At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us in reshaping a 24/7 AMHP service and support individuals with complex mental health needs.
- Company: Manchester City Council, committed to inclusive and innovative mental health practices.
- Benefits: Generous holiday allowance, pension scheme, discounts, and learning opportunities.
- Other info: We welcome diverse applicants and offer a strong commitment to inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in mental health while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified Social Worker, OT, Nurse, or Psychologist with AMHP qualification.
The predicted salary is between 37000 - 44000 £ per year.
About The Role
Working Hours: 6 x 35 Hours Per Week, 1 x 17.5 Hours Per Week
Contract Type: Permanent, Full-Time & Part-Time
Working Style: Onsite - Employees carry out their job primarily from a physical workplace
Additional Payments: Essential Car User Allowance, Shift allowance is likely to apply depending on hours worked
Applicants must have existing right to work in the UK, as visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Qualification:
- Professional qualification (Social Worker, OT, Nurse, Psychologist) and Registration with relevant body (Social Work England, HCPC, NMC)
- AMHP qualification and approval (or ability to achieve within agreed timeframe)
- 2 References – where possible we require 3 years' history.
- Essential Car Documentation – Must hold a full valid driving licence and provide own car for use at work. Essential Car User Allowance will be provided.
- DBS clearance and Enhanced DBS check required. The post is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (amended 2013).
It’s an exciting time to join Manchester as an AMHP. The service is reshaping a 24/7 AMHP model, supporting a service that spans traditional daytime and out-of-hours delivery. Roles will include designing a responsive, 24/7 AMHP service and supporting innovative work across the system.
Working location is Hexagon Tower, Blackley, Manchester (not Town Hall).
About the Candidate
We are looking for experienced, values-driven practitioners passionate about the role of social work within mental health and committed to high-quality, person-centred AMHP practice.
You will bring strong professional curiosity, sound decision-making and the confidence to work within complex, multi-agency environments. You will recognise the importance of relational practice, co-production and trauma-informed approaches, and be committed to upholding people’s rights, voice and dignity within the Mental Health Act framework.
As part of an evolving 24/7 AMHP service, you will be open to new ways of working and motivated by the opportunity to help shape a responsive, sustainable model that bridges daytime and out-of-hours provision.
Essential Requirements:
- Qualified Social Worker, Occupational Therapist, Nurse or Psychologist
- Current registration with the relevant professional regulator (e.g. Social Work England, HCPC, NMC)
- Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP) qualification and current approval (or ability to gain approval within an agreed timeframe)
- Sound knowledge and application of the Mental Health Act, Mental Capacity Act and Care Act, with a strong legal literacy underpinning practice
- Demonstrable experience of working with individuals with complex mental health needs, including risk assessment and management in crisis situations
- Ability to work autonomously and make defensible decisions in high-pressure environments
- Strong partnership working skills, including confidence in challenging appropriately and working across organisational boundaries
- Commitment to anti-discriminatory, strengths-based and trauma-informed practice
- Willingness to work flexibly as part of a developing 24/7 service, including evenings, twilight shifts and extended working days
Desirable:
- Practice Educator or experience supporting/mentoring colleagues, students or AMHP trainees
- Experience of working within or alongside an AMHP rota or out-of-hours service
- Knowledge of local systems and pathways across Greater Manchester (or similar complex systems)
- Experience of service development, quality improvement or contributing to change programmes
- Interest in embedding co-production and working alongside people with lived experience
- Additional training in areas such as safeguarding, DoLS/MCA practice, or trauma-informed care
- Ability to contribute to wider service development, including shaping a 24/7 AMHP model
Benefits we offer:
- Generous holiday allowance – up to 26 days annual leave per year plus bank holidays. Increasing to 31 days after five years of service. Option to purchase up to two additional weeks during the annual leave purchase period.
- Enrolment in the UK’s largest local government pension scheme with options to top up. Includes life cover of three‑times salary as a lump sum.
- Enhanced parental and carers leave, designed to provide ample time to bond with new-born or support family during critical events.
- Access to a range of discounts, including for shopping, holidays, and MCR+ benefits. Additional savings on phone contracts, cycle to work scheme, free flu jabs and eye tests.
- Learning and development opportunities from workshops, training sessions, apprenticeships and qualifications. Comprehensive onboarding process.
- Commitment to fair employment through secure, flexible work, annual pay reviews and support from trade unions.
- Up to 3 days volunteering leave pro‑rate of paid leave.
Creating an Inclusive Team at Manchester City Council:
We actively welcome applications from people of all ages and backgrounds, particularly from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic communities, Disabled people and young people.
