At a Glance
- Tasks: Support adults in managing their mental health and connect them to community resources.
- Company: Join a dedicated team at Thrive Early Access Mental Health Service in Edinburgh.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working options available to promote a great work-life balance.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: SVQ Level 3 or equivalent and experience in mental health support required.
The predicted salary is between 24800 - 35100 £ per year.
Location: Thrive Early Access Mental Health Service, Ballenden House, Edinburgh
Salary: £29,870 per annum, pro rata
Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week
Closing date: 13th October 2025
We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds.
If you consider yourself to have a disability, please complete the relevant section within the application pack to inform us of any arrangements that we may make to the interview process.
We reserve the right to close this advert earlier or later than stated, so please don’t delay your application to avoid any disappointment.
About the role
The Senior Support Workers in the Thrive Early Access Mental Health Service undertake short-term focused work with adults of all ages and from a wide range of backgrounds. They help people to identify what is important to them and the steps they can take to manage their mental health and wellbeing. The workers connect people into community services, clinical treatment options and self-management resources as appropriate.
Along with mental health nurses and other members of the multi-disciplinary teams, the Senior Support Workers staff the Open Access drop-ins that take place within the locality. They work closely with colleagues within health and social care, the wider third sector, and with community organisations across the city, ensuring that the service is accessible to and meets the needs of all sections of the community.
Who are we looking for?
The ideal candidate should be passionate about making a real difference in the lives of people in the city and who can work in close partnership with statutory and voluntary partners using an asset-based approach. The successful candidate will be adept at helping people to identify their personal outcomes, and they will be able to build collaborative working relationships with individuals from varied backgrounds quickly.
We seek someone with direct experience in supporting people with their mental health, including people living with complex issues. Candidates should be able to demonstrate an ability to assist people to develop their own recovery plans, whilst assessing and managing risk appropriately.
You should be able to demonstrate partnership working and bring sound knowledge of the Edinburgh health and social care landscape. You should also be willing to embrace a culture of shared learning and reflection to bring creative solutions to the team.
As this is a senior post with great responsibility, you should have a SVQ Level 3 or equivalent qualification and a track record of managing a caseload and meeting administrative deadlines with minimal supervision. This post is subject to membership in the PVG Scheme and appropriate checks.
We are committed to exploring flexible working opportunities which benefit the individual and the charity and are a “Happy to Talk Flexible” employer: The post is for 35 hours per week, and working days will be discussed and agreed with the Locality Manager and can be adjusted for the suitable candidate.
If you are passionate about enabling Change Mental Health to deliver a valuable service to the Scottish community and feel your profile matches this role’s criteria, then we want to hear from you!
- Professional development including funded opportunities.
- A 35-hour working week, enhanced sick pay & season ticket loan.
- A great work life balance with flexible and blended working environment.
- 24/7 access to an award-winning Employee Assistance Programme providing free legal, financial and medical advice as well as support with life’s challenges.
- Enhanced sick pay and leave entitlements
Senior Support Worker, Edinburgh employer: Changemh
Thrive Early Access Mental Health Service is an exceptional employer located in the heart of Edinburgh, dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges. With a strong commitment to professional development, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive work culture, employees are empowered to grow and thrive in their roles. The organisation fosters collaboration with community partners, ensuring that staff can make a real difference while enjoying a healthy work-life balance and access to comprehensive employee support services.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Support Worker, Edinburgh
✨Connect Through Professional Networks
Join associations related to therapy and counselling, like the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). They often have job boards, events, and forums where you can meet potential employers and like-minded professionals. Being active in these spaces can give you a significant edge.
✨Show Up at Local Mental Health Events
Look for workshops, seminars, and conferences focused on mental health in your area. Not only can you learn valuable insights, but you can also network with professionals who might be aware of full-time opportunities, like the ones at Changemh. Plus, showing your passion for the field in person can leave a lasting impression.
✨Utilise Online Platforms Tailored to Counselling
Websites like TherapyJobs or Indeed specifically cater to therapy professionals. Make sure to check these regularly for new listings, and consider setting up alerts to stay ahead of the game. Plus, applying directly through these platforms can sometimes give you better visibility.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re recently graduated or still in school, don't forget to tap into your university's career resources. They often have exclusive listings for full-time positions and can help you refine your interview skills. Plus, they might connect you with alumni who’re already working at places like Changemh.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Support Worker, Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Qualifications:Make sure to showcase any relevant qualifications you've completed, such as a degree in psychology or counselling certifications. This is super important in the therapy and counselling field, so don’t skip over these details in your CV.
Showcase Your Empathy Skills:In your cover letter, it's essential to demonstrate your empathy and communication skills, which are key in therapy. Share specific examples from your previous experiences where you've effectively helped someone through a tough time—this will make your application stand out.
Demonstrate Your Continued Learning:We love seeing candidates who are committed to ongoing professional development. Mention any workshops, seminars, or additional training you’ve attended recently. This not only boosts your CV but shows your passion for the field.
Personalise Your Application for Changemh:Take some time to research Changemh and reflect this understanding in your application. Explain why you’re interested in working with them specifically and how your values align with their approach—this personal touch can make all the difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Changemh
✨Show Your Empathy and Communication Skills
In therapy and counselling, it's all about how well you connect with others. Be ready to share examples of how you've demonstrated empathy, active listening, and non-verbal communication in past experiences. Your ability to create rapport with clients is key, so let that shine through!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face some scenario-based questions that assess your practical skills in dealing with clients. Think of various client situations or challenges you've encountered or could encounter. Practice how you would respond, ensuring you highlight your problem-solving abilities and therapeutic techniques.
✨Highlight Your Continuing Education
Being in a full-time role in therapy means you need to stay updated with the latest techniques and theories. Mention any professional development courses you've taken recently, or plans you have for ongoing education. This shows that you’re committed to growth in your field and eager to help your clients with the best approaches.
✨Finesse Your Personal Statement
In therapy, your personal statement is a chance to showcase who you are beyond your qualifications. Tailor it to not just highlight your credentials but also your passion for helping others. Share personal stories or insights that led you to this profession, reinforcing why you'd be a great fit for Changemh's values and approach.
