Being a mental health nurse can provide a fascinating professional challenge, particularly as mental health awareness gains more exposure and mental health services attract more recognition.

Mental health nurse jobs involve working as part of a team that also includes GPs, psychologists, occupational therapists, social workers and others – all dedicated to ensuring a patient’s mental wellbeing.

Take a look at our latest mental health nurse vacancies.

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FAQs about being a Mental Health Nurse

  • What can I do with a mental health nursing degree?

    With the right level of experience, you could become a sister or ward manager, running a ward or team of nurses in the community. Then you could go on to become a matron or director of nursing.

    With further study and experience, you could become an advanced nurse practitioner (ANP), clinical nurse specialist (CNS) or nurse consultant. Consultants work directly and independently with patients, carry out research and develop and deliver training.

    You could also train in health visiting, become self-employed or work overseas.


  • What jobs can a mental health nurse do?

     

    • Mental health nurse (RMN)
    • Forensic staff nurse
    • Staff nurse with NHS child and adolescent mental health services
    • Research nurse
    • Psychiatric liaison nurse

  • How much does a newly qualified mental health nurse earn?

    The average salary for a newly qualified mental health nurse is £25,000.


  • What band is a mental health nurse in?

    An RMN starts at band 5. Some roles can fall within band 6.


  • What are the shift patterns for a mental health nurse?

    Shift patterns vary, but the traditional hours are:

    Early: 07:00 to 15:00

    Late: 13:00 to 21:00 

    Long day: 07:00 to 21:00

    Night: 21:00 to 07:00


  • Is there flexibility with shift patterns?

    We’re able to agree unique shift patterns for our nurses at various hospitals. Call us to talk through the shift patterns you want and we’ll see if we can help.


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