At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Mental Health Act Administration Team and ensure compliance with mental health legislation.
- Company: Join Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, a supportive and inclusive workplace.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, NHS pension, and exclusive discounts.
- Other info: Experience a vibrant lifestyle in beautiful Somerset, close to major cities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in mental health care while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree-level qualification and knowledge of mental health law required.
The predicted salary is between 57528 - 64750 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Mental Health Act Lead/Manager to provide expert leadership, strategic oversight and specialist guidance on the Mental Health Act (including 2025 reforms) and associated legislation across the Trust. The post holder will lead and manage the Mental Health Act Administration Team, foster strong working relationships with clinical services, and develop a Mental Health Law Hub as the central source of legal expertise, governance support and best practice. This role requires an individual with advanced knowledge of mental health law, excellent communication skills, and the ability to navigate complex operational, legal and governance demands while supporting high quality, safe patient care.
Main duties of the job
- Lead and manage the Mental Health Act Administration Team, ensuring effective coordination of Mental Health Act processes Trust wide.
- Work closely with mental health inpatient wards to ensure lawful, safe, and compliant application of the Mental Health Act in line with Trust policy and national guidance.
- Develop, implement and oversee a Mental Health Law Hub as a central specialist resource for staff, leaders, and committees.
- Provide expert professional advice to the Trust Board and its committees on all matters relating to the Mental Health Act, Human Rights Act and associated legislation.
- Plan, commission, deliver and evaluate Mental Health Act training programmes for staff, Hospital Managers and Non Executive Directors.
- Lead the development, review and implementation of all Mental Health Act related policies, processes and governance systems.
- Oversee monitoring of Mental Health Act activity, trends and compliance, ensuring accurate reporting and supporting quality improvement.
- Maintain effective working relationships with clinical teams, Hospital Managers, the Care Quality Commission and external bodies.
- Support responses to CQC reports, serious incidents, legal challenges and concerns related to Mental Health Act practice.
- Work flexibly according to the needs of the service.
About us
At Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, we're committed to supporting our employees with a range of benefits designed to enhance your professional and personal life. We offer:
- Flexible working options to help you balance work and life
- NHS pension scheme for long-term financial security
- Generous annual leave allowance to recharge and relax
- A strong focus on career development to help you grow and achieve your potential
Additionally, you'll gain access to our Blue Light Card, unlocking exclusive discounts on shopping, dining, and leisure activities, as well as NHS-specific perks to support you both inside and outside of work. We are proud to foster a diverse, skilled, and inclusive workforce, and we encourage applications from all backgrounds.
Why Somerset?
Somerset offers the perfect blend of idyllic countryside, outstanding areas of natural beauty, and breathtaking coastlines, with vibrant cities like Bristol, Bath, and Exeter just a short drive away - and only two hours to London. The region is home to excellent educational facilities, and with affordable housing compared to other parts of the country, it's a great place to build both your career and your future. Somerset truly has it all - the peaceful countryside and cosmopolitan city life, with something for everyone to enjoy.
Details
- Date posted: 06 August 2026
- Pay scheme: Agenda for change
- Band: Band 8a
- Salary: £57,528 to £64,750 a year
- Contract: Permanent
- Working pattern: Full-time
- Reference number: 184-OL-GR-5465
- Job locations: Broadway House, Broadway Park, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 5LX, United Kingdom
Job responsibilities
- Leadership & Team Management: Lead and supervise the Mental Health Act Administration Team. Support recruitment, training and development of MHA Administrators and Hospital Managers. Ensure effective daily coordination of MHA processes across the Trust.
- Governance & Legal Compliance: Oversee compliance with the Mental Health Act (including 2025 reforms), Human Rights Act and related legislation. Maintain robust systems for monitoring MHA activity, risks and trends. Respond to CQC concerns and support action plans following inspections or incidents.
- Mental Health Law Hub: Develop and maintain a central hub for Mental Health Act expertise. Provide accessible guidance, resources and legal updates for staff. Act as the Trust's expert reference point for MHA advice.
- Training & Education: Identify training needs and develop a Trustwide MHA training programme. Deliver core and specialist MHA training to staff, Hospital Managers and Non-Executive Directors. Work with Learning & Development to ensure high quality educational provision.
- Communication & Relationship Management: Build effective relationships with clinical teams, Hospital Managers, CQC, legal teams and external partners. Represent the Trust at local and national meetings relating to mental health law. Contribute to committees and provide regular reports and updates.
- Policy & Service Development: Lead on creation, review and implementation of MHA related policies and procedures. Identify changes in legislation and case law, advising on their impact. Support service improvements, quality initiatives and best practice development.
- Data, Reporting & Quality Assurance: Work with Information teams to ensure accurate MHA data and reporting. Analyse trends and performance to support governance and improvement work. Ensure documentation meets statutory and Trust standards.
