Mental Health Practitioner in LADS

The Liaison and Diversion (LADS) team provides a service to individuals appearing at Somerset's criminal courts (Taunton, Yeovil and North Somerset Magistrates' Courts, and Taunton Crown Court) and to people who have been arrested and are detainees in police custody in Bridgwater. The service operates seven days a week, between 08:00 and 20:00. Staff predominantly work long days to cover these hours, although part-time hours may be considered. There is free onsite parking at Bridgwater Police Centre. The team is part of NHS England's national Liaison and Diversion programme and, with Avon and Wiltshire Partnership, provides LADS services across the wider Avon and Somerset police area. The team's primary role is to carry out mental health and vulnerability assessments in criminal justice settings, identify unmet needs, and support timely referral to appropriate services. Information is shared with criminal justice partners (with consent) to ensure that individuals' needs are understood and that police and courts can make informed decisions.,

• Complete rapid mental health and vulnerability assessments in police custody and courts.
• Produce clear written screening reports to support criminal justice decision-making.
• Share relevant information (with consent) with police, courts and partner agencies.
• Identify support needs and make referrals or signpost to appropriate services.
• Provide mental health advice and guidance to police, court professionals and other partners.
• Work autonomously, prioritising referrals and managing workload effectively.
• Contribute to service data returns, audits and ongoing service development.
• Participate in the rota covering police custody, courts and voluntary attender appointments
  
  At Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, we're committed to supporting our employees with a range of benefits designed to enhance your professional and personal life. We offer, Why Somerset? Somerset offers the perfect blend of idyllic countryside, outstanding areas of natural beauty, and breathtaking coastlines, with vibrant cities like Bristol, Bath, and Exeter just a short drive away - and only two hours to London.
The region is home to excellent educational facilities, and with affordable housing compared to other parts of the country, it's a great place to build both your career and your future. Somerset truly has it all - the peaceful countryside and cosmopolitan city life, with something for everyone to enjoy.


• Flexible working options to help you balance work and life
• NHS pension scheme for long-term financial security
• Generous annual leave allowance to recharge and relax
• A strong focus on career development to help you grow and achieve your potential
Additionally, you'll gain access to our Blue Light Card, unlocking exclusive discounts on shopping, dining, and leisure activities, as well as NHS-specific perks to support you both inside and outside of work.