Mental Health Charge Nurse

Who we are

NHS Ayrshire and Arran is one of 14 territorial NHS Boards within NHS Scotland. In support of our core purpose Working together to achieve the healthiest life possible for everyone in Ayrshire and Arran we are committed to a culture that is Caring Safe and Respectful. You will be required to work collaboratively in a safe, caring and respectful way.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Band 6 Registered Mental Health Nurse to join the Healthcare team in HMP Kilmarnock.

This will be a diverse and challenging role, providing mental health care to a very vulnerable population, many of whom have suffered significant trauma. You will be responsible for the direct line management of a team of Registered Mental Health and Learning Disability Nurses and support the Clinical Team Leader and Clinical Service Manager alongside the Addiction Charge Nurse and Charge Nurse (Adult Nursing).

As a Registered Mental Health Nurse, on the NMC Register, you will be an integral member of Healthcare Management team in the prison. You will be educated to degree level and have significant experience related to the job purpose. This post will require a motivated and enthusiastic individual with excellent written and verbal communication skills. You will be able to work flexibly and adapt to the dynamic nature of the prison setting.

You will have well‑developed knowledge of mental health problems and appropriate interventions coupled with excellent organisational skills. The ability to work as part of a team as well as autonomously are essential.

You must demonstrate effective leadership skills and be confident in delivering clinical and line management supervision. You will have an understanding of the needs of the prison population and current recovery orientated practices, demonstrating the necessary attributes for partnership working with the prison service.

In this role you will be integral to service improvement and will support with the shaping of Mental Health Services within HMP Kilmarnock. An up to date knowledge of current policies in regards to development and promoting attendance are essential.

37hrs over 4 shifts a week, 4 week rolling roster.

This post is offered on a permanent basis.

If you want to find out more about the role, please contact Heather Johnston at heather or on

Additional information for candidates:
You should apply for this post by completing the application process on Job Train. Do NOT upload a CV as this will not be used for shortlisting purposes. Posts close at midnight on the indicated date. Late applications will not be accepted. For help to complete an application on Job Train, please follow the link https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). To view our accessibility statement, please follow the link https://

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