About this role
Job summary
Coombehaven is one of two wards at The Cedars in Exeter, where we provide assessment, care and treatment for people with mental health needs.
The aim of patients' stay is to aid recovery, helping them return to everyday life by finding the treatment that is right for them.
We're looking for someone to complement the range of existing creative therapeutic opportunities for patients by offering opportunities to engage with live music, either in a group or 1:1. Any instrument welcome.
Through this activity, you'll get to enhance people's in-patient experience and contribute to their wellbeing.
Main duties of the job
Prior to each session, to discuss with the ward team which patients may be appropriate for therapeutic engagement on the day, and any risks, etc. To play music of your own choice. To create a welcoming, open space in which participants feel safe and confident to get involved, but without pressure to participate. To assist in preparing a suitable physical environment for therapy to take place. Offer feedback to staff following sessions.
About us
About Devon Partnership Trust
We provide mental health, learning disability and neurodiversity services, as well as a range of specialist & secure services for the wider south west region & nationally. We are passionate about promoting good mental health & wellbeing. We strive to use the expertise & resources within our organisation, and through our partnerships, to deliver high quality services that are safe & focused on people's recovery.
We are committed to developing a culture of coproduction, involving patients, families & carers in everything we do
Our values
We not only recruit based on qualifications & experience - we recruit individuals who possess & demonstrate the behaviours which underpin our Trusts core values. These include such attributes as showing a commitment to quality of care, improving lives of others, giving respect, dignity & compassion. We can bring those values to life in our everyday tasks by giving a smile; making time for people; challenging ourselves & others, & being open to new ideas.
We are committed to being an inclusive employer & applications are encouraged & welcomed from all sections of the community, regardless of any protected characteristics as governed by the Equality Act 2010. Part time & flexible working applications will be considered & supported, where possible. We particularly encourage applicants with lived experience of mental health conditions, neurodiversity or learning disabilities. We are a Disability Confident Leader.
Job description Job responsibilities
Prior to each session, to discuss with the ward team which patients may be appropriate for therapeutic engagement on the day, and any risks, etc. To play music of your own choice. To create a welcoming, open space in which participants feel safe and confident to get involved, but without pressure to participate. To assist in preparing a suitable physical environment for therapy to take place. Offer feedback to staff following sessions.
Person Specification
Experience Essential
If playing an instrument, ability to bring it for sessions. Good interpersonal skills and a genuine interest in people. Some patients may have difficulty communicating verbally or may be non-verbal; some may be distressed. Having a flexible approach, being non-judgemental, patient and compassionate are key qualities as you will be working with people who may be acutely unwell. Be proactive and assertive in seeking support and direction from staff. Confidentiality is essential and we ask volunteers to be part of the team and be discreet and reliable. Know your boundaries and seek further information and support from ward staff if required.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check 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.
Employer details Employer name Devon Partnership NHS Trust
Address Coombehaven
The Cedars
Dryden Road
Exeter
Devon
EX2 5AF
United Kingdom
Employer's website https://www.dpt.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)