Join Us as We Reopen Our New CAMHS Inpatient Unit
We are recruiting a Band 6 Charge Nurse / Deputy Ward Manager to join our newly redesigned Children and Young People’s Mental Health Inpatient Unit, reopening in Autumn 2026.
Following extensive co-design with young people, families and staff, and significant investment in our workforce and therapeutic model, this is an exciting opportunity to be part of a modern, recovery-focused inpatient service delivering high-quality, purposeful care to young people (aged 12-up to 18th birthday) with acute mental health needs.
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Location
The unit is based in Haywards Heath, West Sussex, with on-site parking and offering excellent rail links to London (under 45 minutes), close proximity to Gatwick Airport, and easy access to both the Sussex coast and South Downs.
About the unit
Our refreshed clinical model includes purposeful admissions, structured care with early review points, strong links with COAST (Crisis Outreach Acute Support Team), and a 7-day therapeutic timetable including evenings and weekends.
You will work as part of a highly skilled multidisciplinary team, supporting young people, families and carers through assessment, treatment and discharge planning in a therapeutic inpatient environment.
This role is ideal for an experienced registered nurse ready to take the next step in leadership within CAMHS inpatient care.
Main duties of the job
Undertake comprehensive mental health and risk assessments for young people with complex needs
Act as named nurse and care coordinator, contributing to care review processes and mental health tribunals
Deliver and evaluate person-centred, trauma-informed nursing interventions
Provide clinical leadership and act as a senior decision maker during shifts
Regularly take charge of the ward, coordinating care delivery and staffing
Support the Ward Manager with operational duties, including rota coordination, staff supervision and quality monitoring
Supervise, mentor and support junior staff and students
Work closely with families, carers and partner agencies to support effective discharge planning
Contribute to service development, audit and quality improvement initiatives
Maintain high standards of documentation, governance and safeguarding practice
Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust delivers specialist mental health, learning disability and neurodevelopmental services across Sussex. This post sits within our Specialist CAMHS Services, offering opportunities to work closely with acute, community and crisis pathway colleagues.
We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, and to creating a compassionate, supportive working environment where staff feel valued, developed and able to deliver their best care.
Incentives
If you are joining as a Band 6 Nurse, you would be eligible for up to £2,000 through our Golden Hello or Accommodation/Relocation Allowance (subject to terms and conditions).
Eligibility includes external candidates, those returning after 24 months, and candidates relocating 30+ miles closer to the work base.
What we can offer you
- A supportive leadership team and strong MDT culture
High-quality clinical and managerial supervision
Access to CPD, specialist CAMHS training and leadership development
Career progression opportunities within inpatient and wider CAMHS services
NHS Pension Scheme and Agenda for Change benefits
If you are looking for a leadership role where you can make a real difference to young people and their families, we would love to hear from you.
As a Band 6 Charge Nurse / Deputy Ward Manager, you will provide senior clinical leadership on shift and support the Ward Manager in the day-to-day operational management of the ward.
You will play a key role in ensuring safe, effective and person-centred care, supporting staff development, maintaining high standards of clinical practice, and contributing to service improvement and quality initiatives.
You will work closely with the multidisciplinary team, families and partner agencies to support positive outcomes for young people and ensure effective care planning and discharge processes.
Person specification
Essential criteria
Registered Mental Health Nurse with post-registration experience
Experience working with children and young people in mental health settings
Strong clinical skills and risk assessment capability
Confidence in leading shifts and supporting junior staff
A compassionate, recovery-focused and trauma-informed approach
Commitment to high standards of care, safety and continuous improvement
