Principal Clinical Psychologist (Permanent)

About the role

The NHS Ayrshire & Arran is seeking a Principal Clinical Psychologist to join its Clinical Health Psychology Service at Ayrshire Central Hospital. This permanent, full‑time position (36 hours/week) offers the opportunity to work within multidisciplinary teams delivering specialist psychological care for general medicine and pain management patients.

Key responsibilities

• Provide expert psychological assessment, formulation and evidence‑based therapy for individuals with long‑term physical health conditions across acute medical specialties.
• Deliver specialised assessment and short‑ to medium‑term therapy for patients with persistent pain.
• Collaborate closely with nursing, medical and allied health professionals within multidisciplinary teams.
• Contribute to service development, audit and research activities within the Clinical Health Psychology Service.
• Participate in line‑management and supervision under the Consultant Clinical Psychologist/Lead for Clinical Health Psychology.

Required profile

• Registered Clinical Psychologist (HCPC) with extensive experience in health psychology.
• Demonstrated expertise in psychological assessment, formulation and therapeutic intervention for chronic illness and pain.
• Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary acute‑care environments.
• UK driving licence preferred.

Required skills

• Psychological assessment
• Formulation of health‑related psychological issues
• Therapeutic intervention (e.g., CBT, pain management programmes)
• Multidisciplinary team collaboration

What we offer

• Permanent contract with 36 hours per week (Monday‑Friday, 9 am‑5 pm).
• Job‑share possibilities and flexible working arrangements.
• Reduced working week from April 2026 without loss of earnings.
• Supportive, caring and respectful workplace culture.