Jobs for the Mental Health sector

About Working Well Trust

Working Well Trust is a mental health and employment charity in London. All of our projects share the aim of improving the lives of people with mental health support needs, learning disabilities and/or complex issues through training and employment.

We are recruiting a Peer IPS Employment Advisor to join our IPS service, you will be based in the borough of Newham, working 35 hours per week. Working Well Trust's services have previously been awarded the IPS Grow quality mark and adheres closely to the principles of the IPS model in supporting people in to employment. This role will be working with clients who have mental health support needs, wanting to gain paid employment. 

Experience of employment support is not essential, it is more important that you share our passion and commitment to employment as an integral aspect of wellbeing and supporting people to find the right job for them. You will receive training on the IPS model and in supporting people with mental health issues. We welcome applications from people with lived experience of mental health, either personally or through a close contact.

You need to have a desire to support people to achieve their employment goals, and the ability to multitask and manage your workload effectively. Good organisation skills are essential for this role, in addition to an interest in mental health, and the role it plays in the workplace. The successful candidate will need to become comfortable in approaching employers, and showcase the advantages of our service in order to work with them to recruit our clients to fill vacancies and sustain employment.

What you’ll be doing

As a Peer IPS Employment Specialist you will play a vital role in helping people with mental health problems on their employment and recovery journey including using lived experience of recovery to support clients.

You will work with clients (managing a caseload) who have mental health support needs, to assist them in securing sustainable paid employment in line with their preferences. You will deliver the IPS approach (for which training will be given); providing person centred support and guidance to clients, whilst building positive relationships with local employers to enable clients to move into suitable employment.

You will work as part of a mental health team (NHS Trust) maintaining positive and integrated relationships, fostering a holistic approach to recovery through employment. You will work closely with clinical teams, providing a coordinated approach that always remains client led.  You will also be working to targets whilst maintaining a high-quality service. 

What you’ll need

Experience in employment support is not essential. We are looking for someone who brings:

• Own personal lived experience of recovery from mental health difficulties 
• A genuine desire to support people into meaningful employment.
• Commitment to person-centred work and either experience of or enthusiasm to learn the IPS approach.
• Confidence engaging with employers and promoting the benefits of our service.
• Good organisation skills and the ability to manage a caseload effectively.
• Beneficial (but not essential): experience working with people with mental health difficulties.

What we offer

• £31,277 per year
• 30 days annual leave plus public holidays, pro rata (FTE)
• Employer pension contribution of 6%
• Supportive environment within a small, dedicated team
• Meaningful, rewarding work supporting people into employment

Working Well Trust is an equal opportunities employer and Confident about Disabilities.

What’s next 

Before you apply, please note the following: 

• We actively recruit and carefully review all applications. Due to rapid service expansion, we have onboarded 20 external hires in the last six months. 

• To ensure we can best support the people and communities we serve, we progress applications only where candidates provide meaningful answers to the screening questions. 

• Career development is real here: in the past year, 10 colleagues have progressed internally into Senior roles, Project Lead, Team Lead, and Operations Manager positions. We value ambition and celebrate progression. 

If you are ready to help us build a service that supports people into meaningful work, click Apply to submit your CV and answer the screening questions. Telephone and final interviews will be confirmed. 

Start your application today and take the next step in a rewarding career. 

Closing date: Monday 19th of January 2026 (09:00). Please note, we will be actively interviewing during this time and may close the vacancy early.

Telephone interviews: 21st, 22nd and 23rd of January 2026 

Final Stage interviews: 26th and 29th January, in person in Stratford, E15.

While we will aim to keep to the above dates, they can be subject to change. 

About Working Well Trust

Working Well Trust is a mental health and employment charity in London. All of our projects share the aim of improving the lives of people with mental health support needs, learning disabilities and/or complex issues through training and employment.

We are recruiting a IPS Employment Advisor to join our IPS service part time, you will be based in the borough of Newham, working 17.5 hours per week. Working Well Trust's services have previously been awarded the IPS Grow quality mark and adheres closely to the principles of the IPS model in supporting people in to employment. This role will be working with clients who have mental health support needs, wanting to gain paid employment. 

Experience of employment support is not essential, it is more important that you share our passion and commitment to employment as an integral aspect of wellbeing and supporting people to find the right job for them. You will receive training on the IPS model and in supporting people with mental health issues. We welcome applications from people with lived experience of mental health, either personally or through a close contact.

You need to have a desire to support people to achieve their employment goals, and the ability to multitask and manage your workload effectively. Good organisation skills are essential for this role, in addition to an interest in mental health, and the role it plays in the workplace. The successful candidate will need to become comfortable in approaching employers, and showcase the advantages of our service in order to work with them to recruit our clients to fill vacancies and sustain employment.

What you’ll be doing

You will work with clients (managing a caseload) who have mental health support needs, to assist them in securing sustainable paid employment in line with their preferences. You will deliver the IPS approach (for which training will be given); providing person centred support and guidance to clients, whilst building positive relationships with local employers to enable clients to move into suitable employment.

You will work as part of a mental health team (NHS Trust) maintaining positive and integrated relationships, fostering a holistic approach to recovery through employment. You will work closely with clinical teams, providing a coordinated approach that always remains client led.  You will also be working to targets whilst maintaining a high-quality service. 

What you’ll need

Experience in employment support is not essential. We are looking for someone who brings:

• A genuine desire to support people into meaningful employment.
• Commitment to person-centred work and either experience of or enthusiasm to learn the IPS approach.
• Confidence engaging with employers and promoting the benefits of our service.
• Good organisation skills and the ability to manage a caseload effectively.
• Beneficial (but not essential): experience working with people with mental health difficulties.

What we offer

• £31,277 per year
• 30 days annual leave plus public holidays, pro rata (FTE)
• Employer pension contribution of 6%
• Supportive environment within a small, dedicated team
• Meaningful, rewarding work supporting people into employment

Working Well Trust is an equal opportunities employer and Confident about Disabilities.

What’s next 

Before you apply, please note the following: 

• We actively recruit and carefully review all applications. Due to rapid service expansion, we have onboarded 20 external hires in the last six months. 

• To ensure we can best support the people and communities we serve, we progress applications only where candidates provide meaningful answers to the screening questions. 

• Career development is real here: in the past year, 10 colleagues have progressed internally into Senior roles, Project Lead, Team Lead, and Operations Manager positions. We value ambition and celebrate progression. 

If you are ready to help us build a service that supports people into meaningful work, click Apply to submit your CV and answer the screening questions. Telephone and final interviews will be confirmed. 

Start your application today and take the next step in a rewarding career. 

Closing date: Monday 19th of January 2026 (09:00). Please note, we will be actively interviewing during this time and may close the vacancy early.

Telephone interviews: 21st, 22nd and 23rd of January 2026 

Final Stage interviews: 26th and 29th January, in person in Stratford, E15.

While we will aim to keep to the above dates, they can be subject to change. 

