Community Practitioner

Job summary
Our Memory Protection service provides specialist assessment, diagnosis and treatment for those experiencing early stages of dementia and mild memory difficulties. It is an ageless service covering Sunderland, Gateshead and south Tyneside. The multi-disciplinary team comprises a highly skilled and experienced workforce of Consultant Psychiatrists, Nurses, Psychologists, and Occupational Therapists

We have close working relationships with a range of professionals including community treatment team, Social Care and other partnership organizations.

We have developed a comprehensive supervision structure for staff including individual supervision and peer support. We believe in the development of all our staff and encourage personal development.

Main duties of the job
We are keen to recruit a Band 6 Practitioner preferably with experience in working with older adults and with experience of collaborative working with both partner agencies and the multi-disciplinary team.

The main role includes comprehensive assessment, diagnostic support and education.

Work collaboratively with the MDT

Support to carers and families via education and information

Signposting to other agencies where appropriate

About us
We aim to attract and retain a diverse, talented and committed workforce, who are caring and compassionate, and therefore able to meet the demands of the modern NHS now and in the future. In return we can offer a dynamic working environment in which to build a career.

Job responsibilities
Our Community Practitioners are expected to undertake comprehensive assessment, and support individuals experiencing memory loss or mild cognitive decline through the diagnostic pathway.

Please find attached job description for full details.

Advertising date : 9th October 2026

Closing date : 23rd October 2026

We welcome your application.

Person Specification
Education and Qualification
Essential

• Professional Qualification and current Professional Registration as, a First Level Registered Nurse (RNMH, RMN, RNLD) or equivalent as an AHP, Social Worker or Clinical Psychologist
• Mentor Training
• Evidence of post-registration training in clinical/ psychological / skills relevant to the post.
• Proven track record of post registration clinical experience relevant to the post.
• Training in CPA (Care Programme Approach), Safeguarding, MAPPA (Multi Agency Panel for the Protection of Vulnerable Adults) and Child Protection.
• Up-to-date knowledge/experience of relevant legislation.

Desirable

• Experience of working within a memory service/ community team.
• Non-Medical Prescribing

Knowledge and Experience
Essential

• 12 to 24 month band 5 qualified nurse experience dependent upon service need.
• Awareness and understanding of professional accountability, NMC standards and other local and national initiatives.

Desirable

• Knowledge of older adult pathways/ dementia services

Skills and Competencies
Essential

• Proven ability to carry out and provide comprehensive written assessments of individuals with complex mental health needs.
• Risk Assessment and Risk Management / Safety Planning skills.
• Demonstrate an understanding of effective & appropriate treatment options including a range of evidence based clinical approaches as identified in N.I.C.E. Guidance).
• Demonstrate effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Evidence of a high level of professional, organisational and leadership skills (self & others).
• Ability to adapt within a changing environment.
• Ability to work under pressure.

Desirable

• Clinical Leadership.
• Training & Induction of staff.
• Delegation skills.
• Debriefing skills.
• Teaching/Presentation skills.

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).