Forensic Healthcare Professional - Durham

PHL Group are looking for a Forensic Healthcare Professional working in custody suite covering Durham working alongside police officers to assess and treat individuals detained in Police Custody. Full training will be provided.

We are currently looking FHCPs to work on a Full Timebasis covering 42hrs per week.

PLEASE NOTE YOU MUST BE A REGISTERED RGN/GENERAL NURSE OR PARAMEDIC

Could you identify if a detainee is suffering from a mental health condition? If they are uncooperative or lacking diabetes medication? If they are a substance misuser or suffering from a head injury? Our Forensic HCPS are responsible for assessing and addressing the health needs of detained persons, as well as conducting forensic medical examinations gathering evidence for use in the criminal justice system.

Main duties of the job

You will be conducting clinical assessments, identifying, and implementing appropriate interventions and collecting forensic samples. Providing advice and guidance to ensure appropriate care is maintained and keeping detailed and accurate records to ensure the health, safety and welfare of detained persons held in police custody.

We encourage you to contact us for an informal visit to the custody suite in order to see for yourself how varied and challenging this role can be.

Forensic Healthcare Professional Skills and Experience:

• Effectively deliver the requirements of the forensic practitioner service following the Codes of Practice of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 and locally agreed protocols.
• Keep accurate, complete and contemporaneous notes of work carried out, including the recording of injuries.
• Provide advice and support to Custody Officers in determining the health care needs of detainees and the priorities of care. Seek telephone advice and refer cases to the Consultant FME when required.
• Provide a professional, responsive and caring service to detained persons in the custody environment to support the Custody Sergeant and Officers in assessing the healthcare needs of detained persons and an effective care pathway throughout their time in custody.
• Determine an individuals fitness to be detained, fitness to be released, fitness to be interviewed and competence to understand charge.
• Assessment of alcohol and drug intoxication and withdrawal.

About us

Why Join Us?

PHL Group was founded in 2009 by a team of experienced General Practitioners and commercial partners, driven by a clear vision to deliver high-quality healthcare services that positively impact local communities. Led by an experienced team of clinicians and healthcare leaders with extensive expertise across urgent and primary care settings,

PHL Group operates a wide range of services across the UK and internationally, including Integrated Urgent Care, GP Practices, Custody Healthcare, ADHD services, Home Visiting, and Wait Time Support.

Supported by a well-established organisational infrastructure, robust clinical governance, and industry-leading professionals, PHL Group is committed to enabling people to remain well and receive the best possible health and social care through innovation, quality, and compassion.

At the heart of everything we do are our core values Truly Care, Team First, and Pioneering Innovationmaking PHL Group a forward-thinking organisation where people are empowered to make a real difference.

Applications

Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If your application is successful, you can expect to hear from us within 2 weeks of submission.

Details

Date posted

30 September 2026

Pay scheme

Other

Salary

£40,993.68 a year

Contract

Permanent

Working pattern

Full-time

Reference number

E0062-26-0114

Job locations

Investigative Hub

Durham Gate

Spennymoor

DL16 6FS

United Kingdom

Job responsibilities

Job Title Forensic Healthcare Professional

Reports to Contracts Manager

Purpose.

As a Healthcare Professional, you will be joining our team of

clinicians who provide custody cover 24 hours a day, 365 days a year,

to assess and address the health needs of detained people, as well

as conduct forensic medical examinations gathering evidence for use

in the criminal justice system. The role will involve conducting clinical

assessments, medicines management, identifying and implementing

appropriate interventions, collecting forensic samples, providing

advice and guidance and maintaining detailed and accurate records

to ensure the health, safety and welfare of detained people held in

police custody.

The successful candidate will embody our core values in their day-to

day work, prioritising a Team First approach by collaborating

effectively and contributing to a positive, respectful environment, Truly Caring by showing commitment to the wellbeing of patients

and colleagues, and driving Pioneering Innovation through a

proactive focus on continuous improvement and adaptability

Key

Responsibilities

• Provide a professional, responsive, and compassionate service to

detained individuals in custody, supporting Custody Sergeants

and Officers in assessing healthcare needs and ensuring an

effective care pathway throughout detention.

• Carry out forensic sampling as required.
• Assess and determine an individuals fitness for detention,

release, interview, and their capacity to understand processes

and charges.

• Evaluate alcohol and drug intoxication and withdrawal, and obtain

blood samples in accordance with the Road Traffic Act.

• Offer guidance and support to Custody Officers in identifying

healthcare needs and prioritising care, seeking advice from the

Lead Nurse or Consultant FME when necessary.

• Deliver forensic practitioner services in line with the Police and

Criminal Evidence Act 1984 Codes of Practice and local

protocols.

• Adhere to NMC/HCPC codes of conduct, maintain professional

development through training and experience, and promote the

role of nurses within the custody setting.

• Maintain accurate, complete, and contemporaneous records,

including injury documentation, ensuring all activities are properly

logged using relevant systems.

