Director of Policy and Practice

Social network you want to login/join with: Job Title: Director of Policy and Practice We are seeking an experienced and passionate Director of Policy and Practice to join our Policy and Practice Team at Rethink Mental Illness. Join an organisation dedicated to supporting those severely impacted by mental illness. We value respect, dignity, and equity, drawing on the diverse perspectives and lived experiences of our community to foster an inclusive, anti-racist environment. We are a mental health charity committed to reflecting the communities we serve. The Policy and Practice team plays a crucial role in advancing our mission by influencing national policy and integrating local service insights to ensure systemic changes benefit individuals and communities. Our approach emphasizes collaboration with individuals with lived experience, ensuring policies are grounded in real-world needs. We have a proven co-production model that shapes Integrated Care Systems and Provider Collaboratives across England, and our influence is amplified through active participation in key policy networks such as the Mental Health Policy Group and the Richmond Group. How You Will Make a Difference The Director of Policy and Practice will provide critical leadership, shaping and implementing impactful policy and practice strategies that influence both national and local systems. You will amplify the voice of lived experience and drive tangible improvements in services for those with severe mental illness. Responsibilities include developing evidence-based policy positions, building relationships with government, NHS, and stakeholders, and ensuring Rethink Mental Illness remains a credible voice in mental health reform, including areas like the Mental Health Act, community mental health, housing, employment, and social security. You will also translate best practices into service innovations, oversee a portfolio of programs, and ensure insights from co-produced services inform policy and practice. As part of the Directors Team under the Executive Team, you will contribute to organisational strategy, championing co-production, equality, and sustainability. This role requires strategic insight, systems leadership, and a deep understanding of social determinants of health to build a fairer, more compassionate mental health system. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism We believe diversity, inclusiveness, and belonging strengthen our workplace and improve the support we provide. We draw on our community\’s experiences to better reflect the populations we serve. Our staff networks support ethnically diverse and LGBTQIA+ colleagues, shaping our culture and accountability. We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and a signatory to the Race at Work Charter. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, especially from individuals with lived experience of mental illness, and those identifying as LGBTQIA+, neurodiverse, disabled, or from racially minoritized groups. We are committed to becoming a truly anti-racist organisation through a multi-year Race Equality Action Plan that sets out our commitments and accountability measures. If you have any questions about the position, please contact – #J-18808-Ljbffr