Forensic Medical Officer jobs

An exciting opportunity has arisen to recruit a Forensic Healthcare Practitioner (FHP) within Kent Police Custody. All applicants must be a registered General Nurse or Paramedic, holding current registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council or equivalent with a minimum of 3 years post registration and a competency level equivalent to 'pay band 6’ in the Health Service.

The successful applicant will be based at North Kent Custody Suite but will be required to work flexibly across all custody suites within the Kent estate, as well as at external locations including hospitals and other community settings.

As a Forensic Healthcare Practitioner, you will play a vital role in ensuring the health, safety and welfare of individuals detained in police custody. You will be responsible for making professional clinical decisions, often in complex and fast-paced environments, determining whether individuals are fit to be detained or interviewed.

The role also involves the provision of immediate care, administration of medication in line with Patient Group Directions (PGDs), and the collection of forensic samples, including venous blood.

This is a challenging yet rewarding position requiring a high degree of autonomy, professionalism, and resilience.

Essential requirements:

• Be a Registered General Nurse or Paramedic with current professional registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (or equivalent).
• Have a minimum of three years’ post-registration experience.
• Be working at, or demonstrate competence equivalent to, NHS Band 6 level.
• Be able to practise autonomously and make sound clinical decisions without supervision.
• Hold a certificate in phlebotomy and cannulation.
• Have a full UK manual driving licence.

Desirable experience:

• Experience in Emergency Department, acute medical, or similar clinical settings.
• Knowledge or experience relating to mental health, substance misuse, or vulnerable individuals in crisis.
• Experience of working in high-pressure or unpredictable environments.

Key skills and attributes:

• Excellent clinical assessment and decision-making skills.
• Strong problem-solving and information-gathering ability.
• Ability to build rapport quickly with individuals, including those who may be distressed or confrontational.
• Excellent communication skills, demonstrating tact, discretion and professionalism at all times.
• Strong organisational and time management skills, with attention to detail.
• Confidence in using IT systems including Microsoft Office and email.
• Ability to maintain professional detachment while working compassionately in an enforcement environment.

Additional information:
This role operates on a 24/7 shift pattern, including days, nights and weekends covering 365 days a year.

You will be required to travel across multiple locations as part of your role, including custody suites and external healthcare settings. A full manual driving license is essential.

A comprehensive induction programme will be provided to equip you with the specialist knowledge and skills required to operate effectively within a custody environment.

If you require any further information on the role, please contact Chrissie Farren on 01622 653215.

Kent Police offer incremental increases within this salary band, therefore the salary for this position will rise to a maximum of £47,505.00.

Advert closing date: 8 July 2026

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: £41,856.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• On-site parking
• Sick pay

Work Location: In person