THE CHARITY

Suicide is the leading cause of death of men under 35 and three quarters of those who die by suicide are men. James’ Place exists to save the lives of men in suicidal crisis through delivering clinical services. We are a charity currently offering free, life-saving therapy to suicidal men at our centres in Liverpool, London and Newcastle.

James’ Place was set up by Clare Milford Haven and Nick Wentworth-Stanley in 2008 after their twenty-one-year-old son, James, died by suicide ten days after a minor operation. James had no history of mental illness or depression and had sought urgent help for anxiety and suicidal thoughts but didn’t find it.   

James' Place was set up to make the experience of finding help as easy as possible. We offer men who are experiencing a suicidal crisis a brief, intensive, therapeutic intervention in a safe environment. Men who walk through the door at James’ Place will be in a space where they feel valued and respected.  We provide a calm and peaceful environment both inside the centres and in our outside spaces, accessible to men who visit us as well as their friends and families. We have so far treated over 4,300 men who might otherwise have been unable to access the support they desperately need.

In early 2026 we will be opening our fourth centre in Birmingham. Our new centre in Birmingham will be there to support suicidal men living in the West Midlands.

THE OPPORTUNITY

We are looking to recruit Suicide Prevention Therapists to support men in suicidal crisis at our new pilot service in St Helens. This role is part of an exciting new initiative for our charity.

As a Suicide Prevention Therapist, you will be an experienced mental health professional or therapist with demonstrable interest in suicide prevention. You will support men who are experiencing a suicidal crisis and their supporter(s), delivering our unique intervention and co-producing effective safety plans to maintain their safety.

The successful candidate will join an experienced and supportive team, gradually building a caseload to assist men in suicidal crisis as we expand our referral partnerships and raise awareness in St Helens. Training and support will be provided by the Head of Centre and Senior Therapist in Liverpool, as well as the wider James’ Place team.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Clinical

· Conduct initial Welcome Assessments with men in a suicidal crisis, assessing risk and the suitability of the James’ Place intervention and co-producing effective safety plans

· Deliver our therapeutic intervention, building trust and exploring the reasons for crisis

· Use the Lay Your Cards on the Table intervention to encourage men to talk about and explore their feelings, attitudes and behaviours and develop positive coping strategies

· Take full clinical responsibility of the men under James’ Place care, as a member of the clinical team and in consultation with Senior Suicide Prevention Therapist and Head of Centre when needed

· Escalate care to appropriate services when necessary, including emergency services and secondary mental health teams

· Deliver one-off guidance sessions to supporters of men under the James’ Place care

· Work collaboratively with other professionals to coordinate comprehensive care

· Demonstrate self-awareness and regularly dedicate time and space, inside and outside of work, to keeping yourself well

· Undergo clinical supervision with a qualified supervisor to reflect on clinical work and raise any issues or concerns arising from work

· Remain up to date with developments in law, theories and research

· Engage in peer support sessions, caseload discussions and reflective practice with the team

· Contribute to an environment in which confidentiality, privacy and dignity are respected and be clear with clients about limits of confidentiality

· Maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards

· Complete session notes in a timely and effective manner

· Participate in continuous professional development and engage in training provided both internally and externally

· Support the Clinical Administration team as and when necessary

Outreach and Engagement

· Support the local management team to increase contact with local community organisations able to refer to us or offer move on support for men completing our intervention

· Support the fundraising team to bring potential supporters into our building and showcase our work, including the facilitation of events

Values

· Demonstrate commitment to the James’ Place values of Focus, Bravery, Respect, Compassion, Professionalism, Collaboration and Hope through all aspects of work

PERSON SPECIFICATION

The role requires someone with a relevant qualification who can confidently support men experiencing a suicidal crisis. You will need to be able to effectively conduct risk assessments and deliver our clinically proven therapeutic intervention to ensure client safety. Strong therapeutic communication, the ability to work autonomously and teamwork skills are also essential to this role, as well as the ability to build trust and hope.

Essential

Qualification(s)

· A Core Profession such as Mental Health Nurse, Occupational Therapist or Social Worker, counselling or practitioner psychologist registered with NMC, HCPC, or Social Work England

or

· Accreditation as a psychological therapist, psychotherapist, or counsellor registered with BACP, UKCP, BABCP or equivalent, or have completed training and awaiting accreditation

You must hold a relevant qualification to be considered for this role.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

· Demonstrable experience working with adults experiencing acute psychological distress

· Demonstrable knowledge of social and other factors which could lead to suicidal thinking and actions

· Demonstrable knowledge of the factors contributing to male suicide

· Evidence of being able to deliver a therapeutic session and work in a therapeutic environment  

· Effective communication skills (both written and verbal)

· Good interpersonal skills with the ability to manage difficult situations

· Ability to assess, plan, implement and evaluate therapeutic interventions

· An ability to collaborate with clients in the development of a person centred, individual intervention plan

· An ability to engage clients in the intervention plan, overcoming barriers to communication

· Ability to conduct effective risk assessments and collaborative safety plans with men who are presenting with high risk of suicide, or be willing and able to learn how to do so

· Ability to identify if the James’ Place service is not adequate to maintain the person’s safety and facilitate rapid transfer to the most appropriate service

· Ability to maintain boundaries within a time-limited intervention

· Ability to work as an effective team member

· Ability to manage and prioritise own workload, using own initiative and confidence in decision making

· Strong time management

· Ability to maintain up to date client records in line with James’ Place standards

· Ability to maintain own personal safety and the safety of others within the centre

· Knowledge and understanding of Safeguarding Procedures

Values

· Commitment to clinical supervision

· Ability to engage with James’ Place values

· Ability to promote people’s equality, diversity and rights

· Ability to work collaboratively and demonstrate commitment to co-production

· Ability to be transparent, honest and show discretion when needed

· Commitment to suicide prevention and working with men in a suicidal crisis

WE OFFER

· A 7% employer contributory pension scheme

· Family friendly policies

· Death in service insurance scheme

· 25 days plus bank holidays leave entitlement (FTE), including enhanced holiday allowance with incremental rises after qualifying period

HOW TO APPLY

To apply, please follow the instructions using the URL link provided.

Closing date: 12pm on Friday 30th January 2026

Interviews to be held virtually via MS Teams on Thursday 12th and Friday 13th February.

James’ Place is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community. Our aim is that no job applicant, temporary worker or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender and transgender status, race and ethnicity, religion and belief (including no belief), marriage or civil partnership status or sexual orientation.

If you have a disability or health conditions which means you'd benefit from any adjustments to the interview process to help you perform at your best, please do let us know in advance.

Any job offers made are subject to the receipt of two relevant satisfactory employment references. We expect this to include one from your most recent or current employer. Any job offers made are also subject to a satisfactory DBS check and a Right to Work in the UK check.

Role 

This is an entry level, part-time administrative role within the Volunteer Recruitment & Training team 

The Listening Place (TLP) is an award-winning charity providing face-to-face, compassionate and non-judgemental support for people who feel that life is no longer worth living.  Since opening our first site in Pimlico in 2016, we have grown to four sites and our service is delivered by over 850 active volunteers.  