Forensic Healthcare Professional v1.1

March 2026 Truly Care Team First Pioneering Innovation

• Stay up to date with current internal and external procedures and

regulations.

• Collaborate with team members to consistently deliver a high

quality service.

• Build and maintain positive working relationships with Consultant

FMEs, doctors, custody staff, police officers, healthcare providers,

drug referral workers, and partner organisations.

• Contribute to data collection for audits and continuous service

improvement initiatives.

• Remain informed on current procedures and regulatory

requirements.

• Act as a positive and committed team member, contributing to a

supportive environment in what can be a challenging setting.

• Work collaboratively, sharing information openly and supporting

colleagues to achieve team objectives.

• Support the training and development of new staff members.
• Assist with student nurse placements.
• Travel to other locations when required.
• Provide court statements in a timely manner.
• Promote a forward-thinking, solution-focused approach and share

innovative ideas.

• Participate in clinical governance, supervision sessions, and team

meetings to support learning and the sharing of best practice.

Experience & Knowledge Essential

Desirable

• Registered Nurse or Paramedic with

minimum of 3 years service.

• Have been continuously resident in the

UK for at least 3 years.

• A full UK driving license.
• Competent in oral and written English.
• Full membership of the NMC/HCPC
• Be accountable for decisions made

based upon a strict interpretation of

rules, regulations and procedures.

Job responsibilities

Job Title Forensic Healthcare Professional

Reports to Contracts Manager

Purpose.

As a Healthcare Professional, you will be joining our team of

clinicians who provide custody cover 24 hours a day, 365 days a year,

to assess and address the health needs of detained people, as well

as conduct forensic medical examinations gathering evidence for use

in the criminal justice system. The role will involve conducting clinical

assessments, medicines management, identifying and implementing

appropriate interventions, collecting forensic samples, providing

advice and guidance and maintaining detailed and accurate records

to ensure the health, safety and welfare of detained people held in

police custody.

The successful candidate will embody our core values in their day-to

day work, prioritising a Team First approach by collaborating

effectively and contributing to a positive, respectful environment, Truly Caring by showing commitment to the wellbeing of patients

and colleagues, and driving Pioneering Innovation through a

proactive focus on continuous improvement and adaptability

Key

Responsibilities

• Provide a professional, responsive, and compassionate service to

detained individuals in custody, supporting Custody Sergeants

and Officers in assessing healthcare needs and ensuring an

effective care pathway throughout detention.

• Carry out forensic sampling as required.
• Assess and determine an individuals fitness for detention,

release, interview, and their capacity to understand processes

and charges.

• Evaluate alcohol and drug intoxication and withdrawal, and obtain

blood samples in accordance with the Road Traffic Act.

• Offer guidance and support to Custody Officers in identifying

healthcare needs and prioritising care, seeking advice from the

Lead Nurse or Consultant FME when necessary.

• Deliver forensic practitioner services in line with the Police and

Criminal Evidence Act 1984 Codes of Practice and local

protocols.

• Adhere to NMC/HCPC codes of conduct, maintain professional

development through training and experience, and promote the

role of nurses within the custody setting.

• Maintain accurate, complete, and contemporaneous records,

including injury documentation, ensuring all activities are properly

logged using relevant systems.

Forensic Healthcare Professional v1.1

March 2026 Truly Care Team First Pioneering Innovation

• Stay up to date with current internal and external procedures and

regulations.

• Collaborate with team members to consistently deliver a high

quality service.

• Build and maintain positive working relationships with Consultant

FMEs, doctors, custody staff, police officers, healthcare providers,

drug referral workers, and partner organisations.

• Contribute to data collection for audits and continuous service

improvement initiatives.

• Remain informed on current procedures and regulatory

requirements.

• Act as a positive and committed team member, contributing to a

supportive environment in what can be a challenging setting.

• Work collaboratively, sharing information openly and supporting

colleagues to achieve team objectives.

• Support the training and development of new staff members.
• Assist with student nurse placements.
• Travel to other locations when required.
• Provide court statements in a timely manner.
• Promote a forward-thinking, solution-focused approach and share

innovative ideas.

• Participate in clinical governance, supervision sessions, and team

meetings to support learning and the sharing of best practice.

Experience & Knowledge Essential

Desirable

• Registered Nurse or Paramedic with

minimum of 3 years service.

• Have been continuously resident in the

UK for at least 3 years.

• A full UK driving license.
• Competent in oral and written English.
• Full membership of the NMC/HCPC
• Be accountable for decisions made

based upon a strict interpretation of

rules, regulations and procedures.

