Primary Care Network (PCN) Operational Manager | NELFT NHS Foundation Trust

We are seeking an experienced Operational Manager to oversee Children & Young People Mental Health Practitioners (CY MHPs) within Primary Care Networks (PCNs) across Essex. This role involves leading and supporting the CY MHPs, managing resources, and ensuring high-quality mental health services for young people. If you have a strong background in operational management and a passion for mental health, we would love to hear from you. Primary Care Networks (PCNs) are groups of general practices working closely together, along with other healthcare providers and community services, to deliver integrated and comprehensive primary care to local populations. They aim to improve the quality and accessibility of healthcare by fostering collaboration and resource sharing among practices, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and community health. Children & Young People Mental Health Practitioners (CY MHPs) are based within Primary Care Networks (PCNs) and provide mental health assessments, interventions, and advice to children, adolescents and families. They collaborate with healthcare providers, schools, and families to deliver comprehensive care, educate the community, and ensure the well-being of young people.

• Lead and provide operational support for Children & Young People Mental Health Practitioners (CYP MHPs) across Primary Care Networks (PCNs) in Essex.
• Act as the primary contact for the Head of Service, Assistant Director, and PCN Clinical Directors regarding mental health posts.
• Oversee finances and staff training allocations for PCN posts.
• Collaborate with the PCN Clinical Lead on team development.
• Compile and present update reports for NELFT management.
• Ensure the project stays within budget.
• Plan for long-term sustainability and workforce planning post initial funding.
• Assist in planning and executing public awareness events and education sector communications.
• Manage recruitment for PCN staff.
• Ensure adherence to Key Performance Indicators and provide detailed oversight of areas for improvement.
• Support staff wellbeing in collaboration with corporate services within the Trust.
Probationary Period This position will be subject to a probationary period. Internal applicants are exempt from this period unless they are currently undergoing probation or are bank staff. Starting with NELFT At NELFT, we prioritise a warm welcome and thorough induction for all new starters. New employees will join the Trust on the first Monday of each month and participate in a comprehensive induction program lasting up to two weeks. This program includes mandatory training, systems training, and equipment allocation. New starters will also have the opportunity to meet the executive team and senior managers, and attend various drop-in sessions focused on engagement, health and wellbeing, and key processes. The induction will take place at our head office in Rainham, Essex.


• Post-graduate qualification as a psychological practitioner (e.g., psychologist, family therapist, child and adolescent psychotherapist) or a graduate qualification as a healthcare professional (e.g., nurse, social worker, occupational therapist).
• Full registration with the appropriate professional or regulatory body (e.g., HCPC, NMC).
Skills and Attributes:
• Strong operational management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with mental health and wellbeing services.
• Commitment to providing high-quality, evidence-based services.
  
  Certain nominal bases qualify for a High Cost Area Supplement of 5% of the basic salary, ranging from a minimum of £1,192 to a maximum of £2,011 per annum (pro rata for part-time staff). The specific base will be discussed during the recruitment process.