Job overview

Rapid Response is a new service, based on the success of Blue Light Triage team who successfully worked with emergency services to meet the needs of those in mental health crisis which, with very few exceptions has been in their own homes, therefore avoiding a conveyance to A&E and the use of S136 within its operational hours. As emergency services could obtain support and advice, or request attendance at scene it reduced the amount of time emergency services spent on scene supporting members of the community with mental health difficulties

We are looking for experienced mental health professionals, grade 7 to work across Sussex to become responsive practitioners who can carry out person centred interventions and assessments and develop an onward care plan that can address a mental health crisis. This could be on the telephone, virtually or 'at scene'. Practitioners will be accompanied by a senior community support worker who can provide basic first aid and assistance to the mental health professional by providing support to carers and administrative tasks.   

The service operates over 24 hrs, and Rapid Response practitioners will work from Midday to Midnight 7 days a week, working in partnership with Blue Light Line who provide a single point of access to Paramedics and Police giving information and clinical advice to ensure that patients achieve the best outcomes and reduce the need for conveyance to A&E and alternatives to the use of S136

Main duties of the job

To receive information from emergency service colleagues, and give advice and support based on the clinical presentation of a person in crisis, including a self- defined crisis.

 To receive information from emergency service colleagues and based on the clinical presentation of the person offer either a 'hear and treat intervention' by speaking directly to a person in crisis on the telephone, and when appropriate their carers and loved ones. Or if required attend the scene to carry out a face-to-face person-centred holistic assessment and formulate a care plan that addresses the presenting mental health need, and make any referrals required.

Complete written records that outline the presenting need for each referral, intervention offered and the outcomes.  

 When required, using clinical skills and knowledge, advise police colleagues on alternative means of support available to avoid the use of S136, offer least restrictive practice and gain the best outcomes for those in mental health crisis.

 Advise paramedics on alternative pathways to mental health assessment without the need for conveyance to A&E when there is no medical need.  

 To have experience of and specialist knowledge on interventions to be able to lead in clinical area.

To demonstrate excellent communication skills and provide handovers of activity.

To work in partnership with other agencies to gain the best person -centred outcomes for the individual.

Working for our organisation

We provide mental health and learning disability care for children, young people and adults across Sussex and for children and young people in Hampshire.

Working in Sussex:

·       Travel easily between coast and countryside, with a blend of picturesque villages and seaside towns

·       Embrace the city life with great access to visit Brighton and London

·       With easy access to Gatwick and Heathrow and excellent railway links across the UK there is plenty of opportunity for adventure

We’d love you to join our organisation that is rated ‘good’ overall and ‘outstanding’ for caring by the CQC. Our staff agree, in our recent staff survey 82% told us that they recognise that care for patients is our top priority.