Job overview

The Memory Assessment Service provides specialist assessment, diagnosis and treatment for those with suspected dementia. The focus is to assess patients referred where there has been a noticeable change or concerns with memory, cognitive function, behaviour or function.
We are looking to recruit a Mental Health Practitioner with experience in working with Dementia into the skill mix of the team. The successful candidate would be based at Charnley Fold Bamber Bridge however, travel to satellite clinics and provide home based assessments is included as part of the job role.
This is an exciting opportunity and the successful candidate will be part of an evolving service that has the needs of the older adult population at its heart; and who are enthusiastic to come and join a forward thinking, dynamic and constantly developing team.
The post holder must have proven clinical skills along with excellent communication skills, good knowledge and understanding of dementia and the needs of individuals diagnosed with this condition. For this position it is essential that you have post qualification experience and be able to demonstrate a high degree of clinical skills and knowledge. Please see the job description and person specification for more details of essential and desirable skills.

Main duties of the job

•    To complete specialist cognitive assessment, following the consultation model, working toward possible diagnosis of an individual. 
•    To oversee medication titrations and medication monitoring
•    To liaise with GP regarding medication changes and ensure medications are supplied.
•    To fully participate in the continuous improvement of the service and the implementation of the operational and clinical policies.
•    Professional Conduct, Professional Standards and National, Trust and local Policies and Procedures.
•    Demonstrate the sharing of knowledge, skills and attitudes to others.
•    Participate in multi-disciplinary meetings with the aim of improving clinical practice.
•    Must be willing to travel across the Preston, Chorley and South Ribble to undertake home visits, this will require the use of a car- travel expenses will be paid. 
•    To be proficient in referring to other agencies within the service or referring to other services or agencies where necessary. 
•    To confidently identify risk factors and action accordingly.
•    Provide a communication structure between GP’s and other services in LCFT, non-statutory services, as a means of ensuring highest possible standards of patient care. 
•    To provide mentoring and clinical supervision to other staff and trainees on placement.

Working for our organisation

LSCFT values diversity and inclusion, recognising that talent from varied backgrounds creates a flexible, creative, and effective workforce. We actively challenge discrimination and welcome applications from all, regardless of age, disability (including those with experience of accessing or caring for someone who has accessed mental health or learning disability services), ethnicity, gender, religion, belief, or sexual orientation.

Our aim is to reflect the communities we serve, so we particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups. If you’d like to discuss your application, please ask.

We also welcome individuals with lived experience relevant to the role or service area, as your insight brings authenticity to our services.

LSCFT support flexible working, we believe that a positive work/life balance benefits NHS employees through improved health and wellbeing. We would consider working patterns such as term time, part time, compressed hours and flexi-time.