Job summary
We are seeking a food / meal assistant to work on our
specialist Eating Disorder Unit.
This is an exciting opportunity to work
alongside the dietetic team and the wider ward staff to ensure that the individuals
on the ward have the meals/food needed to support their nutrition care plans
and aid their recovery.
An interest in food and nutrition or some previous catering
experience is desirable but not essential, training will be provided.
Main duties of the job
- To assist the dietetic team and ward staff in the delivery of care and treatment to people using services. With an emphasis on ensuring that their nutritional needs are met in order to assist their recovery.
- Be responsible for undertaking practical procedures under the supervision of trained nursing staff and dietetic team.
- To provide users of The Haldon Eating Disorder Service and their families with support and time to meet their physical and psychological needs especially in relation to their dietary needs and requirements.
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.
Our values
We not only recruit employees based on their qualifications & experience - we recruit individuals who possess and demonstrate the behaviours which underpin the core values of our organisation. These values 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 & learning disabilities. We are a Disability Confident Leader Employer.
Job description
Job responsibilities
Job Purpose
- To assist the dietetic team and ward staff in the delivery
of care and treatment to people using services. With an emphasis on ensuring
that their nutritional needs are met in order to assist their recovery.
- Be responsible for undertaking practical procedures under
the supervision of trained nursing staff and dietetic team.
- To provide users of The Haldon Eating Disorder Service and
their families with support and time to meet their physical and psychological
needs especially in relation to their dietary needs and requirements.
Duties and
Responsibilities
Communication &
Working Relationships
-
To communicate effectively with people using
services taking into account any communication difficulties they may have and
responding appropriately.
-
To form and maintain therapeutic relationships
with individuals and other professionals and agencies.
-
To maintain accurate and complete records
consistent with legislation, policies and procedures.
-
To communicate in a professional manner that is
consistent with relevant legislation, policies and procedures.
-
Taking, recording and reporting telephone
messages.
-
Providing and receiving routine information to
assist in undertaking the role.
-
Participate in ward / team meetings and
discussions.
-
To promote better Mental Health by acting as a
suitable role model.
Planning and
Organisation
-
To ensure that the ward has the menu/food items
items available to ensure that the nutritional needs of each individual are
met.
-
To assist individuals in making the appropriate
food choices to promote their recovery.
-
To support the wider team in supporting
individuals in the dining room and assist with the serving of meals when
necessary.
-
To ensure that stock levels are maintained for
items such as nasogastric feeding equipment and supplements.
-
In order to provide comprehensive and quality
services to individuals, the post holder will if necessary be required to work
in other areas of the service as directed by the Line Manager /
Nurse-in-Charge.
Responsibility for
Judgement and Analysis
-
The post holder will be aware of and work within
their own limits, and competencies.
-
Take part in the constant assessment of risk and
management of risk in conjunction with the qualified staff.
-
Take part and be aware of Health and Safety
matters as appropriate.
-
Be punctual for work and conduct themselves in a
professional manner in accordance with Trust Policies.
Responsibility for Patient/Client care, Treatment and Therapy
-
To be fully aware of each individuals menu plan
and support patient engagement in these.
-
Participation in the delivery of therapeutic
interventions, assisting / facilitating in the running of group and individual
1-1 activities, offering time in positive activity and engagement with a
particular emphasis on food and nutrition aspects of the programme.
-
Participate in procedures involving intensive
engagement and care of individuals who are distressed and / or verbally or
physically aggressive.
-
To provide support with daily living skills.
-
Participate in physical intervention and
physical and / or mental health emergencies if required.
-
Be able to recognise signs of abuse and know
procedures they need to follow to escalate their concerns.
-
Provide regular and practical support to
individuals and their carers.
-
To maintain the dignity and wellbeing of
individuals and their carers at all times.
-
Assisting in the monitoring of patient
nutritional needs.
-
Participating in ward / team Multi-Disciplinary
Team meetings and discussions as appropriate.
-
Keep accurate records of interventions and care
provided as identified in patient care plans as directed by the Nurse-in-Charge
or dietitian and ensure all entries are validated on the electronic records
system.
-
Promptly report any difficulties encountered
whilst implementing agreed care plans to the Nurse-in-Charge or dietitian, and
be able to report both verbally and in written form against progress of care
plans.
Policy, Service, Research, Innovation
& Improvement
-
Complete all core training requirements and
other appropriate training courses, to maintain individual professional
development.
-
To comply with all DPT policies, protocols,
procedures relevant to the role.
-
Report any observed incidence of unprofessional
behaviour, accidents/incidents, untoward occurrences or faulty equipment to the
Nurse-in-charge or Line Manager.
-
To participate professionally in service
development and proposed service changes.
-
To take part in any audit processes as required.
-
Comply with universal Infection Control
precautions and procedures.
Responsibility for Finance, Equipment
& Other Resources
-
Assist in maintaining safety and security of the
environment.
