Senior Charge Nurse

NHS Ayrshire and Arran is one of 14 territorial NHS Boards within NHS Scotland. We are committed to a culture that is Caring, Safe, and Respectful, supporting our core purpose of working together to achieve the healthiest life possible for everyone in Ayrshire and Arran.

About the role

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Senior Charge Nurse within our Mental Health Inpatient Service based at Ward 11, Woodland View, Ayrshire Central Hospital. This post is offered on a permanent basis.

Schedule

• 36 hours per week
• Monday to Friday, 8am–4pm

From 1 April 2026, the working week for NHS Agenda for Change staff in Scotland will reduce from 37 to 36 hours (pro rata for part-time staff) without loss of earnings.

Responsibilities

The post holder carries 24-hour continuing responsibility for their ward/department and will provide clinical leadership to the nursing team. Key duties include:

• Lead and develop the nursing team in the provision of care for individuals experiencing mental health difficulties
• Manage the team of nursing staff within the inpatient Mental Health Service
• Lead the nursing team in the provision of safe and effective clinical practice
• Enhance the patients’ experience of care
• Manage and develop the performance of the team
• Contribute to the delivery of organisational objectives
• Manage the budget for the ward/department
• Coordinate care within the multidisciplinary team
• Plan the direction of service provision

Requirements

• First-level Mental Health nursing qualification and current registration with the NMC, with evidence of continuing professional development
• Significant experience of working within the inpatient setting and of being nurse in charge
• Band 6 experience would be advantageous

Right to Work

To work in the United Kingdom, you must demonstrate that you have the relevant permission to work in the country, granted by the UK Visa and Immigration Service. NHS Ayrshire & Arran may offer visa sponsorship for this role if it meets the minimum salary threshold and other required criteria. Sponsorship is assessed on a case-by-case basis following interview and at the commencement of pre-employment checks. Band 2 posts or bank contracts are not eligible for sponsorship.