Person Specification

Qualifications

Essential

• Registered Nurse or paramedic with minimum of 3 years service.
• Full membership of the NMC or HCPC

Experience

Essential

• Competent in oral and written English.
• Have been continuously resident in the UK for at least 3 years.
• Right to Work in the UK
• Ability to be cleared through the Police Vetting system: Level 2 NPPV clearance.
• A DBS check is required for this post. PHL will undertake an initial check at the appropriate level on appointment.
• Must have a full UK driving license with access to your own vehicle for business use

Person Specification

Qualifications

Essential

• Registered Nurse or paramedic with minimum of 3 years service.
• Full membership of the NMC or HCPC

Experience

Essential

• Competent in oral and written English.
• Have been continuously resident in the UK for at least 3 years.
• Right to Work in the UK
• Ability to be cleared through the Police Vetting system: Level 2 NPPV clearance.
• A DBS check is required for this post. PHL will undertake an initial check at the appropriate level on appointment.
• Must have a full UK driving license with access to your own vehicle for business use

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

UK Registration

Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see

NHS Careers website .

Additional information

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

UK Registration

Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see

NHS Careers website .

Employer details

Employer name

Partnering Health Ltd

Address

Investigative Hub

Durham Gate

Spennymoor

DL16 6FS

United Kingdom

Employer's website

https://www.phlgroup.co.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)

Employer details

Employer name

Partnering Health Ltd

Address

Investigative Hub

Durham Gate

Spennymoor

DL16 6FS

United Kingdom

Employer's website

https://www.phlgroup.co.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)

Job responsibilities

Job Title Forensic Healthcare Professional

Reports to Contracts Manager

Purpose.

As a Healthcare Professional, you will be joining our team of

clinicians who provide custody cover 24 hours a day, 365 days a year,

to assess and address the health needs of detained people, as well

as conduct forensic medical examinations gathering evidence for use

in the criminal justice system. The role will involve conducting clinical

assessments, medicines management, identifying and implementing

appropriate interventions, collecting forensic samples, providing

advice and guidance and maintaining detailed and accurate records

to ensure the health, safety and welfare of detained people held in

police custody.

The successful candidate will embody our core values in their day-to

day work, prioritising a Team First approach by collaborating

effectively and contributing to a positive, respectful environment, Truly Caring by showing commitment to the wellbeing of patients

and colleagues, and driving Pioneering Innovation through a

proactive focus on continuous improvement and adaptability

Key

Responsibilities

• Provide a professional, responsive, and compassionate service to

detained individuals in custody, supporting Custody Sergeants

and Officers in assessing healthcare needs and ensuring an

effective care pathway throughout detention.

• Carry out forensic sampling as required.
• Assess and determine an individuals fitness for detention,

release, interview, and their capacity to understand processes

and charges.

• Evaluate alcohol and drug intoxication and withdrawal, and obtain

blood samples in accordance with the Road Traffic Act.

• Offer guidance and support to Custody Officers in identifying

healthcare needs and prioritising care, seeking advice from the

Lead Nurse or Consultant FME when necessary.

• Deliver forensic practitioner services in line with the Police and

Criminal Evidence Act 1984 Codes of Practice and local

protocols.

• Adhere to NMC/HCPC codes of conduct, maintain professional

development through training and experience, and promote the

role of nurses within the custody setting.

• Maintain accurate, complete, and contemporaneous records,

including injury documentation, ensuring all activities are properly

logged using relevant systems.

Forensic Healthcare Professional v1.1

March 2026 Truly Care Team First Pioneering Innovation

• Stay up to date with current internal and external procedures and

regulations.

• Collaborate with team members to consistently deliver a high

quality service.

• Build and maintain positive working relationships with Consultant

FMEs, doctors, custody staff, police officers, healthcare providers,

drug referral workers, and partner organisations.

• Contribute to data collection for audits and continuous service

improvement initiatives.

• Remain informed on current procedures and regulatory

requirements.

• Act as a positive and committed team member, contributing to a

supportive environment in what can be a challenging setting.

• Work collaboratively, sharing information openly and supporting

colleagues to achieve team objectives.

• Support the training and development of new staff members.
• Assist with student nurse placements.
• Travel to other locations when required.
• Provide court statements in a timely manner.
• Promote a forward-thinking, solution-focused approach and share

innovative ideas.

• Participate in clinical governance, supervision sessions, and team

meetings to support learning and the sharing of best practice.

Experience & Knowledge Essential

Desirable

• Registered Nurse or Paramedic with

minimum of 3 years service.

• Have been continuously resident in the

UK for at least 3 years.

• A full UK driving license.
• Competent in oral and written English.
• Full membership of the NMC/HCPC
• Be accountable for decisions made

based upon a strict interpretation of

rules, regulations and procedures.

Qualifications

Essential

• Registered Nurse or paramedic with minimum of 3 years service.
• Full membership of the NMC or HCPC

Experience

Essential

• Competent in oral and written English.
• Have been continuously resident in the UK for at least 3 years.
• Right to Work in the UK
• Ability to be cleared through the Police Vetting system: Level 2 NPPV clearance.
• A DBS check is required for this post. PHL will undertake an initial check at the appropriate level on appointment.
• Must have a full UK driving license with access to your own vehicle for business use