensic activities are conducted to the standards required by Forensic Science Regulator Code of Practice.



Provide appropriate medical aftercare, emergency contraception, post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV and Hepatitis B, screening for STIs, prophylaxis and management of sexually transmitted infections and advice to complainants. Training in this area will be provided, where necessary.



To undertake forensic examinations on an on-call basis as part of the out-of-hours rota and to attend for the appointment start within 90 minutes of the call-out.



To identify safeguarding needs and complete referrals to social care at the time of forensic medical examination



To make referrals to other support agencies (e.g. GP, mental health team, MARAC) as required.



To adhere to Havens clinical and administrative aftercare protocols and guidelines



Administrative Responsibilities



Accurately record details of examinations and provide written reports/advice to police officers and Havens staff.



Provide reports/witness statements within 15 working days from the request date for police and Court use.



To attend Court and give objective unbiased evidence.



Prepare medical reports for the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority, or others, as and when required



Adhere to all Havens procedures and protocols and contribute to updating them as and when necessary, through a consultative process