Job summary
An exciting opportunity has arisen in the Autism Diagnostic service, for a Band 6 Community Practitioner based at Keegan Court, Gateshead.
This post is Trust wide and may require working in any geographical area covered by CNTW (currently with the exception of Cumbria) with clinical activity being within a clinic setting.
We are seeking a highly motivated clinician to undertake Autism assessments and offer follow up appointments thereafter.
Experience in working with older adults is beneficial. The post holder will provide assessment and guidance functions. The post holder will be a lead professional working not only with the Multi Disciplinary Team but also working with other agencies.
You will possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills. You will have the ability to work both independently and within a team. You will demonstrate the ability to liaise with different agencies. You will need to be skilled and comfortable in dealing with clients who have multiple and complex needs, including issues around risk management. This post holder will be required to work predominantly Monday to Friday.

Main duties of the job
To be responsible for the Autism assessment under direction of the clinical team.
Provide specialist clinical advice to Service Users/Carers regarding their pathway within the Autism service.
In collaboration with the Service User and Carer where appropriate, develop Care Plans, ensuring regular reviews to monitor progress and adapt Care Plan as necessary.
To consider Carer needs and ensure Carer and family are involved in Care Planning where appropriate.
The post holder will work as a member of the Multi-disciplinary Team ensuring that high quality individualised care is delivered which ensures safety and a commitment to promoting recovery and wellbeing and maximising independence.
Provide clinical supervision to staff as delegated by Pathway Manager.
To provide compassionate care that is based on empathy, kindness, respect and dignity.
To incorporate a client centred philosophy into nursing practice and client centred collaborative care.

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.

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 skills relevant to the post.
• Proven track record of post registration clinical experience relevant to the post.
• Up-to-date knowledge/experience of relevant legislation.
• Training in CPA (Care Programme Approach), Safeguarding, MAPPA (Multi Agency Panel for the Protection of Vulnerable Adults) and Child Protection.

Desirable

• Post Registration Qualifications in Psychological Interventions
• Experience of working within a community team.

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

• Experience of working with people with Autism

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 effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Evidence of a high level of professional, organisational and leadership skills (self & others).
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Ability to use electronic recording and relevant IT equipment.
• Ability to work effectively with other professionals using a multi-agency approach.
• Ability to work autonomously and within a team.
• Excellent time and case management 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.
The closing date is 28 July 2026.