Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the coordination of referrals and assessments in mental health services.
- Company: Join a compassionate team at Look Ahead, based in Islington.
- Benefits: Enjoy up to 30 days annual leave, exclusive discounts, and paid training.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while feeling valued and supported.
- Qualifications: Experience in mental health services and strong customer focus required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 40000 £ per year.
We're looking for a kind, compassionate and resilient Referral, Assessment and Operational Development Manager located at our Head Office in Islington. £40,000.00 per annum, working 35 hours per week. Want to feel valued? You'll feel at home here.
Benefits:
- Annual leave increasing up to 30 days with length of service
- Free DBS
- Exclusive discounts and cashback via Reward Gateway® and opportunity to buy a Blue Light Card
- Fully paid induction programme and further training
All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.
The Referral, Assessment and Operational Development Manager is a senior operational role within the Mental Health and Complex Needs Directorate, responsible for leading the end‑to‑end coordination of referrals, assessments, placements, tenancies, and transitions across the portfolio.
What you’ll do:
- Receive, monitor, and respond promptly to referrals from commissioners, brokerage teams, and direct contacts.
- Coordinate and quality‑assure person‑centred assessments.
- Complete and submit needs assessments, including costings and support package requirements.
- Build and maintain strong working relationships with commissioners, brokerage teams, care managers, and housing partners.
- Support compliance with Ofsted regulations across assessment and placement reviews.
- Develop and embed best‑practice tools and processes aligned with regulatory requirements.
This is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of Look Ahead.
About you: Highly customer-focused, championing customer rights, choice, dignity, independence, and positive outcomes.
What you’ll bring:
Essential:- Significant operational experience within Young People’s and/or Mental Health services, including supported living, residential, or health and social care environments.
- Strong understanding of how local authorities, councils, and Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) commission, procure, and agree services, including pathways and decision‑making processes.
About us: We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.
Referral, Assessment and Operational Development Manager employer: Look Ahead Care, Support and Housing Ltd
Contact Detail:
Look Ahead Care, Support and Housing Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Referral, Assessment and Operational Development Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its values. Tailor your answers to show how your experience aligns with their mission, especially in mental health and complex needs. We want to see your passion shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or family to build confidence. Focus on articulating your operational experience and how it relates to the role of Referral, Assessment and Operational Development Manager.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Referral, Assessment and Operational Development Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in mental health and operational roles. We want to see how your skills align with the responsibilities of the Referral, Assessment and Operational Development Manager position.
Showcase Your Customer Focus: Since this role is all about championing customer rights and positive outcomes, let us know how you've put customers at the heart of your work. Share specific examples that demonstrate your commitment to customer care.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key achievements stand out. This will help us quickly see why you’re a great fit!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Look Ahead Care, Support and Housing Ltd
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Referral, Assessment and Operational Development Manager. Familiarise yourself with the key tasks mentioned in the job description, such as coordinating referrals and assessments, and think about how your experience aligns with these duties.
✨Showcase Your Customer-Focused Approach
Since the role requires a highly customer-focused mindset, prepare examples that demonstrate your commitment to championing customer rights and positive outcomes. Think about specific situations where you've made a difference in someone's experience.
✨Build Relationships in Your Answers
The job involves maintaining strong working relationships with various stakeholders. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous roles, especially with commissioners and care managers. Highlight your communication skills and ability to work as part of a team.
✨Prepare for Regulatory Questions
Given the importance of compliance with Ofsted regulations, brush up on relevant guidelines and be prepared to discuss how you've ensured compliance in past positions. This shows that you understand the regulatory landscape and can navigate it effectively.