This is an exciting opportunity to join a small, dedicated team and play a vital role in ensuring our volunteers are recruited, trained and prepared to deliver our outstanding service. You will provide high quality administrative support across the volunteer recruitment and training process, helping the team to operate efficiently and effectively. 

We are committed to welcoming everyone from all backgrounds and communities and creating inclusive teams. If you have a disability, a learning difficulty (such as dyslexia) or a medical condition that may affect your performance during the selection process or in the role, we are very happy to make reasonable adjustments to support you. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Provide administrative support across the volunteer recruitment and training process 

• Liaise with potential volunteers, interviewers and trainers 

• Arrange and coordinate meetings, interviews and training events (this may involve travelling between sites) 

• Manage room bookings and logistics for training and interviews 

• Monitor shared mailboxes and calendars; respond promptly to email and telephone enquiries 

• Request, track and record volunteer references 

• Maintain accurate office systems, including data entry and upkeep of spreadsheets and databases 

• Any other ad-hoc tasks as required 

Attributes and Skills 

Essential 

• Excellent administrative and organisational skills, with strong attention to detail 

• Ability to work at a fast pace whilst maintaining accuracy 

• Clear, confident written and verbal communication skills 

• A reliable, punctual and enthusiastic team player, who works collaboratively and builds positive working relationships 

• Proactive and self-motivated, with the ability to plan, prioritise and manage competing demands 

• Calm and professional under pressure 

• High level of computer proficiency, particularly in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) 

• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion and tact

• Strong commitment to, and understanding of, The Listening Place’s mission and values 

Desirable 

• Recent experience in an administrative role 

• Experience working or volunteering within a charity or volunteer-led organisation 

Hours 

3 days a week (22.5 hours), worked during office hours, Monday to Friday.Occasional evening and weekend work to meet operational requirements. 

Location 

Predominantly office based at our Hammersmith or Liverpool Street offices with some remote working. 

Reporting line 

The Volunteer Recruitment and Training Coordinator will report to the Senior Volunteer Recruitment and Training Coordinator. 

Salary 

£18,094 pro-rated per annum (subject to a scheduled review and anticipated increase in April 2026) plus: 

• 3% employer contribution towards pension 

• 15 days annual leave per annum (plus pro-rated public holidays) 

• Employee Assistance Programme 

• Access to Medicash health insurance and critical illness cover 

Application process 

Please submit a CV and cover letter (maximum one A4 page) by Friday 30 January. 
Candidates shortlisted for interview will be asked to complete a homework task in advance. 

Position: Rota Coordinator
Duration: Permanent, full time 
Location: On site. Working from home is possible but it must not exceed time spent in the office, other than in exceptional circumstances.

Hours: Full-time, 37.5 hours a week

Line Manager: Head of Volunteer Management
 

Key Responsibilities

The Rota Coordinator: 

• Welcomes and onboards new volunteers, allocating shifts that reflect their shift preferences 

• Ensures all appointments are effectively covered and works closely with the Visitor Support team to achieve this 

• Stands down volunteers when cover that has been booked in advance is no longer needed

• Takes the preferences of visitors into account when cover shifts are booked —  e.g., ensures that a male volunteer has not been booked to see someone who cannot see a man 

• Ensures cover volunteers can meet the needs of the shift, e.g. that an assessment trained volunteer covers where initial assessment appointments are booked in 

• Helps build a ‘cover bank’ of volunteers they can call on a short notice

• Tactfully reminds volunteers of their commitment to our visitors — where necessary 

• Works (indirectly) with software developers to improve the volunteer database 

• Records and updates important information about our volunteers, treating information about their personal lives with sensitivity and respect 

• Flags to supervising volunteers and the Head of Volunteer Management if a volunteer has frequent absences / cancellations or if they appear in need additional support 

• Puts people on leave of absence, after consulting Visitor Support, and follows up with them about return dates 

•  Liaises closely with Volunteer Recruitment and Training, who will give them the names and numbers of new volunteers and their shift preferences and organise refresher training for volunteers returning from leave of absence 

Attributes and skills  

• Strong commitment to and good understanding of TLP’s mission and values 
• Excellent attention to detail
• Excellent IT skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills 
• A good memory — for names, faces and shift patterns 
• Excellent organisational and administrative skills 
• Recent experience as a TLP volunteer or good insight into volunteer roles* 
• Proactivity and problem solving and the ability to prioritise 
• The ability to stay calm under pressure 
• Excellent interpersonal skills, both face-to-face and on the phone, and a positive attitude 
• Flexible
• Reliable

* Rota Coordinators who don’t have experience as volunteers are required to shadow prep programme modules 

Compensation

Salary: £30,157 (Subject to a scheduled review and anticipated increase in April 2026)

Benefits:

• 3% employer contribution towards pension
• 25 days annual leave, with one extra day’s annual leave for each full year of service up to five years
• Access to Medicash health benefits and critical illness cover after three months of employment
• Employee Assistance Programme

Application 

Please submit a cover letter (no more than one page of A4) and CV by 12pm on 30 January 2026.

About MediCinema

MediCinema is a UK-registered charity dedicated to providing cinema experiences inside hospitals to support the emotional, physical and mental health of NHS patients, their families, and carers. For 25 years, we have brought the power of cinema to hospitals, and in recognition of our impact, MediCinema was honoured with BAFTA’s Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema Award at the 2025 EE BAFTA Film Awards.

We build and run fully accessible cinemas within hospitals, screening the latest films at no cost to patients or the NHS. Our services help reduce isolation, stress, and anxiety, enhancing emotional and mental wellbeing while fostering resilience. We support patients of all ages, including dedicated paediatric screenings at several sites.

We have an ambitious goal to establish a MediCinema in every NHS region across the UK, and rely on long-term partnerships with NHS Trusts, Hospital Charities and the corporate sector to sustain and expand our services.

The Role

Reporting to the CEO, this new senior leadership role is central to ensuring MediCinema’s financial sustainability, operational excellence, and people-centred culture. The Director will lead the charity’s finance, HR, and business operational functions, ensuring robust systems, compliance, and strategic alignment with our mission.

This is a hands-on role for a values-driven leader who thrives in a collaborative, purpose-led environment and is passionate about improving patient experiences through innovative service delivery.

This role will be managing external HR and IT consultants and supported by a part time (1 day per week) assistant.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Strategy

· Participate in strategic and business planning processes, supporting the CEO and trustees to develop the strategic plan

· Serve as a key member of the Senior Management Team (SMT) contributing to the strategic direction and day to day management of the organisation.

Finance

· Lead the finance function, overseeing budgeting, forecasting, management accounts, and statutory reporting.

· Ensure robust financial controls and compliance with regulatory requirements.

· Manage cashflow, reserves, and risk, supporting strategic financial planning.

· Lead on financial reporting to the Board and relevant committees.

· Oversee payroll, pensions, and financial administration.

