Specialist Clinical Psychologist Stroke, Band 8b

This is a fixed term maternity cover post which will provide clinical input, consultancy and training to the Acute and Hyper Acute Stroke Ward at Cheltenham General Hospital, the Stroke Rehabilitation Unit based at The Vale Community Hospital, Dursley, and the community based Early Supported Discharge Team. This 8b post therefore offers the rare opportunity to develop and oversee the psychological care of stroke patients and their families across all areas of the stroke pathway from hyper acute to community outpatients., The post holder will:Provide oversight, co-ordination, and development of a psychologically informed approach to stroke patient wellbeing across the Gloucestershire Stroke Pathway from Hyper Acute Inpatient right through to Community Early Supported Discharge.

Duties will include:Psychological and neuropsychological assessment and treatment of stroke inpatients in both acute and rehabilitation stroke units and in the community based Early Supported Discharge Team.

Development of training for staff teams across the pathway to enhance the continuity of care and clinical experience for patients.

Interdisciplinary working contributing to a coherent goal-directed rehabilitation service.

Establishing and embedding best patient care initiatives such as specialist group work.

A commitment to the provision of evidence-based health care is essential as is experience in neuropsychological assessment and the ability to assess creatively and functionally. You also require a good understanding of the psychological factors influencing physical health and delivery of health care, excellent interpersonal and communication skills, as well as an appreciation of the need to adjust therapeutic input to take into account the presence of cognitive impairment. Enthusiasm, commitment and an ability to work as part of a team are essential.

We can offer you:An autonomous 8b role to cover maternity leave

An innovative, stimulating and well organised environment - part of a well-established Clinical Health Psychology department employing a range of applied psychologists

A friendly and supportive team of colleagues, excellent peer support and regular supervision, with an informal and relaxed atmosphere.

A commitment to the training and support of applied psychologists and active involvement in the local clinical doctoral courses.

Dedicated time within the role for advancing special interests and professional development.

While the post holder will spend time at both Cheltenham General Hospital and The Vale Community Hospital, they will be part of a team of 7 other psychologists delivering a service to neurological rehabilitation in GHNHSFT, a team known for excellent peer support.