252049 (GH) Clinical Psychologist – Band 8a

Job Description

NHS Scotland is committed to encouraging equality and diversity among our workforce and eliminating unlawful discrimination. The aim is for our workforce to be truly representative and for each employee to feel respected and able to give their best. To this end, NHS Scotland welcomes applications from all sections of society.

Job Overview

Clinical Psychologist Band 8a – 0.6 WTE (Fixed Term 5 Months) for maternity cover in the South East Edinburgh Community Mental Health Team, based at Ballenden House, Edinburgh.

We are looking for an experienced clinical psychologist to provide a highly specialist psychology service to individuals presenting with severe and complex mental health problems. The role involves assessment, formulation, individual and group therapy, multidisciplinary team support, teaching and training, and collaboration with a part time psychology colleague.

Responsibilities

• Provide specialist psychological assessments, formulation and application of psychological models and associated therapies.
• Deliver individual and group psychotherapy to service users.
• Support multidisciplinary staff through shared assessments, psychological and team formulation, reflective practice, and consultancy.
• Teach and train the Community Mental Health Team as required.
• Work cooperatively with a part time psychology colleague within the CMHT.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Clinical psychologist with experience in severe and complex mental health presentations.
• Recently completed clinical training is preferred.
• PVG Scheme membership or record for the relevant regulatory group (child and/or adult) is required. If not a current member, a Disclosure Scotland application will be necessary before commencing work.
• Availability for a fixed 5 month maternity cover term or alternative working patterns such as 0.3 WTE for 10 months may be considered.
• Legal right to work in the United Kingdom under the UK Visa and Immigration Service.
• Familiarity with potential changes to criminal records checks and Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) requirements introduced from 1 April 2025.

Benefits and Working Conditions

• Salary pro rata for the part time position.
• Strong commitment to professional development and support for trainees.
• Reasonable adjustments will be made to accommodate disabled candidates, long term conditions, and neurodivergent applicants.
• Paid holidays and standard NHS welfare benefits.

For more details on potential changes to criminal checks, see Disclosure Scotland Changes.