Cornwall CAMHS is recruiting three Trainee Clinical Associate Psychologists (CAPs) to join the West and Mid teams. This development role offers a structured training pathway in partnership with Plymouth University, combining academic study with supervised clinical practice, and progression to Band 6 on successful completion.
Working within an i-THRIVE model, trainees will deliver needs-led, person-centred care to children, young people and families, supporting assessment, formulation and evidence-based interventions. The role involves close multidisciplinary working, outcome monitoring, and contributing to service development and quality improvement.
Trainees will develop key clinical competencies under supervision, building confidence, autonomy and professional judgement within a supportive learning environment. This role is ideal for individuals interested in clinical psychology and child and adolescent mental health, offering a strong foundation for future progression within psychological professions.
Cornwall CAMHS is committed to providing timely, effective, evidence-based care tailored to individual need.
This is a trainee position offered on a permanent contract, subject to successful completion of the required training programme. Failure to complete the programme may result in termination of employment.
A CAP is a semi-autonomous practitioner psychologist working under the direct supervision of an HCPC-registered practitioner psychologist, within clearly defined limits of competence
CAPs are scientist-practitioners who apply psychological knowledge, research and theory to reduce distress and improve psychological wellbeing
Work with specific client groups (children, young people and families) within CAMHS, including those presenting with complex needs, contributing psychological perspectives within a multidisciplinary team
Support the delivery of formulation-driven, evidence-based interventions, in line with national (e.g. NICE) and local guidelines
Hold a defined caseload appropriate to level of training and competence, with regular supervision to support clinical decision-making
Contribute to assessment, formulation, intervention and evaluation of care, under supervision
Work collaboratively with families, carers and the wider system, in line with CAMHS and i-THRIVE principles
Maintain a compassionate, safe and developmentally appropriate therapeutic environment
We’re an NHS community and mental health provider Trust based in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. We deliver community and hospital-based care to improve people’s physical and mental health. We also provide specialist support to people with dementia or a learning disability.
We are a people organisation and people matter to us. As part of the team, you’ll help support the health and wellbeing of the people who live and visit this beautiful part of the UK.
Over 5,000 people make up the Trust. This includes doctors, nurses, therapists, plus admin and support staff.
We work in people’s homes, in community clinics and bases. Some staff work from one of our 10 community hospitals. Our aspiration is to have great people, provide great care, be a great place to work and a great partner.
Approximately 568,000 people live here. A third of people who live in Cornwall are supported by acute hospital services in Devon. As a result, we also work closely with our partners in Devon. In the summer, and during other holidays lots of people choose to visit the area. This increase the numbers of people who use out services.
To view a detailed job description and person specification including the main responsibilities of this role please see ‘supporting documents’.
This job is currently only open to people who already work for the NHS in Cornwall or the Isles of Scilly.
We are committed to supporting our dedicated staff, so only current employees of the following organisations can apply:
Cornwall Foundation Trust
Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust
Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board
If you do not currently work for one of these NHS organisations, your application will not be considered at this time.
