The post holder is responsible for observing and monitoring patients’ mental and physical wellbeing, accurately recording information, and reporting any changes or concerns to qualified nursing staff. They support the implementation of individual care and rehabilitation plans by encouraging participation in therapeutic activities, social engagement, education, and community-based programmes designed to promote recovery and independence.

Healthcare Assistants work collaboratively with nurses, doctors, occupational therapists, and other members of the multidisciplinary team to ensure patients receive consistent and person-centred care. The role also includes maintaining a safe, clean, and secure environment, supporting risk management procedures, and responding calmly and professionally to incidents, distressed behaviour, or mental health crises in line with organisational policies and training.

The position requires effective communication skills, compassion, resilience, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Healthcare Assistants are expected to maintain professional boundaries, follow safeguarding and confidentiality procedures, complete accurate documentation, attend training sessions, and contribute positively to the overall therapeutic culture of the unit.

The post holder will be responsible for managing their own workload, prioritising tasks effectively, and ensuring deadlines are met. They will be expected to work independently as well as part of a team, demonstrating flexibility and a commitment to high standards. The role may involve working across multiple sites and requires excellent communication and organisational skills.

Starting with NELFT

NELFT places a great deal of importance on new starters being properly welcomed and inducted into the Trust. All new starters will join the Trust on the first Monday of each month and will undertake a comprehensive induction of up to two weeks which will include mandatory training, systems training, and the allocation of equipment. As part of the process, new starters will have the opportunity to also meet the executive team, senior managers, and attend a number of drop-in sessions focusing on engagement, health and wellbeing, and key processes. The induction will be held at our head office in Goodmayes, Essex.

Probationary Period

This post will be subject to a probationary period. Internal applicants are exempt from the probationary period (unless you are an internal applicant currently part way through a probationary period or currently a bank member of staff).

High Cost Area Supplement Outer London (B&D, Redbridge, Havering and Waltham Forest)

This post also attracts payment for High Cost Area Supplement of 15% of the basic salary (with a minimum of £4,714 to a maximum of £5,941 p.a. pro rata for part-time).

Working for Us

Joining #TeamNELFT means you’ll become part of a welcoming and supportive working environment. We’re CQC rated Good, and we want you to join us on the journey towards an Outstanding rating. NELFT has sites across North East London and Essex. We provide community and mental healthcare services to adults and children within these areas.

The Trust has award-winning equality and diversity initiatives, along with staff health and wellbeing activities. We invest significantly in your development because when you feel valued and supported, we can deliver the highest quality care to our patients. We are a Level 3 Disability Confident Leader, have been recognised in the Working Families Top 10 Employers benchmark for five consecutive years, and hold a Carers UK Level 1 Accreditation. Through our staff networks and training opportunities, we strive to foster a just and compassionate culture at NELFT.