Pioneering approach to our workforce

A new model for the workforce across our secure estate is delivering  both cost  improvements and better career opportunities.

Typically across the NHS, band 5 nurses are supported by staff at band 3. Our trust is pioneering a new approach which sees staff at bands 2 and 4 added to the workforce, a model which is rarely seen across the NHS.

The trust’s secure mental health services are piloting the approach. They first starting establishing a workforce of ward–based staff at bands 2 and 3 in 2014. Band 4s are starting in the service for the first time this month.

There are many benefits to the model. It frees up band 5 nurses to focus on more high level work, provides unregistered professionals with a career path and makes a financial saving.

Our band 4 role differs from the national role due to be piloted next year in that it doesn’t include either management or drugs administration. Our band 4 recruits will get the opportunity to work towards the national programme should it transpire. We are also an employment partner for the test sites of the national programme.