Community Mental Health Nurse | Durham, UK | Sponsorship Available

About the Role

Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Community Mental Health Nurse to join the Community Mental Health Team based at the Bowes Lyon Unit, Lanchester Road Hospital, Durham. This is a fixed-term 12-month opportunity offering an excellent environment for both experienced Registered Nurses and newly qualified nurses looking to build a rewarding career in community mental health services.

As a Community Mental Health Nurse, you will play a vital role in supporting older adults experiencing mental health challenges. Working closely with service users, families, carers, and multidisciplinary teams, you will deliver person-centred care that promotes recovery, independence, and improved quality of life. The Trust is committed to providing comprehensive training, mentorship, and professional development opportunities, including a structured Preceptorship Programme for newly registered nurses.

This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference within the local community while contributing to innovative service improvements and collaborative healthcare delivery. The role may also be eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, subject to UKVI eligibility requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive mental health assessments using a holistic and person-centred approach.
• Develop, implement, and review care plans in collaboration with service users, families, and carers.
• Deliver evidence-based nursing interventions to support mental health recovery and wellbeing.
• Work effectively within multidisciplinary teams to ensure coordinated and high-quality care.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date clinical records using electronic healthcare systems.
• Undertake clinical risk assessments and develop appropriate risk management plans.
• Administer medications and injections safely in line with clinical guidelines and Trust policies.
• Collaborate with external agencies, healthcare providers, and community organisations.
• Participate in service development initiatives and continuous quality improvement activities.
• Promote safeguarding principles and ensure compliance with relevant legislation and professional standards.

Candidate Requirements

Required

• Current registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) as RNMH, RNLD, or RGN where appropriate.
• Evidence of Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
• Experience working with individuals experiencing mental ill health and/or learning disabilities.
• Experience working within a person-centred therapeutic environment.
• Ability to work collaboratively with service users, carers, families, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Understanding of the Mental Health Act, Mental Capacity Act, safeguarding, and clinical governance.
• Knowledge of clinical risk assessment and management.
• Competency in medicines management and administration of injections.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organisational skills.
• Ability to travel independently throughout the locality for service delivery purposes.

Preferred

• Experience working within community mental health services.
• Practice Assessor/Mentor qualification or willingness to work towards it.
• Clinical Supervisor training or willingness to complete within probation period.
• Experience working with older adults within mental health settings.
• Experience supporting service improvement and innovation projects.

Job Details

Location: Bowes Lyon Unit, Lanchester Road Hospital, Durham, DH1 5RD, United Kingdom
Employer: Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust
Job Title: Community Mental Health Nurse
Job Type: Fixed-Term Contract
Contract Length: 12 Months
Working Pattern: Full-Time
Salary: £32,073 – £39,043 per annum
Pay Band: NHS Agenda for Change Band 5
Visa Sponsorship: Available for eligible candidates under the Skilled Worker route

Benefits

• Competitive NHS Band 5 salary package.
• Potential Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.
• Structured Preceptorship Programme for newly registered nurses.
• Ongoing professional development and career progression opportunities.
• Regular clinical, management, and caseload supervision.
• Supportive multidisciplinary working environment.
• Dedicated wellbeing champions and staff wellbeing initiatives.
• Inclusive workplace culture that celebrates diversity.
• Access to active staff network groups.
• Opportunities to contribute to service development and innovation.
• Flexible and supportive approach to learning and professional growth.

Why Join Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust?

Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust is recognised for delivering high-quality mental health and learning disability services while placing both patient care and staff wellbeing at the heart of everything it does. The Durham and Sedgefield North Community Mental Health Team is known for its collaborative, supportive, and forward-thinking culture, providing staff with opportunities to contribute meaningfully to service improvement and personalised care delivery.

The Trust values diversity, inclusion, and continuous learning. Employees are encouraged to develop professionally while working within a compassionate and innovative environment. Whether you are an experienced practitioner or a newly qualified nurse, you will receive the support and resources needed to build a successful and fulfilling career.

Application Process

Interested applicants should submit their application through the NHS Jobs recruitment portal before the closing date.

Before applying, candidates are encouraged to review the full Job Description and Person Specification to ensure they meet the essential criteria.

Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews and further assessments as part of the recruitment process. Due to the volume of applications received, only shortlisted applicants may be contacted.

Closing Date: 9 June 2026

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is visa sponsorship available for this role?
Yes. This position may be eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, subject to UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requirements and candidate eligibility.

Can newly qualified nurses apply?
Yes. Newly Registered Nurses and Student Nurses expecting registration within the next three months are encouraged to apply. Full training and a Preceptorship Programme are provided.

What is the salary for this position?
The salary ranges from £32,073 to £39,043 per annum under NHS Agenda for Change Band 5.

Is previous community mental health experience required?
Previous experience working with individuals experiencing mental ill health is essential. Community mental health experience is beneficial but not always mandatory.

Will I need to travel as part of the role?
Yes. Due to the community-based nature of the position, candidates must be able to travel independently throughout the locality and have access to suitable transport for business purposes.

What professional registration is required?
Applicants must hold current registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) in an appropriate nursing discipline before commencing employment.