Hiring Questions Answered

Mental health vacancy rates remain at record highs. ARG data shows **89% of active RMNs are already employed** and only move for: Band 6 progression, CAMHS/forensic specialism, or higher salaries (£38k-£45k). NHS trusts and private providers (Priory, Cygnet) compete for the same talent pool. NHS offers security and pension; private offers higher salary + flexibility. If your offer is Band 5 at £30k with limited progression, you will lose every candidate to competitors offering Band 6 track or £4k-£7k salary premiums.

**ARG average:** • RMN (Band 5-6): 12-16 days • Clinical Psychologist: 22-28 days • Senior Clinical roles: 28-35 days The bottleneck is candidate scarcity, not process. Most RMNs receive 2-3 approaches per week. If your interview process is 3+ weeks, they will accept another offer before you decide. Fast-moving providers (1-week turnaround) win **65%+ of contested offers**.

**Market reality (ARG data):** • RMN Band 5: £28k-£33k (NHS) | £32k-£38k (private) • RMN Band 6: £33k-£40k (NHS) | £36k-£45k (private) • Clinical Psychologist: £42k-£58k • Senior Practitioner/Team Lead: £38k-£48k Private providers paying under £35k for Band 6-equivalent RMNs are **6-12 months behind market rate**. Advertised "competitive" salaries lose candidates immediately.

Depends on **long-term need vs immediate crisis**. **Agency:** £22-£35/hour (£35k-£70k annual equivalent) but immediate start, no commitment. **Permanent:** 15-20% recruitment fee but lock in £30k-£42k salaries. **ARG rule:** use agency for short-term gaps (<6 months) or urgent cover. Hire permanent if you have consistent demand and want continuity. Many providers run **hybrid models**: perm core team + agency flex.

**Counter-offers are rife.** ARG data: **27% of accepted mental health offers** get reneged before start date. **Reasons:** • Current employer counters with Band 6 upgrade or retention bonus • Competing provider offers better shift pattern or location • Candidate realizes commute is unsustainable **Mitigation:** confirm **why** they are moving (progression matters more than money for many), stay in contact weekly during notice, and push for fast contract signature.