Dietetic assistant

We are seeking a food / meal assistant to work on our specialist Eating Disorder Unit.

Then 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.

• 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.

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 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 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 with 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 individual's menu plan and support patient engagement in these.
• Participation in the delivery of therapeutic interventions, assisting /…