· Managing the annual audit process and liaising with auditors

· Liaising with tax specialists on VAT, corporation tax and other matters as required.

· Liaising with the Treasurer on all key financial matters on a quarterly basis

Business Operations

· Ensure efficient delivery of office services and a safe, well-maintained working environment.

· Lead on the IT systems and digital strategy ensuring platforms are secure and support business needs

· Work with the external IT consultant to maintain and evolve the infrastructure, systems and processes in place to align with business needs and industry regulation

· Keep abreast of changes and updates to Data Protection legislation and ensure that staff receive regular training on Data Protection and Cyber security

· Manage contracts, suppliers, and internal processes to ensure value and efficiency.

· Support the commissioning of new MediCinema sites, including project planning and stakeholder engagement.

· Lead on the annual insurance renewal process

HR and People Development

· Lead on strategic workforce planning, recruitment, onboarding, and talent retention.

· Embed inclusive HR policies and practices aligned with MediCinema’s values.

· Provide support and evolve processes to strengthen employee relations, performance management, and wellbeing.

· Support line managers in developing high-performing, motivated teams.

· Ensure compliance with employment law and HR best practice.

· Work with the external HR consultant on HR admin,including due diligence, onboarding and recruitment.

Governance and Compliance

· Maintain up-to-date policies and procedures across finance, HR, and operations.

· Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and safeguarding requirements.

· Support the CEO and Board with governance processes, reporting, and policy development.

The Person

Experience and Background

We are seeking a strategic leader with experience across finance, operations, and HR — ideally within the UK charity or public health sector. You may have worked in healthcare, education, or social impact organisations, and bring a strong understanding of compliance, governance, and people leadership. Candidates with a relevant background in SMEs may be considered, but will need to demonstrate a commitment to quickly developing the specialist knowledge required by charity regulations and an aptitude for operating within the third sector.

You will be comfortable working in a hands-on, collaborative environment, with a deep respect for MediCinema’s mission and values.

Skills and Qualifications

· Professional accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or AAT)

· Strong understanding of HR, IT, risk management, and governance in small teams

· Proven experience managing budgets, audits, and accounts (Quickbooks experience ideal)

· Excellent project management and strategic planning skills

· Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to lead and mentor others

· A proactive, organised, and solutions-focused approach

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a covering letter telling us about your suitability for this role, why it appeals to you and what makes you a strong candidate (no longer than one side of A4). Please note applications will be anonymised.

Closing date for applications: Midday, Friday 30th January 2026 with a view to holding first round interviews in mid February.

We are an equal opportunities employer and an accredited Living Wage Foundation employer.

To support the Board in the effective management of our marketing function, including fundraising (and liaising with external fundraising organisations where appropriate). To assess service improvements, ensuring that all systems (including Digital and IT infrastructure) and processes are efficient whilst enabling a supportive and welcoming culture. Lead initiatives to enhance the quality and efficiency of services and our information management systems. The risk management, data protection and data governance aspects of this role are important. Oversees the setting of targets and gathering of statistics to feed the strategy in line with business plans agreed by leadership team and trustees.

1. Manage the implementation of the marketing strategy (including digital marketing) and support the marketing co-ordinator/administrator(s).

2. Develop grant writing, apply for grants, and manage fundraising activities.

3. Develop external relationships as appropriate to support fundraising and events.

4. Work with the Counselling Manager, Clinical Administrator(s) and Admin team to ensure all systems and processes are most effective whilst supporting the culture of the organisation.

5. Responsible for identifying areas for improvement, developing and implementing improvement strategies, and monitoring progress to ensure better service delivery and outcomes.

6. Work with the Office Manager and Counselling Manager to support all relevant IT systems and initiate improvements as required.

7. Working with the Trustees and Leadership team, oversea the setting of targets and gathering of statistics to feed the strategy in line with business plans

8. Ensure the organisation and its systems adhere to the latest GDPR requirements and support effective risk management.

9. To carry out other duties that may reasonably be required in line with the role.

The Old Bank Wellbeing Trust Limited (‘The Old Bank’) is a registered charity offering counselling and psychotherapy services to individuals, couples and groups and providing training to support the improvement of mental health. We seek to make our services accessible to all and it is a key aim for everyone interacting with our services to feel accepted and welcomed.

Central London Samaritans is the biggest of Samaritans branches. Situated in the heart of London, 400 volunteers deliver the Samaritans service round the clock, every day of the year providing support for anyone struggling to cope. Assisted by a small staff team, volunteers manage over 100,000 calls a year, 4,500 face to face visits at branch and respond to over 10,000 email and text contacts.

Central London Samaritans was the founding branch of the Samaritans movement and has a rich history which began in the crypt of St Stephen Walbrook over 70 years ago.

The role of the Volunteer Coordinator is an integral part of branch operations and is the key office role that ensures the branch operates a 24/7 rota, 365 days a year. The post holder is key to ensuring a fit for rota and volunteer support system at CLS.

Main responsibilities and duties

• Keep abreast of volunteering best practice provided by Central Charity and ensuring all required risk assessments are carried out
• Administer and coordinate the rota of volunteers covering every day of the year to ensure the Central London Samaritans operates a 24/7 service for callers. This includes reviewing shift volunteer numbers to ensure volunteers are available for callers in line with national guidance
• Administer new volunteers onto the database and support the placement of new volunteers (New Samaritans) onto shifts
• Provide the volunteer Directorate with accurate information as required by the volunteer Directorate to effectively manage the branch rota
• Support the volunteer Directorate to identify and resolve volunteering issues and work with the Directors to support the management of volunteer engagement and retention; offer first line support that signposts queries and concerns from volunteers
• Support the volunteer Directorate to identify volunteers for other roles including Shift Leader
• Support the volunteer Directorate and signpost volunteers needing to take a ‘Leave of Absence’ to the relevant Director / team. Administer the ‘Leave of Absence’
• Support the volunteer Directorate to organise and resource the recruitment and training of new Shift Leaders
• Oversee and administer the implementation of a volunteer management database at the branch and maintain the database with accurate and up to date information in line with the data protection act
• Provide statistical information to the senior volunteer management team and Centre Management

This job description is neither exclusive nor exhaustive and the duties and responsibilities may vary from time-to-time in light of changing circumstances and in consultation with the jobholder.

Hours of work

The basic hours are 35 hours per week. Within these hours, there may be a need to work some evenings and weekend days, so flexibility is essential. The core responsibilities and duties should be carried out during weekdays.

The amount of out of hours work will be agreed with the Head of Branch Operations on an ongoing basis. Toil (time off in lieu) will be allowed in agreement with the Head of Branch Operations and in line with the current European Working Time Directive.

Limitations

This job description is neither exclusive nor exhaustive and the duties and responsibilities may vary from time-to-time in the lights of changing circumstances and in consultation with the job- holder.

The job-holder will be required to work within the rules and regulations of Samaritans and accept the authority of the Head of Branch Operations, who has discretion to delegate authority to the job-holder and to withdraw it.

