Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust

Registered Mental Health Nurse

The closing date is 19 February 2026

Job summary

An exciting opportunity has become available for a dedicated and compassionate Band 5 Staff Nurse to join Oak Ward, a 15-bedded male admissions ward situated in Hellingly Centre.

The ward offers comprehensive assessment and treatment for individuals with complex and acute mental health conditions, supported by a structured programme of therapeutic and recreational activities.As part of a provider collaborative, Oak Ward adopts the Secure Recovery Model, using evidence-based interventions to promote patient engagement and recovery.

We welcome applications from Registered Mental Health Nurses, with experience in Acute, PICU and Forensic settings, who are committed to providing safe, effective, and patient-centred care. The successful candidate will work within a skilled MDT, contributing to assessments, care planning, and therapeutic delivery, while also supporting ward safety and day-to-day operations.

This is a great opportunity to grow your career in forensic mental health within a supportive, specialist environment. Apply today and start your journey with us.

Main duties of the job

As a staff nurse / RMN, your responsibilities will be to;- Assess, plan, deliver, and evaluate nursing care for individuals with complex mental health needs.- Administer medications and treatments in line with legal and professional guidelines (e.g. NMC standards, local policies).- Monitor physical health and respond to any deterioration in condition.- Ability to manage challenging behaviour, incl the use of verbal de-escalation techniques and physical interventions when necessary (PMVA trained).- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.- Understanding of safeguarding and risk assessment.- Maintain therapeutic relationships and support patient recovery using person-centred approaches.- Ensure the safe and effective handover of information at shift changes and during multidisciplinary meetings.- Collaboratively contribute to MDT discussions and ward rounds.- Provide leadership and supervision to junior staff and students where appropriate.

Work a flexible shift pattern which includes Long Days (07:00 - 19:30) and Nights (19:00 - 07:30) including weekends and bank holidays.

About us

Oak Ward is a 15-bedded medium secure unit for male adults, forming part of a wider forensic pathway that includes 2 other MSU Male Wards, a Female MSU, & an LSU Male Ward. We take pride in being a motivated, responsive, & forward-thinking team, committed to providing the highest standards of care.

By joining us, you'll benefit fromo A Supportive & Inclusive Team - Work in a collaborative MDT environment where your voice is valued, & teamwork is at the heart of everything we do.o Career Growth & Development - We invest in our staff with ongoing training, development programs, & career progression opportunities, helping you build a long-term future with us.o Job Satisfaction - Be part of a service that actively encourages patient engagement, rehabilitation, & personal development, allowing you to see the real impact of your work.o Work-Life Balance - We offer rotational shifts, including weekends & bank holidays, ensuring flexibility & a structured working pattern to help maintain a healthy balance.o A Commitment to Excellence - Our ongoing vision is to provide safe, effective, & high-quality care, always putting the needs of our service users first while maintaining safe working practices & clinical leadership to enhance patient experience.

Be Part of a Team That Makes a DifferenceIf you're looking for a meaningful career in an organisation that supports, develops, & values its staff, apply today & be part of a team that makes a difference.

Date posted

05 February 2026

Pay scheme

Agenda for change

Band

Band 5

Salary

£31,049 to £37,796 a year per annum

Contract

Permanent

Working pattern

Full-time

Reference number

354-FH-20592

Job locations

Hellingly Centre,

The Drive

Hellingly

BN27 4ER

Job description

Job responsibilities

See attached Job Description 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 Job Description 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

Registered Nurse with current registration (mental health / LD/ Adult) appropriate to the job role.

Knowledge/Experience

Essential

Knowledge of MHA (1983/2007)
Knowledge of Mental Capacity Act (2005), to include practical knowledge of FACE documentation, DOLS and Best Interest decisions.
Child and Adult safe guarding procedures
Change management, organising and prioritising workloads
Demonstrate ability to enhance care through evidence based knowledge
Demonstrate professional development relevant to the care group.
Demonstrates ability to assess and manage clinical risk

Person Specification

Qualifications

Essential

Registered Nurse with current registration (mental health / LD/ Adult) appropriate to the job role.

Knowledge/Experience

Essential

Knowledge of MHA (1983/2007)
Knowledge of Mental Capacity Act (2005), to include practical knowledge of FACE documentation, DOLS and Best Interest decisions.
Child and Adult safe guarding procedures
Change management, organising and prioritising workloads
Demonstrate ability to enhance care through evidence based knowledge
Demonstrate professional development relevant to the care group.
Demonstrates ability to assess and manage clinical risk

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.

Certificate of Sponsorship

Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).

From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).