-
Helping to maintain cleanliness and tidiness of
the environment (including equipment).
-
To ensure stock rotation of food items and
compliance with food safety regulations.
-
To have knowledge and understanding of counter
fraud.
-
To ensure Trust policies and legislation are
followed regarding patient's property and monies.
-
To ensure accurate documentation and record
keeping.
-
To participate in the monitoring, ordering and
receipts of stock and non-stock supplies of the ward.
Responsibility for Supervision,
Leadership & Management
-
To actively participate in regular supervision
and an annual staff appraisal which includes service objectives and individual
learning and development needs in accordance with Trust policy.
-
To participate in and support students learning
along with other members of the team.
Information Resources & Administrative
Duties
-
To effectively use the Trust's IT systems
(Carenotes), off duty (E-roster), learning and development (E-learning), online
and any other IT systems either current or in the future as commensurate with
the role.
-
Maintaining confidentiality of information being
aware of Trust policies and local protocols and keeping up-to-date with
changes.
Freedom Act
- Works within the standard operational procedures of the
team. Uses own initiative in delivering patient care whilst receiving supervision
from the team.
Any other specific
tasks
-
To contribute to the provision of a safe
therapeutic environment for individuals, staff and visitors to the unit.
-
To take on responsibility for duties assigned by
Line Manager.
-
To report any complains or mishaps to patients,
staff or visitors immediately to Nurse in Charge or dietitian
-
To attend any further training appropriate to
the role.
-
The post holder should ensure their fitness to
undertake the post, they should be able to demonstrate they are able to
undertake the level of general training and personal safety training
appropriate to their role and work area, and keep this training up-to-date.
-
If the ability to perform Physical Intervention
Techniques or Prevention of Violence, Management is a requirement of the role,
the post holder must declare physical fitness to undertake such a role.
-
The post holder should act quickly to protect
the safety of individuals if they have reason to believe that they or a
colleague may not be fit to undertake the duties within their job role.
-
Act within competency.
Job description
Job responsibilities
Job Purpose
- To assist the dietetic team and ward staff in the delivery
of care and treatment to people using services. With an emphasis on ensuring
that their nutritional needs are met in order to assist their recovery.
- Be responsible for undertaking practical procedures under
the supervision of trained nursing staff and dietetic team.
- To provide users of The Haldon Eating Disorder Service and
their families with support and time to meet their physical and psychological
needs especially in relation to their dietary needs and requirements.
Duties and
Responsibilities
Communication &
Working Relationships
-
To communicate effectively with people using
services taking into account any communication difficulties they may have and
responding appropriately.
-
To form and maintain therapeutic relationships
with individuals and other professionals and agencies.
-
To maintain accurate and complete records
consistent with legislation, policies and procedures.
-
To communicate in a professional manner that is
consistent with relevant legislation, policies and procedures.
-
Taking, recording and reporting telephone
messages.
-
Providing and receiving routine information to
assist in undertaking the role.
-
Participate in ward / team meetings and
discussions.
-
To promote better Mental Health by acting as a
suitable role model.
Planning and
Organisation
-
To ensure that the ward has the menu/food items
items available to ensure that the nutritional needs of each individual are
met.
-
To assist individuals in making the appropriate
food choices to promote their recovery.
-
To support the wider team in supporting
individuals in the dining room and assist with the serving of meals when
necessary.
-
To ensure that stock levels are maintained for
items such as nasogastric feeding equipment and supplements.
-
In order to provide comprehensive and quality
services to individuals, the post holder will if necessary be required to work
in other areas of the service as directed by the Line Manager /
Nurse-in-Charge.
Responsibility for
Judgement and Analysis
-
The post holder will be aware of and work within
their own limits, and competencies.
-
Take part in the constant assessment of risk and
management of risk in conjunction with the qualified staff.
-
Take part and be aware of Health and Safety
matters as appropriate.
-
Be punctual for work and conduct themselves in a
professional manner in accordance with Trust Policies.
Responsibility for Patient/Client care, Treatment and Therapy
-
To be fully aware of each individuals menu plan
and support patient engagement in these.
-
Participation in the delivery of therapeutic
interventions, assisting / facilitating in the running of group and individual
1-1 activities, offering time in positive activity and engagement with a
particular emphasis on food and nutrition aspects of the programme.
-
Participate in procedures involving intensive
engagement and care of individuals who are distressed and / or verbally or
physically aggressive.
-
To provide support with daily living skills.
-
Participate in physical intervention and
physical and / or mental health emergencies if required.
-
Be able to recognise signs of abuse and know
procedures they need to follow to escalate their concerns.
-
Provide regular and practical support to
individuals and their carers.
-
To maintain the dignity and wellbeing of
individuals and their carers at all times.
-
Assisting in the monitoring of patient
nutritional needs.
-
Participating in ward / team Multi-Disciplinary
Team meetings and discussions as appropriate.
-
Keep accurate records of interventions and care
provided as identified in patient care plans as directed by the Nurse-in-Charge
or dietitian and ensure all entries are validated on the electronic records
system.
