Role Name: Consultant Psychiatrist
Title: HEALTHCARE DOCTORS
Wages: £120,000 – £180,000
Job Description: Consultant Psychiatrist (UK)
1. Service Overview
This role is for a Consultant Psychiatrist in an acute psychiatric inpatient unit, focused on assessment and treatment of individuals experiencing severe mental health challenges. The service provides expert care in a therapeutic, safe environment for high-risk patients requiring hospitalization.
2. Clinical Model
2.1 Referrals
For working-age adults and older individuals with diagnosed mental health conditions or first-episode mental illness.
2.2 Referral Process
Referrals are managed through national bed management teams. A senior nurse and on-call doctor review documentation, risks, and clinical records. Admission decisions are made within one hour.
2.3 Conditions Treated
- Comorbid addiction disorders
• Anxiety disorders
• ADD assessments
• Autism spectrum assessments
• Bipolar disorder
• Depression
• Eating disorders (secondary)
• Personality disorders
• Psychosis & schizophrenia
• Self-harm & suicide risk cases
3. Local Working Arrangements
Positions available in Maidenhead, Norwich, Lincoln.
Work with a multidisciplinary team: consultants, psychologists, OTs, social workers, nurses & support staff.
4. Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
Five days study leave annually, plus funding for relevant training.
Must maintain good standing with Royal College of Psychiatrists.
5. Clinical Leadership & Management
- Promote clear roles within the team
• Support effective communication
• Oversee risk management & patient care
• Support quality improvement
• Encourage reflective practice & learning
6. Appraisal & Job Planning
Annual appraisal with a trained appraiser.
Job plan reviewed regularly with the Chief Medical Officer.
7. Induction & Research
Full induction provided.
Research participation encouraged, although no dedicated research sessions.
8. Clinical Governance
Ensure adherence to evidence-based practice, patient involvement and effective risk management.
9. Clinical Duties
- Inpatient psychiatric reviews
• Risk assessment & management
• Physical health checks (ECG, bloods)
• Liaison with general hospital medics
• Advice to MDT
• Compliance with NICE and prescribing policies
• Pre-admission assessments
• MHA tribunal reports
10. General Duties
- Maintain accurate records
• Participate in appraisals
• Comply with hospital policies
• Maintain GMC registration
11. Mental Health Act Approval
Encouraged to apply for Section 12(2) MHA training.
Approved Clinician (AC) status not required.
12. Office & Support
Personal workstation, secretarial support, email & internet access provided.
13. Work Schedule
Monday–Friday
09:00–17:30 (30-minute break)
10 programmed activities per week.
14. On-Call & Leave Cover
- Off-site on-call ~4 days/week
• Weekends: twice per month
• Leave approval required for adequate cover
15. Person Specification
Essential:
- Recognized medical degree
• Full GMC registration
• 8+ years hospital experience (Psychiatry/Pediatrics/Medicine)
• Experience in acute & community psychiatry
• Risk management knowledge
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to work independently & in MDT
• Enhanced DBS clearance
Desirable:
- Section 12(2) approval
• Forensic psychiatry experience
• Knowledge of UK hospital systems
16. Leave Entitlements
- 28 days annual leave (incl. Bank Holidays)
• 5 days study leave annually
• Leaves over 10 days require CEO approval
17. Supervision
- Clinical supervision by consultant
• Educational supervision every two weeks
18. Cross-Cover
- Arranged during staff absence
• Locum coverage for long-term leave
19. On-Call & Salary
- 1:4 on-call
• Sleeping/residential on-call duties
• Rest periods after busy shifts
• Base salary: £120K–£160K, with performance review
• No additional on-call payments
20. Training & Development
- One day per week for Master’s/postgraduate study
• One week study leave
• Mandatory online training + Intermediate Life Support