Equal Opportunities Policy

Central London Samaritans is committed to eliminating any discrimination and promoting diversity and equality of opportunity in all it does. It is therefore Central London Samaritans' commitment to provide equal opportunities in employment and we will not unlawfully discriminate against job applicants, employees of the Company, volunteers, workers or contract workers on the grounds of their age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race (which includes colour, nationality and ethnic or national origins), religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.

An opportunity to contribute to the development of crisis prevention pathways and services, as well overseeing existing essential crsiis prevention services. 

The postholder will ensure safe, effective, person-centred delivery across a range of service settings including Sanctuary, satellite locations, co-located models, and community-based interventions. A core part of the role involves developing crisis prevention strategies, ensuring services are accessible to all communities, and overseeing training and capacity-building across teams.

Purpose of the role

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) provides strategic and operational leadership to ensure BDC Mind delivers high-quality mental health services, achieves organisational sustainability, and fosters a culture aligned to the charity’s values.

The CEO works closely with the Board to set strategic direction, leads the Executive Leadership Team, ensures effective governance and financial stewardship, and represents BDC Mind across local, regional, and national forums.

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Key Responsibilities

Strategic and Courageous Leadership

1. Lead the development and implementation of the organisational strategy.

2. Build trust and confidence with the Board, ELT, staff, and external partners.

3. Provide transparent and values-driven leadership aligned to BDC Mind’s mission.

4. Build strong, productive relationships with commissioners, funders, strategic and corporate partners.

5. Engage in media engagement, advocacy, and public speaking responsibilities.

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Innovation, Growth & Sector Influence

6. Foster a culture of innovation, learning, and continuous improvement.

7. Develop new or enhanced service models, including pilots and strategic partnerships within Bradford and Craven and across West Yorkshire.

8. Position BDC Mind as a leading service provider for current and emerging mental health needs through identifying service gaps and opportunities.

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Delivering High-Impact Services

9. Ensure services deliver measurable, high-quality outcomes for people and communities.

10. Embed Service Member voices at the heart of Service developments.

11. Oversee service performance, quality assurance, and impact reporting.

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Building an Inclusive and Diverse Culture in line with our Antiracism Commitments

12. Drive the delivery of our commitments to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI), Anti-Racism and the Patient Care Race Equality Framework (PCREF)

13. Promote a culture of inclusion, psychological safety, and respect across the organisation.

14. Strengthen workforce diversity and embed anti-discriminatory practice.

15. Ensure services are accessible, inclusive and culturally competent.

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Inspiring, Supportive and Accountable Leadership

16. Provide clear, motivating leadership to the ELT and wider workforce.

17. Promote staff wellbeing, professional development, and collaborative working.

18. Ensure effective line management, appraisals, and succession planning across ELT.

19. Communicate consistently, openly, and effectively with all members of the workforce, Maintaining visibility and accessibility across teams and services.

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Governance, Finance, Safeguarding & Risk

20. Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and contractual obligations.

21. Maintain robust safeguarding practices for children and adults at risk.

22. Oversee robust health and safety procedures and risk assessments.

23. Ensure strong governance, effective decision-making, and accountability across the organisation.

24. Maintain robust organisational risk management processes.

25. Support the Board’s effectiveness through high-quality reporting and engagement.

26. Ensure strong financial controls, financial planning, management, and statutory compliance.

27. Drive income generation and diversification of funding streams for long-term financial sustainability.

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General Duties

28. Foster and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders, facilitating effective communication channels.

29. Lead the team ensuring all key people processes are engaged with meaningfully to enable strong performance and transparent communication, addressing issues proactively and sensitively should they arise and in alignment with our aims, policies, core values and Employee Handbook.

30. Fully participating in all relevant training to develop and maintain your performance in the role.

31. Demonstrating an ongoing commitment to our values: Caring Always, Working Together, Supporting Everyone, Enabling All and Continually Improving.

32. Performing other duties as reasonably required within the role.

It is BDC Mind’s policy to make reasonable adjustments to enable those with disabilities to undertake the above. We are committed to promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and improving the quality of life for people with mental health challenges. We value diversity, inclusion, and the importance of lived experience as a source of knowledge and expertise. Our values are:

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Person specification

Bradford District and Craven Mind is committed to promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and improving the quality of life for people with mental health challenges. We value diversity, inclusion and lived experiences when recruiting our staff and volunteers. 

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Qualifications & Knowledge

Essential

· Senior leadership experience within one or more of health, social care, charity, or related sectors.

· Strong understanding of mental health services and challenges faced by service users.

· Knowledge of charity governance, safeguarding, quality standards and regulation.

· Good financial literacy and experience overseeing budgets and financial strategy.

· Strong understanding of EDI principles and inclusive leadership.

· Engaging with a Board of Trustees.

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Desirable

· Relevant degree or professional qualification (e.g., management, social care, health).

· Knowledge of commissioning, procurement, and tendering processes.

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Leadership Skills & Behaviours

Essential

· Courageous, transparent, values-driven leadership approach.

· Ability to inspire, motivate and develop high-performing teams.

· Strategic thinker capable of turning vision into deliverable plans.

· Skilled communicator and relationship-builder internally and externally.

· Effective decision-maker, particularly in complex and challenging situations.

· Commitment to equity inclusion, diversity, and psychologically safe working environments.

· Collaborative and partnership-oriented working style.

· Person-centred leadership, able to exercise discretion.

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Experience

Essential

· Senior paid role with a charity of turnover of more than £3.5 million.

· Demonstrable experience in strategic planning, organisational development, and change management.

· Delivering organisational strategies and measurable outcomes.

· Managing growth, innovation or service transformation.

· Strong financial acumen including overseeing financial sustainability, compliance, budget management and income generation.

· Excellent communication, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement skills including Representing organisations publicly and influencing stakeholders.

· Experience of working within a wider system of charities and infrastructure.

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Desirable

· Experience of working within a federated or charity network.

· Leadership experience within mental health or wellbeing services.

· Demonstrable commitment to Anti-Racism.

· Evidence of public policy influence.

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Personal Attributes

· A strong passion for the mission of BDC Mind and alignment with our values, including inclusion for all

· Resilience and the confidence to challenge constructively.

· Ability to foster trust, credibility and positive relationships.

· Passion for improving mental health outcomes across communities.

· Commitment to learning, improvement and reflective practice.

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Additional Information

· The CEO may be required to work flexibly, including occasional evenings or weekends.

· Appointment is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

​

The Mental Health Foundation is recruiting for a Head of Campaigns & Media to lead the development of a new team within our Policy & Influencing Directorate.

Deadline: 9am on Monday 2nd February
Location: London OR Glasgow
Salary: Starting salary £52,166 rising to £60,861, plus London weighting of £4,000 where applicable
Hours: Full-time (32 hours per week) [part-time considered]
Contract type: This is a permanent role

This exciting role has been created to develop a new campaigns function at the Mental Health Foundation, incorporating our existing media team and working closely with policy, research and lived experience colleagues across the UK, with the aim of driving support for policy change.

What does the role involve?

