At a Glance
- Tasks: Support residents with complex mental health needs and collaborate with various specialists.
- Company: L&Q, a leading housing association committed to community wellbeing.
- Benefits: Generous salary, excellent pension, 28 days leave, and lifestyle perks.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while working in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Relevant qualification or significant experience in mental health services required.
The predicted salary is between 42149 - 46410 £ per year.
Contract Type: Permanent, Full Time – 35 Hours
Salary: £42,149 to £46,410 per annum (London weighted), plus ECU* if policy requirements are met.
Grade: 8
Reporting Office: London, Stratford or Morden Road, CR4 4DA
Working Location: South West, London
Persona: Agile Worker – 20% to 40% of contractual hours to be worked from reporting office (hybrid working)
Working Pattern: 9-5 Monday to Friday
Closing Date: 2nd June 2026 – 23:00
Benefits:
- Excellent pension plan (up to 6% double contribution)
- 28 days annual leave rising to 31 days with length of service + bank holidays
- Westfield Health Cash Plan
- Non-contributory life assurance
- Up to 21 hours volunteering paid days
- Lifestyle benefits
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Additional benefits (details on request)
Role Overview:
Operate at the interface of housing, health, safeguarding and community services – using specialist knowledge to support informed decision-making and deliver joined‑up responses for residents with complex mental health needs. Collaborate closely with housing management teams and an established network of specialists, including a Mental Health Lead, Mental Health Practitioners, Safeguarding and Vulnerability Specialists, and Domestic Abuse Specialists. Provide expert guidance to assess need, identify risk and determine appropriate service pathways – including navigation to primary care, secondary care and crisis services. Work as part of a wider multi‑agency system, using professional judgement and clear clinical communication to ensure residents are connected to the right support at the right time, contributing to improved outcomes and sustainable tenancies. Contribute mental health expertise to manage complexity, reduce risk and embed confident, consistent practice across housing services. Report into the Mental Health Lead as part of the Housing Specialisms team.
Your Impact in the Role:
Lead collaboratively with Mental Health Practitioners, Domestic Abuse Specialists and Vulnerability & Safeguarding Specialists to provide subject‑area expertise within the Housing Management service. Develop and implement initiatives and resources to improve outcomes for residents. Support and mentor teams to better understand mental health service provision and navigate appropriate services, improving resident outcomes.
What You’ll Bring (Essential Requirements):
- A relevant professional qualification (e.g. Social Work, Occupational Therapy, Mental Health Nursing, PWP) or significant demonstrable experience working within mental health services at an equivalent level, with a minimum of two years' practice.
- Strong working knowledge of mental health systems, social care and third‑sector services, with proven ability to assess need and navigate individuals to appropriate pathways.
- Demonstrable experience working collaboratively with statutory and partner agencies to achieve positive outcomes, including influencing decisions and contributing to multi‑agency approaches.
- Sound knowledge of legislation, regulation and best practice in mental health and safeguarding, with the ability to apply this effectively in complex case management.
- Advanced case management skills, including the ability to assess risk, formulate options, make defensible decisions and implement practical, outcome‑focused solutions.
- Ability to work autonomously, exercising professional judgement, including recognising when to escalate risk or seek additional input.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to use clear, appropriate language when working with residents and professionals, and to support colleagues to build confidence and capability.
DBS:
For this post the successful candidate will need to apply for or be in possession of a Basic Disclosure Barring Service certificate (DBS) to enable them to work within the team.
Reasonable Adjustments:
If you require any reasonable adjustments at any stage during this process, including the application stage, please email lqcareers@lqgroup.org.uk
Employment Equality Statement:
L&Q is an equal opportunities employer. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, including disabled and ethnic minority candidates.
Previous Applicants May Not Apply – (if prior applications were regretted within 12 weeks). With effect from February 2026, L&Q reserve the right to not shortlist applications from candidates with 3 or more unsuccessful applications within the last 24 months.
Mental Health Practitioner employer: L&Q Living
L&Q is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its employees, offering a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package including an excellent pension plan and generous annual leave. With a collaborative work culture that values mental health expertise and multi-agency partnerships, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact in the community while enjoying flexible hybrid working arrangements in vibrant South West London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mental Health Practitioner
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the mental health field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a job that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of mental health systems and legislation. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to multi-agency approaches and improve outcomes for residents. Show them you’re the expert they need!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on organisations that align with your values and expertise. Check out our website for roles that match your skills and passion for mental health. Tailor your approach to each application!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Use this opportunity to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and how you can make a difference in the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Mental Health Practitioner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of a Mental Health Practitioner. Use keywords from the job description to show we’re on the same page!
Showcase Your Experience:Don’t just list your qualifications; share specific examples of your work in mental health services. We want to see how you’ve made a difference in previous roles and how that can translate to our team.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point!
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!
How to prepare for a job interview at L&Q Living
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of mental health systems and the specific services relevant to the role. Familiarise yourself with the legislation and best practices in mental health and safeguarding, as these will likely come up during the interview.
✨Showcase Collaboration Skills
Since this role involves working closely with various specialists, be prepared to discuss your experience in collaborative settings. Think of examples where you've successfully worked with other professionals to achieve positive outcomes for clients.
✨Demonstrate Decision-Making Ability
Be ready to talk about how you assess risk and make decisions in complex situations. Prepare a few scenarios where you had to navigate challenging cases, highlighting your thought process and the outcomes of your actions.
✨Communicate Clearly
Excellent communication is key in this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You might want to prepare answers that demonstrate your ability to use appropriate language when discussing sensitive topics with residents and colleagues.
