Candidate FAQs
How does the Trust recruit mental health nurses?
From September 2013, the Trust will introduce a new process for recruiting all Band 5
mental health and learning disability nurses. Following the application deadline, a Trust-wide
panel will shortlist candidates who will then be invited to an assessment centre to complete a
number of exercises (see diagram below). Applicants will also be asked to fill in a sheet with
preferences detailing what area and locality they would like to work in.
Applicants who are successful after the assessment centre will be placed on to a holding list
and will be matched with jobs that suit their preferences. When a job is matched to an
applicant, they will then be invited to attend a competency based interview before being
notified if they have been offered the position.
Why has the Trust implemented this process?
We want to ensure that people who work as part of our organisation have the right attitude,
values and behaviours. It is important that the Trust recruits people that demonstrate these
values to ensure that the quality of care is as important as the quality of treatment.
What is an assessment centre?
Assessment centres are a means of recruiting staff using a range of methods listed below.
This way of selecting applicants ensures that we choose people who have the right values
and behaviours to work within the Trust.
What will happen at the assessment centre?
You will take part in a number of various exercises including group and individual activities
(see diagram).
What do I wear to an assessment centre?
Smart/casual dress, no denim. Suits are not necessary.
Will I get to choose where I work?
At the assessment centre you will complete a sheet with which will ask about the service
areas and localities you would like to work in. The choices you make will help the HR team
to match you up with appropriate jobs if you are successfully placed on the holding list.
If I am unsuccessful after the assessment centre can I re-apply?
Yes but not straight away. Candidates will be asked to reflect on their experience and wait
six months before they are eligible to re-apply.
What is a holding list?
A holding list is a group of candidates who have been successful after attending the
assessment centre. If you are put on to the holding list, this means that you will be put
forward for any staff nurse jobs within the Trust that match your preferences. To make sure
you are matched with the appropriate job, the HR team will look at the preference sheet you
completed whilst at the assessment centre.
How long will I be on the holding list before I get a job?
The more flexible you are about the services and localities you would like to work in, the
more likely you are to match up with a higher amount of vacancies. However, this also
depends on the amount of jobs there are within the organisation.
How long can I stay on the holding list for?
Candidates can stay on the holding list for a maximum period of 12 months.
How will I be allocated a post from the hold list?
Following the assessment centre, a matching process will take place against the vacancies
that exist and the successful individuals’ preferences. You will then be approached by
individual services to attend for a competency based panel interview.
Will I receive any updates to my status after success at the assessment centre on an
ongoing basis?
You will be matched to vacancies as and when they arise and will be contacted through
service managers to attend an interview.
Will it work in my favour if I can start immediately?
All candidates will be treated fairly and consistently. Before you can start in post, there are a
number of pre employment checks that must be undertaken. These include occupational
health and a criminal records check through the disclosure and barring service as well as ID
and right to work in the UK checks.
What happens if I am successful following the assessment centre but do not get
selected for a job after attending for a panel interview?
There are two possible outcomes.

If another candidate was recruited for the position but the trained recruitment panel
believe you have the right values, behaviours and skills to undertake the position,
you will automatically remain on the holding list. You will then be put forward for the
next opportunity available without having to apply and go through the assessment
centre again.

If the trained recruitment panel believe that your level of competency may require
further learning and development and you are not suitable for the position, you would
be removed from the holding list and would not be eligible to re-apply for six months.
What happens if I get a job somewhere else whilst on the holding list?
Out of courtesy, please contact the recruitment team at recruitment3@swyt.nhs.uk and ask
to be removed from the holding list.
How will my needs be met if I have a disability?
As an equal opportunities employer we will work with you to ensure all reasonable
adjustments are accommodated for as part of this process. If you have a specific concern
please contact sandy.nicholas@swyt.nhs.uk