Guaranteed Assessment Scheme:
- Members of the Armed Forces and veterans
- Individuals currently in care or who have previously been in care
- Individuals who consider themselves disabled or who have a long‑term condition
- Applicants who have completed the GM Elevate (Leadership Development) Programme or any MCC positive action programmes
When You Join Us:
- A workplace adjustment hub providing specialist support, advice and guidance to ensure you have the adjustments needed to thrive at work.
- Disabled Staff Network, Neurodiversity Staff Network and Mental Health Staff Network providing a safe inclusive space to share experiences and opportunities to influence council practice.
- Strong commitment to ensuring all information adheres to accessibility standards and that our workplaces are accessible and disability‑friendly.
What we will need from you if you're successful:
In accordance with Home Office guidance, successful candidates must evidence their right to work in the UK before commencement of employment.
Pre‑Employment Checks:
Pre‑employment checks required will depend on the role you have applied for. These checks are an important part of our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our workforce and the community we serve.
Other relevant information:
We will make every effort to source any necessary aids, adaptations or equipment. If any task proves to be unachievable, we will look at redesigning parts of the role.
Approved Mental Health Professional in Manchester employer: Old Moat
Joining Manchester City Council as an Approved Mental Health Professional offers a rewarding opportunity to be part of a transformative 24/7 AMHP service, where your expertise will directly impact the lives of individuals with complex mental health needs. With generous holiday allowances, a commitment to professional development, and a supportive work culture that values diversity and inclusion, you will thrive in an environment that prioritises employee well-being and growth. Located in Hexagon Tower, Blackley, Manchester, you will benefit from a vibrant community and access to extensive resources aimed at fostering a fulfilling career in mental health.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Approved Mental Health Professional in Manchester
✨Dive into Local Community Groups
Social work thrives on community connections, so get involved in local groups or forums specific to your interests. Whether it’s volunteering at local shelters or joining community action boards, these are great ways to boost your visibility and make direct contacts that could lead to opportunities like the one at Old Moat.
✨Attend Social Work Events and Workshops
Keep an eye out for workshops, seminars, or conferences in social work. These events are fantastic for meeting professionals in the field, learning about emerging trends, and spotting job openings. Plus, you might just bump into someone from Old Moat!
✨Showcase Your Passion and Expertise
Use platforms like Instagram or LinkedIn to share your journey and insights into the social work sector. Whether it’s writing about your experiences or sharing relevant articles, this helps to establish you as an engaged professional. Potential employers, like Old Moat, will notice your enthusiasm!
✨Leverage Your Network
Don’t hesitate to reach out to professors, mentors, or even past colleagues who are in social work. They might have inside knowledge about openings at Old Moat or be able to connect you with someone who’s hiring. Networking is key, especially in a full-time role where relationships matter.
We think you need these skills to ace Approved Mental Health Professional in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let us see your passion for social work shine through! Talk about the experiences that made you want to pursue this career—whether it’s volunteering, personal experiences, or academic projects. We want to know why this field matters to you.
Emphasise Relevant Qualifications:Make sure your CV highlights any relevant qualifications, like degrees in social work or certifications like a DBS check. If you've done any workshops or training, don’t forget to include those as well. We're keen to see your commitment to your professional development!
Detail Your Experience with Clients:Since this is a hands-on field, detailing any direct experience you have with clients is crucial. Whether it's internships, volunteer roles, or previous jobs, highlight those experiences in your CV to show us you've got the practical skills necessary for the job!
Tailor Your Application to Old Moat:Before hitting send, make sure to tailor your application specifically to Old Moat! Research our mission and values, and refer to them in your cover letter. This shows us that you understand our work and are genuinely interested in being a part of our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Old Moat
✨Understanding the Role of Empathy
In social work, understanding and demonstrating empathy is key. Be prepared to share personal experiences or scenarios where you effectively showed compassion and support. This helps show that you genuinely care about the well-being of others, which is crucial in social work.
✨Demonstrating Knowledge of Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with the frameworks and models used in social work, such as the Strengths-Based Approach or the Ecological Perspective. Be ready to discuss how these frameworks apply to your work, especially if you can tie them into real-world examples or case studies you've encountered.
✨Showcasing Your Multi-Disciplinary Skills
In a full-time social work role, you'll often collaborate with healthcare professionals, educators, and law enforcement. Be prepared to describe your teamwork experiences and how you've effectively communicated with other disciplines to achieve the best outcomes for clients.
✨Preparing for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical social work situations, such as dealing with a crisis or managing a complex case. Think through your thought process for these scenarios beforehand, considering how you'd assess the situation and what steps you'd take, as this demonstrates your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