• Developing a campaigns strategy for MHF and deliver its execution.
• Manage the campaigns and media team, commission engaging content, oversee campaign budgets, and collaborate with stakeholders to create a better policy environment for good mental health.
• Contribute to the leadership of the Mental Health Foundation and its Policy and Influencing Directorate.

What skills, knowledge and experience are we looking for?​

• Experience of developing and implementing campaign strategies to support policy change in the charity sector.
• Comprehensive understanding of communication disciplines (e.g. digital marketing, media relations, content creation) and how they integrate to achieve campaign objectives.
• Understanding of mental health policy, prevention and public health.

Safeguarding is Everyone’s business – Mental Health Foundation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of all its beneficiaries, those who surround them, its staff, volunteers, and anyone else who comes into contact with its services and expects all trustees, staff, and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to appropriate vetting procedures (proof of eligibility to work in the UK, proof of residency and satisfactory employment screening, including a Disclosure check and two most recent references) along with 3-year renewals of Disclosure checks. We are unable to provide sponsorship for this post, you must be able to demonstrate your eligibility to work in the UK.

How to apply

If you think your skills match and you’d like to be part of a dynamic and growing organisation, please complete and submit your application via our website. Please ensure you attach an up-to-date CV and statement of suitability answering all points of the person specification. Applications will close at 9am on Monday 2nd February and we are unable to accept late applications. Interviews are planned for Monday 9th & Wednesday 11th February.

We believe our people should represent the communities, organisations and individuals we work with. Diversity and inclusion is a strategic priority for us as an employer and mental health charity, and we are proud to be signatories of the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter and the Disability Confident Committed Scheme. Applications from under-represented sections of the community are actively encouraged.

If you have a disability, require any additional support or have any questions regarding the role, please contact us. We make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and during employment. Disabled candidates who meet all the essential person specification criteria will be offered an interview. Therefore, please do ensure you tick the relevant box on the application form and clearly indicate in your application/covering letter if you consider yourself to meet the requirements of the Equality Act 2010 / Disability Discrimination Act 1995.

We are currently operating mostly digital recruitment (including interviews via video conferencing). We have moved to a hybrid working model of a minimum of 2 days per week in the office and the rest working from home.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Introduction

East London NHS Foundation Trust (ELFT) working with Mind CHWF and other voluntary sector partners is delighted to offer a secondment as a community connector to support the mental well-being of people with complex mental health and social needs in the Neighbourhoods in City & Hackney.

This is a new role and we are looking to work with individuals from the voluntary sector to help us co-design and test out the role.  You will help to shape the role, working closely with people in Neighbourhoods to reflect their strengths, interests and ideas for what matters to them about good mental well-being.

You will be a welcome member of the multi-disciplinary (MDT) mental health team, with day-to-day managerial and professional supervision provided within the team. You will also be able to access training and other staff support within ELFT during this time.

Background

In the autumn of 2019 ELFT was successful in securing funding from NHS England (NHSE) for community mental health transformation. It is one of 12 national pilot sites. City and Hackney, Newham and Tower Hamlets are all part of the ELFT pilot. The aim of the transformation is to develop a model of support for people with serious mental illness (SMI) that recognises complexity and social determinants over and above diagnosis, and supports them through a blended team of voluntary sector, mental health and primary care staff to connect better into a range of activities in their neighbourhoods. The new teams are organised around City & Hackney Primary care networks (PCNs) / Neighbourhoods, and will provide wraparound support for people with varying levels of need. These teams will develop a rich understanding of population mental health need, and work with individuals, families, and communities to develop capacity for self-management, and provide local treatment and support for individuals when they need it.

The teams include the new community connector role. This will be someone from the voluntary sector, well connected in the neighbourhoods and bringing expertise in wider social support and well-being. We are working with voluntary sector partners to design and test this role.

Responding to Covid 19

Since the Covid 19 emergency began in mid-March much of the transformation programme has had to be adapted. ELFT is keen that where the transformation can support the Covid 19 response it should continue. In particular the role of the community connector could be valuable during the Covid 19 emergency and recovery.

The role obviously needs to be different and we will work closely with the connectors and the voluntary sector to design and test out the role. The description here is intended as a starter for ten to give some idea about the shape the role might take.

During the Covid pandemic, the community connectors will be part of the ELFT community MDT team, making links to specific Neighbourhoods. Also the face to face work in terms of assessments, interventions, group work, partnership working may need to be carried out differently. The role will now include:

· providing support to service users by phone/virtually

· connecting service users to the fast developing range of Covid 19 resources in each neighbourhood and keeping the mental health and primary care teams up to date about these resources and how to refer people to the/access them. Including supporting the new Neighbourhood MDTs as these develop.

· developing a good knowledge of all the online resources in each neighbourhood and connecting service users and staff to these

· we will keep the option for face to face work and group work under review, depending on the government guidance on social distancing. As lockdowns are lifted there may be some possibility to offer this type of support

The following five design principles have guided our model development to date:

1. Service users and citizens will be active, equal partners: leading the design, implementation, governance, and delivery of our new mode

2. We will integrate mental and physical health, wellbeing and social care: our services will feel fully integrated to service users and carers

3. The right support in the right place and the right time: services will be delivered in the PCN footprint, and service users will not be “bounced around” services

4. A focus on what matters to service users: care planning will look beyond health goals to life goals and wider determinants of health; and we will work to connect people to each other and their communities

5. Evidence-based interventions: Service users will be confident that our services provide the latest evidence-based care, treatment and support.

The role

The Community Connectors will support individuals to connect within neighbourhoods, and use local assets to self-organise.

Who you will support

The post-holder will work closely with individuals with serious mental illness (SMI) and/or personality disorders (PD), developing an understanding of complexity in order to provide the most appropriate support. Some of the service users you will work with will have been supported by community mental health recovery teams, seen in outpatients and are not care co-ordinated, so could be better supported by their local neighbourhood team. Other service users will be on primary care SMI registers and likely to benefit from additional support, but do not meet the thresholds for traditional secondary care. Other people might not be known to our services currently, and could benefit from the more personalised, local, holistic offer you will be developing.

Your approach

The ethos of this work will be recovery focused, move away from a traditional referral model, blur the boundaries between primary and secondary care, explore needs through complexity (rather than diagnosis), focus on a person’s strengths and assets, and focus on the wider determinants of health and wellbeing. This approach is as important as your experience and expertise. You will develop a strengths based biopsychosocial assessment, and supportive approach, and work with colleagues and local people to develop the MDT approach in its infancy. 

Although not exhaustive, below is a list of the skills and responsibilities that may be required:

Individual Support

· Strong interpersonal and communication skills. It is important that you listen to service users and carers to find out what is important to them, and that you build open, supportive and trusting relationships (working with the challenges of not meeting face-to-face, at least initially, due to the current Covid-19 public health crisis. We will keep the option for face to face work and group work under review, depending on the government guidance on social distancing. As lockdowns are lifted there may be some possibility to offer this type of support.)

