A new model for the workforce across our secure estate is delivering both cost improvements and better career opportunities.

Typically across the NHS, band 5 nurses are supported by staff at band 3. Our trust is pioneering a new approach which sees staff at bands 2 and 4 added to the workforce, a model which is rarely seen across the NHS.

The trust’s secure mental health services are piloting the approach. They first starting establishing a workforce of ward–based staff at bands 2 and 3 in 2014. Band 4s are starting in the service for the first time this month.