- Patient Care & Safety: Ensure safe, lawful MHA processes across all clinical services. Make relevant information accessible to patients, carers and staff. Support investigations following MHA-related incidents or complaints.
- Other Requirements: Travel across the county as needed. Work flexibly to meet service demands. Maintain confidentiality, uphold safeguarding responsibilities and comply with all Trust policies.
Person Specification
- Qualifications
- Essential: Degree level qualification
- Desirable: Legal qualification; Professional qualification/registration in and experience of working as a mental health professional, i.e. social work, nursing, OT
- Experience
- Essential: Understanding of Patient and Staff confidentiality; Understanding of the different legal responsibilities held by various public bodies relating to mental health legislation.
- Desirable: Experience of implementing these pieces of legislation in a clinical or social care setting.
- Additional Criteria
- Essential: In-depth knowledge of The Mental Health Act, The Mental Capacity Act, the Deprivation of Liberty safeguards, Liberty Protection safeguards, all of their related codes of practice and relevant case law. Working knowledge of related legislation such as the Care Act and the Health and Social Care Act. Ability to travel across the county as required.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Employer details
Employer name: Somerset NHS Foundation Trust
Address: Broadway House, Broadway Park, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 5LX, United Kingdom
Mental Health Act Lead in Bridgwater employer: National health service
At Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work environment that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With flexible working options, a generous annual leave allowance, and a strong focus on career development, we empower our staff to thrive while making a meaningful impact in mental health care. Located in the picturesque Somerset region, our Trust provides access to stunning countryside and vibrant cities, making it an ideal place to build both your career and personal life.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mental Health Act Lead in Bridgwater
✨Get Involved with Local Health Initiatives
Join local community health events or volunteer for organisations like public health agencies. This not only builds your experience but also helps you network with industry professionals who might know of openings at places like National health service.
✨Tap into Professional Associations
Check out associations like the Institute of Healthcare Management. They often have job boards, networking events, and conferences that are perfect for connecting with potential employers in health sciences administration.
✨Stay Updated with Industry Trends
Follow health policy news and trends—being knowledgeable about the current landscape will not only help you in interviews but also make you stand out as a candidate. You can discuss recent developments and their implications when chatting with folks at National health service.
✨Apply Through Our Website for Better Visibility
When you find roles that excite you, especially at places like National health service, don’t forget to apply through our website. This can sometimes give you an edge by showing the employer you’re savvy and committed to finding the right fit.
We think you need these skills to ace Mental Health Act Lead in Bridgwater
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in health sciences administration, it's super important to spotlight any relevant experience you have in healthcare settings. Whether you've worked in a hospital, a clinic, or any related environment, make sure to detail those roles in your CV – focusing on your responsibilities and achievements that align with the job at National health service.
Showcase Your Administrative Skills:Administrative skills are key in this field, so don’t hold back! Make sure your CV reflects your proficiency in things like scheduling, data management, and compliance with health regulations. Mention specific software you’ve used, such as patient management systems, as this will demonstrate your hands-on abilities and readiness for the role at National health service.
Craft a Meaningful Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the health sciences field and your eagerness to contribute to National health service. Share a bit about why you’re drawn to this sector, any impactful situations or challenges you’ve encountered, and how they’ve shaped your desire to work in health sciences administration. This personal touch can really set you apart!
Tailor Your Documents to the Job:Don't use a one-size-fits-all approach! Make sure your CV and cover letter are specifically tailored for this role. Highlight any certifications you have relevant to health administration, and ensure you clearly connect your previous roles to the skills needed for the full-time position at National health service. This way, you're showing them you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at National health service
✨Showcase Your Administrative Skills
In health sciences administration, being organised is key. Make sure you can demonstrate your skills in managing schedules, paperwork, and data accurately. Be ready to discuss specific tools you've used, like electronic health record systems or scheduling software, and how they improved efficiency in your past experiences.
✨Know Your Regulations
Familiarity with healthcare regulations and compliance is crucial. Brush up on HIPAA, GDPR, or other relevant policies before your interview. We recommend preparing examples of how you've ensured compliance or handled sensitive information in past roles—this will show you're not just knowledgeable but also responsible.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Interviews for administrative roles often involve scenario-based questions to assess your problem-solving skills. Practice responses to common situations you might face, such as dealing with a challenging patient or managing a sudden schedule change. This will not only demonstrate your ability to think on your feet but also highlight your interpersonal skills.
✨Align Your Goals with the Organisation
As a full-time candidate, employers will want to know how your long-term career goals align with their mission. Take some time to research National health service’s values and be ready to tie your passion for health sciences administration into their objectives. Demonstrating enthusiasm and career alignment can be a game-changer in this competitive field!