· A strong sense of what factors influence health and wellbeing.

· The ability to assist service users in setting goals and making changes that are meaningful to them.

· You will conduct regular innovative and engaging sessions (currently with individuals, over the phone) in order to work towards support plan goals.

· You will ensure ongoing assessment and management of risks within an attitude of 'positive risk taking'.

· You will give people time to tell their stories and focus on ‘what matters to me’, build trust, providing non-judgemental support, respecting diversity and lifestyle choices.

· You will use health coaching and motivational interviewing techniques, identify barriers to people accessing services, and work with service users to overcome these. You will support people to identify the wider issues that impact on their health and wellbeing, such as debt, poor housing, employment circumstances and unemployment, loneliness, isolation and caring responsibilities.

· Where people may be eligible for a personal health budget, help them to explore this option as a way of providing funded, personalised support to be independent, including helping people to gain skills for meaningful employment, where appropriate.

Community Development

· You will act as the ‘glue’, linking people in with experts and local assets, and undertaking support work in partnership with external stakeholders to complement their interventions.

· You will stay up to date with the constantly developing environment, local offer, and national policies, during the Covid-19 pandemic. Significant experience in local statutory and/or voluntary sector services.

· You will have a deep knowledge of City & Hackney (or a specific local area or demographic), what is available locally and how to signpost and support people (network creation, mapping).

· You will develop productive relationships with local partner organisations to improve service outcomes, and involve service users and carers in the design, development and delivery of the service.

· You will need to triage referrals and signpost to specialist support quickly where necessary, and deal with general queries to contribute to the overall smooth running of the neighbourhood team.

· Where appropriate, introduce people to community groups, activities and statutory services, ensuring they are comfortable.  Follow up to ensure they are happy, able to engage, included and receiving good support.

· Where appropriate you will connect people to each other through shared common interests and the need for mutual support.

· You will have the ability and drive to build networks with local community resources such as activities and services that may have an impact on health and wellbeing, and support individuals to access these. To be proactive in encouraging self-referrals, and connecting with all local communities.

· You will work in partnership with existing community navigation roles in City & Hackney.

Project Management

· You will monitor and record outcomes of all those accessing the service through the use of recognised assessment tools and outcome measures. With the wider team, you will gather and collate statistical and other information and data as required, reporting on activity and outcomes and ensuring effective qualitative and quantitative monitoring and evaluation of the services.

· You will help to develop and adapt this role as the societal circumstances we are operating under change (as the Covid-19 public health situation develops and/or social distancing is relaxed).

General

· You will reflect on practice and participate in team meetings, practice development forums and peer supervision. You will identify own training and development needs in conjunction with your Line Manager and participate in training opportunities.

· You will develop an awareness of local and national developments and best practice in this area of work and to attend relevant conferences, meetings and training events as required.

· You will adhere to organisational policies and procedures relating to risk and personal safety. You will refer all safeguarding issues in line with local policy.

· You will manage volunteers and other team members as required.

· You will identify issues relating to systemic challenges and disconnects, and report these to the Programme Manager, developing an eye for service improvement opportunities.

Person Specification

As a community connector, you will become a local expert, gathering and sharing information about local opportunities, activities, and support, bringing people together and supporting them to remain confident and independent in their everyday lives.

We are looking for community connectors with experience supporting with people with their mental health, with significant experience in statutory and/or voluntary sector services, knowledge of City & Hackney (or a specific local area or demographic), and strong interpersonal skills.

Skills and experience:

Person Centred

- Enjoys social interaction and the company of others.

- Exudes a warm friendly presence and open behaviour. Is approachable and open-minded.

- Prefers working as part of a group or team.

- Has a practical and logical mind.

- Well organised and knows how to prioritise tasks. Able to plan own workload.

- Thrives on change and enjoys dynamic diverse environments.

- Is respectful, articulate and sensitive in style of communication.

- Ability to listen, empathise with people and provide person-centred support in a non-judgmental.

- Able to support people in a way that inspires trust and confidence, motivating others to reach their potential.

- Experience of supporting people, families and care in a related role (including unpaid work).

- Experience of supporting people with their mental health, either in a paid, unpaid or informal capacity.

Community Development

- Commitment to reducing health inequalities and proactively working to reach people from all communities.

- Able to work from an asset-based approach, building on existing community and personal assets.

- Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with people, their families, carers, community groups, partner agencies and stakeholders.

- Ability to identify risk and assess/manage risk when working with individuals.

- Able to get along with people from all backgrounds and communities, respecting lifestyles and diversity.

- Is motivated towards excellence and improvement of personal performance with a can do attitude.

- Ability to cope positively with challenging and diverse behaviour.

- Demonstrates a desire for continuous professional development.

- Experience of working directly in a community development context, adult health and social care, learning support or public health/health improvement (including unpaid work).

- Experience of partnership/collaborative working and of building relationships across a variety of organisations.

Knowledge:

- Understanding of the wider determinants of health, including social, economic and environmental factors and their impact on communities and how adverse circumstances and structural barriers can affect people's relationships

- An understanding of the experiences of people who live with significant mental distress.

- Knowledge of community development approaches.

- Knowledge of IT systems, including ability to use word processing skills, emails and the internet to create simple plans and reports.

- Knowledge of motivational coaching and interview skills.

- Knowledge of voluntary and community services in the local neighbourhood.

Essential:

- Educated to GCSE level (or equivalent by experience).

- NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent.

- Significant experience in statutory or voluntary sector services.

- IT literate.

Desirable:

- Mental Health First Aid or willingness to work towards the qualification.

- Training in motivational coaching and interviewing or equivalent experience.

- University degree and/or professional qualification.

- Experience of delivering peer support groups.

Grants Manager
Salary: £35,000 – £40,000 per annum
Location: Hybrid – London EC1Y/Home

Join MQ and help transform mental health research.

We champion and fund world-class research to transform the lives of everyone affected by mental illness. By connecting scientists with supporters, together we strive to understand mental health, improve treatments and prevent mental illness.

We're now hiring a Grants Manager, who will play a key role in the delivery and development of MQ’s research funding programmes. Working under the direction of the Programme lead, you will take day-to-day ownership of capacity building initiatives and funding programmes, managing activity across the full grants lifecycle from funding call design through to award completion, learning, and reporting.

The role combines hands-on programme coordination with increasing responsibility for project planning, stakeholder engagement, decision-making support, and continuous improvement. The right person will be passionate about tackling mental health, and driven to ensure that all projects happen to the highest possible standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Programme & Grant Management – Develop and maintain project and programme plans, including objectives, timelines, stakeholders, and monitoring. Coordinate the delivery of assigned funding programmes and projects across the full grants lifecycle.
• Partnership Management – Support new research initiatives, working with consortium partners to ensure high-quality execution and learning.
• Relationship Management – Act as a primary point of contact for applicants, awardees, and external collaborators. Support post-award grant management, including monitoring progress, reviewing reports, flagging risks, and preparing award letters and official communications to grant recipients.
• Impact Management & Reporting – Support impact tracking, monitoring, and reporting across funded programmes, including coordinating and reviewing Research.
• Grant Calls, Peer Review & Committees – Support the planning and delivery of funding calls, including documentation, timelines, and assessment processes.
• Financial, Systems & Process Support – Support award contracting and work with Finance to coordinate payments and monitor grant spend. Use and maintain the grants management system (FlexiGrant), ensuring accurate records and reporting.
• Engagement & Learning – Support the delivery of launch events, workshops, and conferences and engagement with lived experience experts across programmes. Also, prepare engagement letters and supporting materials for lived experience experts, ensuring expectations and commitments are clearly communicated.

