Job Overview
We are seeking a Consultant in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry to join our dedicated team at Forest House Adolescent Unit. This is an exceptional opportunity for international medical professionals looking to relocate to the United Kingdom with certificate of sponsorship support. The Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust is committed to providing world-class mental health services and welcomes applications from qualified candidates worldwide.
About Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust
HPFT has established itself as a leading mental health provider in the UK, successfully expanding its specialist Learning Disability services across Norfolk, North Essex, and Buckinghamshire over the past 12 years. Our Trust serves a diverse mix of rural and urban communities throughout Hertfordshire, including the historic City of St Albans, major towns like Watford and Stevenage, and charming smaller communities across the county.
Location and Facilities
Forest House Adolescent Unit is located at Kingfisher Court, Harper Lane, Kingsley Green, Radlett WD7 9HQ. This specialist psychiatric inpatient unit has recently undergone extensive refurbishment and expansion to 16 beds, including dedicated facilities for acute admissions. As the primary inpatient adolescent unit for the East of England NHS region, we provide exceptional care to children and young people aged 13-18.
Position Details
This permanent part-time Consultant position offers a competitive salary range of £105,504 to £139,882 per annum pro rata. The successful candidate will join our established consultant workforce, working alongside one substantive consultant and a comprehensive medical team including Specialty Doctors, GP trainees, and Psychiatry Specialty and Core Trainees.
Certificate of Sponsorship
We are pleased to offer Certificate of Sponsorship for eligible international candidates. Applications from job seekers requiring current Skilled Worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. This represents an excellent relocation opportunity for qualified psychiatrists seeking to build their career in the UK healthcare system.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
The successful candidate will complement and support our Senior Leadership Team, working collaboratively with the Therapy Lead, Modern Matron, Team Leaders, Consultant Social Worker, and Home Treatment Team Lead to deliver the highest standards of care. Key responsibilities include contributing to operational management and clinical governance while providing expert psychiatric care to our adolescent patients.
Clinical Leadership
You will manage, appraise, and provide professional supervision to junior medical staff in accordance with Trust policies and procedures. This includes assessing competencies under the Modernising Medical Careers framework and ensuring all junior staff operate within Working Time Directive compliance parameters.
Multi-Disciplinary Team Environment
Our Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) operate within the Specialist Services Strategic Business Unit, managed by Clinical Director Dr. Shaheen Shora. The service accepts referrals from multiple sources including General Practitioners, Social Workers, Health Visitors, and Consultant Paediatricians through our Single Point of Access (SPA) system.
Team Composition
Our multi-disciplinary teams include Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Mental Health Nurses, Child Psychotherapists, Systemic Therapists, and Social Workers. These teams currently receive approximately 250 referrals per month across Hertfordshire, operating on an outpatient model while supporting our inpatient unit.
Admission Process and Specialized Care
Forest House admits children through a carefully planned assessment process that includes thorough family consultation and close liaison with local CAMHS Tier 3 teams. We also maintain specialized provision for eating disorder admissions under the supervision of our dedicated Eating Disorder Service, ensuring comprehensive care for all patients.
Essential Qualifications and Experience
Candidates must possess an MB BS or equivalent medical qualification and be fully registered with the GMC with a license to practise at the time of appointment. Higher qualifications in psychiatry such as MRCPsych or equivalent Royal College of Psychiatrists-approved qualifications are essential.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must hold CCT in Psychiatry, be included on the GMC Specialist Register in psychiatry, or be within six months of achieving CCT/CESR at interview time. Section 12/Approved clinician approval is mandatory. International candidates should ensure their qualifications meet UK equivalence standards.
Clinical Skills and Knowledge
The ideal candidate will demonstrate experience across the full range of clinical responsibilities expected of a consultant in child and adolescent services. This includes proven experience in close collaborative working with social care and other agencies, managing service users with complex needs, and excellent clinical skills using bio-psycho-social perspectives.
Communication and Teamwork
Excellent oral and written communication skills are essential, along with the ability to manage clinical complexity and uncertainty. Candidates should demonstrate experience working in multi-disciplinary teams and possess comprehensive knowledge of safeguarding procedures in child and adolescent mental health.
Academic Skills and Lifelong Learning
We seek candidates capable of delivering undergraduate or postgraduate teaching and training, with active participation in continuous professional development. Experience in research or service evaluation, ability to use and appraise clinical evidence, and active participation in clinical audit are required.
Additional Requirements
All applicants must hold a full valid driving license and have access to a car (unless exempt under disability legislation). For international candidates, we provide support with understanding UK driving requirements and transportation logistics during relocation.
Application Process for International Candidates
International applicants should apply through the NHS Jobs website and will undergo the same rigorous selection process as UK-based candidates. Our recruitment team provides comprehensive support throughout the application and relocation process, including assistance with GMC registration, visa applications, and settling into UK practice.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975, requiring Disclosure and Barring Service checks for any previous criminal convictions. International applicants must present criminal record certificates from each country resided in continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.
UK Registration Requirements
All applicants must have current UK professional registration. International medical professionals should consult the NHS Careers website for information on overseas health professional registration processes. We provide guidance and support throughout this registration journey.
Employer Accreditation and Support
HPFT holds multiple accreditations including Disability Confident Employer, Happy to Talk Flexible Working, and Veteran Aware status. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace that supports all staff members, including those relocating from overseas.
Relocation Support
We offer comprehensive relocation support packages for international candidates, including assistance with accommodation, school placements for families, and cultural orientation programs. Our dedicated international recruitment team ensures smooth transition into UK healthcare practice.
Contact Information
For questions about this position, please contact Dr. Rania Moussa, Medical Lead, at [email protected]. Dr. Moussa can provide detailed information about the role, relocation process, and support available for international candidates.
Application Deadline
The closing date for applications is 05 October 2025. Early application is encouraged, particularly for international candidates who may require additional time for visa processing and relocation arrangements.
Why Choose HPFT?
Joining HPFT means becoming part of an organization that values diversity, innovation, and excellence in mental health care. We offer exceptional professional development opportunities, supportive team environments, and the chance to make a significant impact on adolescent mental health services in the UK.
Professional Growth
We provide extensive opportunities for professional growth including access to academic programs, research opportunities, and leadership development. Our consultants participate in annual appraisal processes and benefit from structured career progression pathways.
Life in Hertfordshire
Hertfordshire offers an excellent quality of life with beautiful countryside, historic market towns, and excellent transport links to London. The area boasts outstanding schools, cultural attractions, and recreational facilities, making it an ideal location for professionals and families relocating to the UK.
Commitment to Diversity
We actively encourage applications from all sections of the community, particularly those from underrepresented groups. Our Trust celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment where all staff can thrive and contribute to their fullest potential.
