At a Glance
- Tasks: Support adults with complex mental health needs and advocate for their rights.
- Company: Join Hillingdon Council's dedicated Forensic Mental Health Social Work team.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, generous holiday, and access to mental health support services.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your professional skills.
- Qualifications: AMHP qualification and experience with mentally disordered offenders required.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to diversity and personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Make a difference in Hillingdon. Join our dedicated Forensic Mental Health Social Work team.
About the role
This is an exciting opportunity to join Hillingdon Council as an Approved Mental Health Practitioner (AMHP) working within our Forensic Mental Health Adult Social Work Service. We are seeking a committed, professional and experienced AMHP to support adults in secondary and forensic mental health services. You will work as part of a small, specialist team within the wider Adult Mental Health Social Work Service. In this dual role, you’ll act as a Forensic Social Worker and also participate in the AMHP rota, carrying out Mental Health Act assessments.
Responsibilities
- Delivering high-quality Social Work support to adults with complex mental health needs
- Acting as a Social Supervisor and working with mentally disordered offenders
- Working closely with our local Forensic Services and contributing to MAPPA processes
- Advocating for service users’ rights and supporting their recovery and independence
- Collaborating with families, carers, and multi‑agency professionals
- Supporting discharge planning and delivering care in the community
What We Offer
- A competitive starting salary
- Manageable caseloads and regular supervision
- Access to monthly support and an established AMHP forum
- Annual AMHP‑specific training and extensive CPD opportunities
- A supportive and professional environment that encourages innovation and learning
Advanced Social Work Practitioners – Our practicing AMHPs are recognised as Advanced Social Work Practitioners.
Qualifications
- AMHP qualification and experience
- Proven experience working with mentally disordered offenders
- Experience as a Social Supervisor
- Excellent communication and advocacy skills
- A flexible, proactive approach and strong professional values
Above all, you’ll be passionate about improving lives and delivering the right support to residents when they need it most.
If you’re ready to bring your skills and experience to a team that truly values your expertise, we’d love to hear from you.
Please see the attached Job Profile for full details and requirements.
Benefits
- Flexible Working Hours – We recognise the importance of flexibility in managing your work and personal life.
- 36 Hour Week – Enjoy a standard 36‑hour workweek for all full‑time staff.
- Generous Holiday Entitlement – increasing with length of service (for non‑casual roles).
- Hillingdon Sports & Leisure – Stay active and healthy with discounts at council‑owned leisure centres and swimming pools across the borough.
- Salary Sacrifice Schemes – option to join schemes for cycle purchase, electric vehicle leasing and additional voluntary pension contributions (subject to scheme rules).
- Cycle to Work – Eco‑friendly commuting with our cycle purchase scheme. We also provide bicycle parking, lockers, and showers at the Civic Centre.
- Local Government Pension Scheme – access to Local Government Pension Scheme and membership to the Credit Union.
- Vivup Benefits – Access a variety of offers and discounts through our Vivup Benefits.
- Mental Health Support and Counselling Services – Our mental health first aiders are trained to identify, understand, and help employees experiencing mental health issues. Access free 24‑hour confidential advice and counselling as well as a legal advice service for you and your immediate family.
- Travel Support – Make your daily commute easier with our season ticket loans and free car parking.
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Statement
At the London Borough of Hillingdon, we are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. This commitment means that all employees, job applicants and others who work for us will be treated fairly. The aim is for our workforce to be representative of all sections of society and Hillingdon residents so we welcome applicants from a wide variety of backgrounds. We strive to ensure that our recruitment process is free from discrimination and bias, and we are dedicated to providing reasonable adjustments to applicants with disabilities.
Join us in building a workplace where everyone feels respected, able to give their best and be themselves at work, whilst contributing meaningfully to our organisation's success.
Recruitment Information
Hillingdon Council operates a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities that meet the essential criteria for the role and wish to be considered under this scheme. We believe in the option to choose, so candidates declaring a disability have the choice to opt in for consideration under this scheme, on a ‘per application’ basis.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable groups and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Some posts are subject to The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2019 and it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service.
In addition to verifying Right to Work in the UK and a new starter health questionnaire, the post is subject to the following pre‑employment screening:
- Enhanced DBS Check
- Qualifications Check
- Professional Registration Check
- 5 years of Referencing
Please note: Priority will be given to those at risk of redundancy within Hillingdon Council. Current employees who are part of the redeployment pool must meet the essential criteria for shortlisting to be prioritised.
It may be necessary due to a high volume of applications to close this role early. We therefore recommend you apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Forensic Advanced Social Work Practitioner - AMHP in London employer: London Borough of Hillingdon
Contact Detail:
London Borough of Hillingdon Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Forensic Advanced Social Work Practitioner - AMHP in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the mental health field, especially those who work in forensic services. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of the Mental Health Act and current practices in forensic social work. We want you to feel confident and ready to showcase your expertise when it counts!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that AMHP role! We love seeing applications directly from candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Forensic Advanced Social Work Practitioner - AMHP in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for improving lives shine through. We want to see how committed you are to supporting adults with complex mental health needs and advocating for their rights.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience as an AMHP and working with mentally disordered offenders. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your skills and how they align with the role.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application 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 London Borough of Hillingdon
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the Mental Health Act and the specific challenges faced by mentally disordered offenders. Being able to discuss relevant legislation and case studies will show that you're not just qualified, but also genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to share specific examples from your past work that highlight your experience as an AMHP and a Social Supervisor. Think about situations where you've advocated for service users or collaborated with multi-agency professionals, as these stories will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the team dynamics, the support available for AMHPs, and how they approach complex cases. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
✨Emphasise Your Values
Hillingdon Council values passion for improving lives and delivering support. Be ready to discuss your professional values and how they align with the council's mission. Sharing your commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion will also make a positive impression.