Assistant Psychologist

Job summary

The purpose of ABLs Be U Norfolk service is to support adults who are on the autism pathway through support in challenges they may be experiencing, build on strengths and formally assess where required.

Main duties of the job

As an Assistant Psychologist, you will support the delivery of a high-quality autism diagnostic service for adults across Norfolk, working alongside the multidisciplinary team to assist with referrals, screening, assessments and the preparation of diagnostic reports. You will provide information and support to clients, families, carers and professionals, contribute to appropriate assessments and care pathways, and ensure accurate and confidential client records are maintained. You will work collaboratively with colleagues, participate in clinical and managerial supervision, and contribute to evidence-based practice, audit, quality assurance, research and service improvement. You will manage delegated tasks effectively, maintain professional standards and mandatory training, and support the Service Lead and wider team with reporting, projects and other responsibilities as required.

About us

ABL is an exciting fast-paced, growing community health organisation. As an experienced, CQC registered, provider of community health services, we are passionate about delivering evidence based, innovative, effective, and relevant health care services in partnership with individuals, communities and stakeholders.

Job responsibilities

Be U Norfolk comprises a team of specialised clinicians who provide diagnostic assessments for those on the NHS autism assessment pathway. The post holder will work within a multidisciplinary team to provide autism assessments for adults.

Assessments will be carried out in line with relevant clinical pathways as outlined within Be U Norfolks operational procedure. The post holder will demonstrate an attitude which respects and values clients and their carers.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• To deliver a high quality, effective and efficient autism diagnostic service to adults across Norfolk.
• To assist other team members with the diagnostic process for those suspected of being autistic.
• Assist with the appropriate screening of referrals and provide information for referrers, clients, and carers.
• To support with formulating reports, explaining the persons diagnosis for a range of audiences including client, families, and other professionals.
• To liaise regularly with line manager providing them with an update of caseload.
• Ensure assessment is provided in a range of settings suitable to meet the needs of the clients.
• Work in a professional and collaborative manner with the multi-disciplinary team.
• Provide information, education and support for the client, family members, carers and other relevant professionals.
• Participate and promote positive multi-disciplinary team working.
• Participate in regular clinical and managerial supervision with Clinical Lead/Service Lead, as per ABL Health policy.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of integrated care pathways, including appropriate assessments/referrals and models of care.

Compile and maintain effective client records and record outcome measures in conjunction with clients and in accordance with ABL Health policies, procedures, and standards.

Participate and assist in setting standards of client care based on sound research findings and evidence-based practice.

Undertake delegated responsibilities as agreed with the Service Lead and Clinical Supervisor.

To manage projects as delegated.

To monitor and evaluate own clinical practice against professional standards, guidelines and policies.

To advise the Service Lead of any service delivery issues.

To identify the need for, and to request, new equipment, resources and assessment tools.

Support the process of staff participation in the formulation of new ideas/suggestions to improve client care and service delivery.

Provide statistical information as required.

Education and Development

Attend relevant and mandatory training as required.

Attend professional meetings as required.

Maintain knowledge of current ABL Health policy, procedures, and guidance.

Demonstrate the acquisition and application of knowledge in line with current research and evidence-based practice.

Undertake training relevant to your role and responsibilities and promote a positive learning environment.

Participate in regular supervision, engage in reflective practice, and be committed to continued development.

Develop own skills and knowledge.

Research and audit

Undertake and participate in appropriate audit, quality assurance programmes and research as directed.

To identify the need for and to contribute to audit within areas of expertise. To use research methodology for specific audits.

To participate in and contribute to research at local and regional levels as appropriate.

Please note that this job description is not exhaustive. The post holder may have specific skills which mean that they may work outside of the competency boundaries for this role.

Review of this Job Description

This job description is intended as an outline of the general areas of activity and will be amended in the light of the changing needs of the organisation. To be reviewed in conjunction with the post holder.

Other Duties

There may be a requirement to undertake other duties as may reasonably be required to support Be U Norfolk service.

Please note that we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role

Person specification

Qualifications

Essential

• A BPS accredited recognised degree in Psychology conferring Graduate Basis for Registration (GBR)

Desirable

• ADOS and ADIr certification

Experience

Essential

• Experience with adults who have complex communication, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Language Delay
• Strong literacy and report writing skills, with excellent accuracy and attention to detail.
• Effective computer literacy skills, including use of Microsoft Office
• Effective communication skills with both clients and staff

Desirable

• Experience working with adults in a CAMHS or other healthcare setting, including childrens healthcare setting
• Experience in administering and reporting ADOS and ADIr assessments
• Knowledge of the ICD-11 diagnostic criteria
• Experience of working cross organisation to achieve outcomes