At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead mental health and advice services for children and young people, ensuring quality and growth.
- Company: YMCA DownsLink Group, a leading charity supporting youth in Sussex and Surrey.
- Benefits: Join a values-driven team with opportunities for professional development and impactful work.
- Other info: Be part of an ambitious team focused on growth and community impact.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people while shaping future mental health support.
- Qualifications: Experience in mental health services and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
YMCA DownsLink Group (YMCA DLG) is the leading charity supporting children and young people across Sussex and Surrey through safe homes, mental health support and trusted advice. Following a significant period of organisational stabilisation and transformation, we are now entering an ambitious new phase focused on growth, influence and deepening our impact.
We are seeking an experienced and values‑led Director of Mental Health and Advice to join our Executive Team and lead our counselling and specialist support and advice services for children and young people. This strategically important leadership role has responsibility for community and schools counselling, specialist youth advice and sexual exploitation services, safeguarding, service quality and contract growth across a complex and evolving operational landscape.
You will bring visible leadership across services, strengthen partnerships with commissioners and local authorities, and help shape the future of mental health and advice support for children and young people across the region. You will also contribute to long‑term sustainability, growth and strategic direction of the organisation.
This appointment is part of a wider strengthening of YMCA DLG’s Executive Team as the organisation enters its next phase of growth and impact.
Closing date: 9 am Tuesday 30th June.
Director of Mental Health and Advice in Eastbourne employer: Homeless Link
YMCA DownsLink Group is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of children and young people across Sussex and Surrey. With a strong focus on employee development, a supportive work culture, and the opportunity to lead transformative mental health initiatives, you will be part of a passionate team committed to growth and community influence. Join us in shaping the future of mental health support while enjoying a fulfilling career in a values-driven environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Mental Health and Advice in Eastbourne
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the mental health and charity sectors, especially those connected to YMCA DLG. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by knowing your stuff! Research YMCA DLG’s recent projects and their impact on the community. This shows you’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Think of examples from your past where you've led teams or projects successfully. We want to see how you can bring that experience to the Director role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re keen on being part of our team at YMCA DLG right from the start.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Mental Health and Advice in Eastbourne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for mental health and supporting young people shine through. We want to see how your values align with ours at YMCA DLG, so don’t hold back on sharing your motivation!
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in mental health support and leadership. We’re looking for someone who can lead our counselling services, so be specific about your past roles and achievements that relate to this.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your qualifications and vision for the role. Remember, clarity helps us understand your fit for the position!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Homeless Link
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in YMCA DLG’s mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their mental health initiatives and the specific services they provide. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your experience with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Director, you’ll need to demonstrate strong leadership capabilities. Prepare examples from your past roles where you’ve successfully led teams or projects, particularly in mental health or youth services. Highlight how you’ve influenced positive change and built partnerships.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about challenges you might face in this role, such as safeguarding issues or service quality improvements, and prepare thoughtful responses that showcase your strategic thinking.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few insightful questions ready. Inquire about the future direction of YMCA DLG’s mental health services or how they measure the impact of their programmes. This shows your enthusiasm and commitment to contributing to their mission.
