Senior Band 6 Nurse – Substance Misuse

About the role

The Forward Trust is seeking a Senior Band 6 Nurse specialising in substance misuse to work within Surrey prisons. The role involves delivering high‑quality clinical assessment, treatment and support to prisoners on their recovery journey, in partnership with HM Prison Service and other stakeholders.

Key responsibilities

• Deliver safe, effective nursing care through assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation.
• Work autonomously while collaborating with multidisciplinary and external partners.
• Handle sensitive information professionally, maintaining confidentiality.
• Promote physical and psychological wellbeing, manage risk and safeguarding concerns.
• Administer and monitor prescribed medication in line with clinical protocols.
• Contribute to service development and continuous improvement of interventions.
• Provide leadership and clinical supervision to junior staff, deputise for the Lead Nurse when required.
• Participate in clinical governance meetings and quality improvement initiatives.
• Maintain accurate documentation in accordance with NMC and Forward Trust standards.
• Commit to continuous professional development and meet NMC revalidation requirements.
• Represent The Forward Trust and HM Prison Service with professionalism and integrity.

Required profile

• Registered Nurse with current NMC registration.
• Experience in substance misuse or mental health nursing, preferably within secure settings.
• Proven ability to manage a complex caseload and deliver evidence‑based interventions.
• Understanding of clinical governance, risk management and safeguarding.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Previous management or supervisory experience (desired).
• Willingness to undergo enhanced DBS checks and HMPPS security vetting.

Required skills

• NMC registration
• Clinical assessment
• Medication administration
• Case management
• Evidence‑based intervention delivery
• Clinical governance documentation

What we offer

• Competitive salary £37,338‑£44,962 per annum.
• Permanent contract with opportunities for leadership development.
• Supportive multidisciplinary environment focused on recovery.
• Access to continuous professional development and training.
• Contribution to service improvement within a specialist prison health setting.