How to Write a Mental Health Job Advert That Attracts Registered Clinicians

In a market where specialist clinicians have choices, your advert competes with dozens of similar ones. Here's how to make it count.

1. Use the title candidates search for

Write "Mental Health Nurse (RMN), Community, Band 6" rather than "Clinician II". Put the profession, setting and band in the title.

2. Show the salary

Include the band and actual figures, plus any High Cost Area Supplement, unsocial hours or recruitment premia. For non-NHS roles, show a salary range.

3. Be precise about registration

State exactly what's required (NMC, HCPC, Social Work England, BACP, BABCP), and whether "working towards" is acceptable. Vague requirements attract ineligible applicants and put off eligible ones.

4. Describe the team and caseload

Candidates want to know the caseload size, the team make-up, supervision arrangements and on-call expectations.

5. Sell development

Name the training on offer: preceptorship, funded CBT or AMHP training, apprenticeships, protected CPD time.

6. Talk about wellbeing honestly

Mental health staff know the pressures. Say what you do about safe staffing, reflective practice and support after incidents.

7. Make applying easy

Keep forms short and mobile-friendly. Offer informal conversations and name a contact.

8. Be inclusive

Welcome lived experience where relevant, offer reasonable adjustments and avoid unnecessary requirements such as a degree for support roles.

Post your advert on Mental Health Jobs to reach mental health professionals across the UK.