-
Promptly report any difficulties encountered
whilst implementing agreed care plans to the Nurse-in-Charge or dietitian, and
be able to report both verbally and in written form against progress of care
plans.
Policy, Service, Research, Innovation
& Improvement
-
Complete all core training requirements and
other appropriate training courses, to maintain individual professional
development.
-
To comply with all DPT policies, protocols,
procedures relevant to the role.
-
Report any observed incidence of unprofessional
behaviour, accidents/incidents, untoward occurrences or faulty equipment to the
Nurse-in-charge or Line Manager.
-
To participate professionally in service
development and proposed service changes.
-
To take part in any audit processes as required.
-
Comply with universal Infection Control
precautions and procedures.
Responsibility for Finance, Equipment
& Other Resources
-
Assist in maintaining safety and security of the
environment.
-
Helping to maintain cleanliness and tidiness of
the environment (including equipment).
-
To ensure stock rotation of food items and
compliance with food safety regulations.
-
To have knowledge and understanding of counter
fraud.
-
To ensure Trust policies and legislation are
followed regarding patient's property and monies.
-
To ensure accurate documentation and record
keeping.
-
To participate in the monitoring, ordering and
receipts of stock and non-stock supplies of the ward.
Responsibility for Supervision,
Leadership & Management
-
To actively participate in regular supervision
and an annual staff appraisal which includes service objectives and individual
learning and development needs in accordance with Trust policy.
-
To participate in and support students learning
along with other members of the team.
Information Resources & Administrative
Duties
-
To effectively use the Trust's IT systems
(Carenotes), off duty (E-roster), learning and development (E-learning), online
and any other IT systems either current or in the future as commensurate with
the role.
-
Maintaining confidentiality of information being
aware of Trust policies and local protocols and keeping up-to-date with
changes.
Freedom Act
- Works within the standard operational procedures of the
team. Uses own initiative in delivering patient care whilst receiving supervision
from the team.
Any other specific
tasks
-
To contribute to the provision of a safe
therapeutic environment for individuals, staff and visitors to the unit.
-
To take on responsibility for duties assigned by
Line Manager.
-
To report any complains or mishaps to patients,
staff or visitors immediately to Nurse in Charge or dietitian
-
To attend any further training appropriate to
the role.
-
The post holder should ensure their fitness to
undertake the post, they should be able to demonstrate they are able to
undertake the level of general training and personal safety training
appropriate to their role and work area, and keep this training up-to-date.
-
If the ability to perform Physical Intervention
Techniques or Prevention of Violence, Management is a requirement of the role,
the post holder must declare physical fitness to undertake such a role.
-
The post holder should act quickly to protect
the safety of individuals if they have reason to believe that they or a
colleague may not be fit to undertake the duties within their job role.
-
Act within competency.
Person Specification
Communication skills
Essential
- 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
- Good written communication.
- Able to work in a team effectively
Qualifications
Essential
- Basic Education
- If equivalent qualification is not already obtained, to complete QCF Level 3 in Health and Social Care within 12 months of commencing employment.
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 services
- Awareness of safeguarding principles
- IT skills
- Food Hygiene certificate or wiliness to complete this training
- Food Allergen training or wiliness to complete this training
Desirable
- Previous care experience with people who have Mental Health difficulties.
- Knowledge of mental health and a basic understanding of physical health presentations.
Analytical & Judgement Skills
Essential
- Demonstrate an ability and awareness to maintain personal boundaries
Desirable
Planning & Organisation Skills
Essential
- 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
Physical Skills
Essential
- 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.
Other Qualities
Essential
- To be self-motivated.
- Able to work changing shift patterns as required
- To be maintain confidentiality, empathy, compassion and patience, towards individuals with mental health illness.
- To maintain professionalism at all times.
- To be patient and tolerant in challenging situations.
Person Specification
Communication skills
Essential
- 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
- Good written communication.
- Able to work in a team effectively
Qualifications
Essential
- Basic Education
- If equivalent qualification is not already obtained, to complete QCF Level 3 in Health and Social Care within 12 months of commencing employment.
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 services
- Awareness of safeguarding principles
- IT skills
- Food Hygiene certificate or wiliness to complete this training
- Food Allergen training or wiliness to complete this training
Desirable
- Previous care experience with people who have Mental Health difficulties.
- Knowledge of mental health and a basic understanding of physical health presentations.
Analytical & Judgement Skills
Essential
- Demonstrate an ability and awareness to maintain personal boundaries
Desirable
Planning & Organisation Skills
Essential
- 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
Physical Skills
Essential
- 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.
Other Qualities
Essential
- To be self-motivated.
- Able to work changing shift patterns as required
- To be maintain confidentiality, empathy, compassion and patience, towards individuals with mental health illness.
- To maintain professionalism at all times.
- To be patient and tolerant in challenging situations.
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.
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).
Additional information
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.
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).
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