Job Description
Job summary
As a Healthcare Professional, you will be joining our team of clinicians who provide custody cover 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to assess and address the health needs of detained people, as well as conduct forensic medical examinations gathering evidence for use in the criminal justice system.
Main duties of the job
The role will involve conducting clinical assessments, medicines management, identifying and implementing appropriate interventions, collecting forensic samples, providing advice and guidance and maintaining detailed and accurate records to ensure the health, safety and welfare of detained people held in police custody.
Job description
- Provide a professional, responsive, and compassionate service to detained individuals in custody, supporting Custody Sergeants and Officers in assessing healthcare needs and ensuring an effective care pathway throughout detention.
- Carry out forensic sampling as required.
- Assess and determine an individuals fitness for detention, release, interview, and their capacity to understand processes and charges.
- Evaluate alcohol and drug intoxication and withdrawal, and obtain blood samples in accordance with the Road Traffic Act.
- Offer guidance and support to Custody Officers in identifying healthcare needs and prioritising care, seeking advice from the Lead Nurse or Consultant FME when necessary.
- Deliver forensic practitioner services in line with the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 Codes of Practice and local protocols.
- Adhere to NMC/HCPC codes of conduct, maintain professional development through training and experience, and promote the role of nurses within the custody setting.
- Maintain accurate, complete, and contemporaneous records, including injury documentation, ensuring all activities are properly logged using relevant systems.
- Stay up to date with current internal and external procedures and regulations.
- Collaborate with team members to consistently deliver a high quality service.
- Build and maintain positive working relationships with Consultant FMEs, doctors, custody staff, police officers, healthcare providers, drug referral workers, and partner organisations.
- Contribute to data collection for audits and continuous service improvement initiatives.
- Remain informed on current procedures and regulatory requirements.
- Act as a positive and committed team member, contributing to a supportive environment in what can be a challenging setting.
- Work collaboratively, sharing information openly and supporting colleagues to achieve team objectives.
- Support the training and development of new staff members.
- Assist with student nurse placements.
- Travel to other locations when required.
- Provide court statements in a timely manner.
- Promote a forward-thinking, solution-focused approach and share innovative ideas.
- Participate in clinical governance, supervision sessions, and team meetings to support learning and the sharing of best practice.