Person Specification

We're looking for someone with:

• Experience in grants management, programme coordination, research funding, or a related role.
• Experience managing projects or programmes with multiple stakeholders and deadlines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including report writing and presenting to diverse audiences.
• Understanding of academic research processes and experience engaging with universities, research institutions, or research charities.
• Good organisational skills, with attention to detail and the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Financial awareness, with experience supporting budgets, invoices, or grant spend.
• Confidence using digital systems, databases, and grants management or CRM platforms (or ability to learn quickly).
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively and escalating issues appropriately.
• A proactive, collaborative approach and commitment to high-quality delivery.
• Interest in mental health research and inclusive engagement, including working with lived experience communities.

Why Join MQ?

We offer a great working experience within a friendly team. Hybrid working (in the London office Mondays and Tuesdays, with the remaining days from home). We are located near Barbican Tube.

Plus, we offer lots of generous benefits and training opportunities.

We're a Sunday Times Top Company to work for.

Benefits

• Flexible working: As a mental health charity, staff wellbeing is of paramount importance. We operate a core hours policy (10-4) to encourage flexible working and staff are mainly home based with the requirement to come into the office two days per week. A standard full-time working week is 35 hours, plus an hour for lunch breaks.
• Holidays: Annual holiday entitlement of 31 days (inc. office closure between Xmas and New Year) plus bank holidays.
• Wellbeing Allowance: MQ provides an allowance of up to £1200 per annum for each employee to spend on activities that increase their wellbeing. This is paid through payroll and is taxable.
• Virtual GP & Other wellbeing services - Get quick GP appointments and support with cancer and caring responsibilities through our Zurich benefits scheme.
• Cycle to work scheme: An interest-free loan is available to enable employees to purchase a bike and accessories, repaid via equal deductions from the employee’s salary over 12 months.
• Employee Assistance Programme: All employees and their families have access to a 24-hour confidential advice and support line.
• Counselling: Employees have access to a number of free face-to-face sessions, via the EAP scheme.
• Pension: MQ makes contributions of 5% and employees make contributions of 3%.
• Life Assurance - Up to 4 x your salary in the event of death in service.
• Season Ticket Loan: An interest free season ticket loan is available, repaid via equal deductions from the employee’s salary over 12 months.
• Personal Development: We value employee development and review individual training needs through our performance management system. HR also runs internal management development sessions for all staff.

Closing date: Friday 30th January 2026
Please note we typically start interviewing within two weeks of the job advert going live. We reserve the right to close the job before the deadline based on the volume of applications, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

We believe in equality and inclusion and we welcome job applications from everyone, provided you meet the criteria for the job.

Safer recruitment is important to us and the successful applicant will be asked to provide two references. They will also be required to complete a safeguarding self-declaration and undertake a DBS check.

No agencies please.

Please note that the successful candidate must reside in the Highlands area.

About the Role
 

As a Senior Community Link Worker, you will have a developmental role as well as providing on-going support. You will be responsible for developing positive, working relationships between the Community Link Worker team, Primary Care and local community resources. You will work to ensure that people referred from Primary Care to the Community Link Worker service benefit from community resources which can contribute to improvement of their mental and physical health outcomes. You will contribute to community development in your local area of work by working with community organisations
 

You will carry case loads for on-going work with specific individuals for developing and reviewing personal support plans, and provide oversight of personal support plans designed and implemented by Community Link Workers. Working closely with Community Link Workers in a guidance and/or support and supervision role, you will promote good working practice and staff development.
 

You will also ensure that the Community Link Worker service provides an environment where people can improve their health outcomes, establish improved connections in their communities and enhance their quality of life.
 

Key Responsibilities:

• Work autonomously being able to judge when I refer to your manager and take a lead role in developing the service. 
• Working closely with the Project Manager and Locality Manager to achieve strategic outcomes
• Working closely with colleagues in Primary Care
• Working to develop improved, working links between Primary Care and local community resources
• Identify gaps in the service where they arise and implement solutions in partnership with your line manager
• Linking service users to appropriate resources in the local community
• Compiling and reviewing service user personal support plans ensuring outcomes are being achieved, including ensuring people are connected to their community
• Oversight of personal support plans developed and implemented by Community Link Workers
• Overseeing Community Link Worker workloads 
• Ensuring continuity of service within the context of change MH values and strategic outcomes
• Ensuring that careful and ongoing review systems are in place and maintained
• Building positive working relationships with Primary Care and other local partners to better support our service users and to promote the work of the Community Link Worker service
• Collating information and prepare agency reports for line management as required
• Contributing to Research and Development at a local level in support of National objectives to promote service improvements
• Travelling throughout the geographic region covered by the service as required

Essential Criteria:

• Educated to SVQ 3 level or have experience working in the social care sector.
• Work well in a team setting but can also work autonomously 
• Have a sound theory base of social care interventions including risk assessment 
• Have a value base consistent with the aims and objectives of Change Mental Health
• Able to apply an analytical approach to problems in order to find solutions
• Competent in planning and reviewing development plans and taking appropriate action if needed
• Good Standard of I.T skills
• An understanding of the importance of providing professional support and supervision to practitioners
• Sound knowledge of Health and Social care policy in Scotland and can apply this to my role
• Desire to develop my knowledge and skills and attend training as required
• Ability to travel throughout the geographic region covered by the service as required

Desirable Criteria

• Experience of working with people affected by mental or physical health issues
• Experience of community-development work
• Experience of working in a SSSC Registered Service
• A learning and development portfolio which evidences your skills and knowledge

General Duties:

• Act in accordance with Data Protection legislation.  Ensure all records, personal, staff and client data are managed in line with Data Management and Information Governance policies
• Comply with legal and regulatory requirements such as provisions set out in the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
• As with all employees, workers and volunteers; to encourage people to join Support in Mind Scotland as a member, donor or activist
• To act in accordance with the charity’s Health & Safety and Safeguarding policies and to notify your line manager promptly if there are any concerns
• To participate in regular supervision and appraisal and undertake any relevant training as appropriate to the role
• To work in accordance with the charity’s national policies and local operating procedures and those of external regulators or professional bodies

This job profile and list of duties is not exhaustive and serves only to highlight the main requirements. The line manager may stipulate other reasonable requirements and projects commensurate with the general profile and grade of the post.

Please be aware that it is classed as an offence if you apply for this role and are barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to vulnerable adults.