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- Tasks: Assist in tribunal hearings, manage attendance, and ensure smooth operations.
- Company: Join a vital public sector team supporting mental health tribunals.
- Benefits: Earn £55-£97 per day plus mileage and overtime opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a difference in mental health while gaining valuable experience in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills; previous experience preferred but not essential.
- Other info: Flexibility is key; part-time hours with potential for full-time work.
We are seeking a dedicated and organised Tribunal Assistant to join our team. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of tribunal hearings for the Mental Health Tribunal Service (Public Sector).
The First-tier Tribunal (Mental Health) reviews cases of individuals detained under the Mental Health Act or living in the community under specific orders. This independent judicial body ensures that the statutory criteria for detention are met and makes balanced judgments on patient diagnosis, treatment needs, individual freedom, public protection, and patient best interests.
Key Responsibilities:- Liaison: Coordinate with the Mental Health Act Office to gather necessary information and locate the tribunal room.
- Attendance Management: Identify attendees, complete attendance sheets, and inform the panel of any issues prior to the hearing.
- Room Setup: Prepare the tribunal room as required, ensuring all necessary arrangements are in place.
- Panel Assistance: Greet and escort the panel members (Doctor, Judge, Specialist Member) to the tribunal room, offering refreshments and ensuring their comfort.
- Document Handling: Obtain copies of reports from the MHA Office as needed.
- Participant Coordination: Ensure all participants (patient, solicitor, hospital staff, AMP) are present and ready for the tribunal, guiding them in and out of the room as required.
- Issue Resolution: Address any delays or issues, liaising with the MHA Office for contact information.
- Technical Setup: Arrange and test telephone or video conferencing equipment for remote attendees.
- Support During Hearings: Provide any necessary assistance to the panel to ensure the tribunal runs smoothly.
- Post-Hearing Duties: Complete Form P6, restore the room to its original state, and deliver the form to the MHA Office or reception in a sealed envelope.
- Confidentiality: Maintain strict confidentiality of all proceedings and information discussed during the tribunal.
- You will need to be extremely flexible with the number of hours worked, as no set number can be guaranteed per week, and we are looking for people who would be happy working part-time hours but available for full-time if required.
- You will also need to be available at short notice for work and for changes of locations.
- You will be required to attend tribunals at various locations within the Reading area of England, so flexibility is essential, as is your own transport. Mileage will be paid.
- Excellent organisational and communication skills.
- Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Previous experience in a similar role is preferred but not required.
If you are interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn’t quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
Contact Detail:
Hays Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Tribunal Assistant-Reading and Surrounds
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Mental Health Act and tribunal processes. Understanding the legal framework and procedures will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the mental health sector. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with people who work in similar roles. This can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your organisational skills through examples from previous experiences. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed multiple tasks or resolved issues under pressure, as these are key aspects of the Tribunal Assistant role.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared for flexibility in your availability. Since the role requires working at short notice and potentially varying hours, emphasising your adaptability during discussions can make you a more attractive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Tribunal Assistant-Reading and Surrounds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the responsibilities of a Tribunal Assistant. Emphasise any organisational, communication, or problem-solving skills you possess.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses the job description. Mention your flexibility, ability to handle sensitive information, and any previous experience that relates to the role.
Highlight Availability: Clearly state your availability in your application. Since the role requires flexibility and the ability to work at short notice, make it clear that you can accommodate these needs.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Tribunal Assistant. Familiarise yourself with the Mental Health Act and the tribunal process, as this will help you answer questions confidently and demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Since the role requires excellent organisational abilities, prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed multiple tasks or coordinated events. This will highlight your capability to handle the demands of the position.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility
Given the need for flexibility in hours and locations, be ready to discuss your availability and willingness to adapt. Share any previous experiences where you had to adjust your schedule or work under changing circumstances.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to remain calm under pressure. Think of situations where you resolved issues effectively, especially in a professional setting, and be ready to share those stories.
