Clinical Lead (Healthcare Services)

Job purpose

The Clinical Lead will play a pivotal role in leading and developing Action for ME’s Healthcare Services with the Operations Director, ensuring the highest standards of clinical care for individuals affected by Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME). The postholder will be responsible for clinical oversight, service development, and leadership, working collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to enhance outcomes for children and adults with ME and will be the CQC Registered Manager for the service.

At present, the Healthcare Services is a small team with two doctors (GPs) and two physios. Our counsellors are overseen by a Counselling Lead Supervisor and our multi-faith Chaplains are supported by our Lead Chaplain.

We are keen to develop and expand our services, building on the small amount of spot purchasing from local commissioning boards and exploring a diagnosing and prescribing offer. We are also keen to explore the potential of increasing the range of disciplines offered within the team. You will play a key role in driving the strategy for our Healthcare Services with the Director of Operations.

Key responsibilities

• Provide clinical support and expertise to Action for ME's Healthcare Services, ensuring evidence-based, person-centred care.

• Act as Registered Manager for CQC (Care Quality Commission) purposes and ensure that the service meets all required standards.

• Lead the development and implementation of clinical policies, protocols, and best practices in line with national guidelines and regulatory requirements.

• Supervise and support healthcare professionals within the service, offering guidance, mentorship, and training.

• Designated safeguarding officer for Healthcare Services.

• Collaborate with external stakeholders, including NHS services, researchers, and others, to enhance healthcare provision for people with ME.

• Ensure the service complies with regulatory and safeguarding standards, including CQC requirements where applicable.

• Monitor and evaluate service delivery, using data-driven insights to improve clinical outcomes and patient experience.

• Provide expert advice on complex cases, supporting staff with clinical decision-making.

• Represent Action for M.E. at external forums, conferences, and policy discussions.

Person specification

• A registered healthcare professional (e.g., doctor, nurse, physiotherapist, or occupational therapist) with active professional registration (GMC, NMC, HCPC or equivalent) OR an experienced commissioner of healthcare services with experience of quality assurance, safeguarding and compliance.

• Extensive clinical experience in chronic illness management OR sound understanding of clinical practice, ideally with expertise in ME or related conditions and a clear understanding of the challenges faced by people with ME.

• An understanding of Care Quality Commission regulatory requirements.

• Proven leadership experience in a healthcare setting, including team management and service development.

• Strong understanding of evidence-based practice and clinical governance.

• A sound understanding and experience of safeguarding children/young people and vulnerable adults.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with patients, carers, and healthcare professionals.

• Experience in training and mentoring healthcare professionals.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary environment.

• Commitment to patient-centred care and advocacy for people with ME.

• Knowledge of NHS structures and commissioning processes.

• An understanding of working within the third sector or charitable organisations.