At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals with severe mental health issues and complex histories through tailored care plans.
- Company: Join SAMH, Scotland's leading mental health charity with over 100 years of impactful service.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive leave, funded qualifications, and continuous learning opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible shifts required; full training provided to help you succeed.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in mental health or social care is essential; compassion and communication skills are key.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
Position
This position is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.
We have a vacancies for a Mental Health Practitioners - Forensic based in West Lothian.
Company
Around since 1923, SAMH is Scotland's national mental health charity.
We have represented the voice of people most affected by mental health problems in Scotland for over 100 years.
Today, in over 60 communities we work with adults and young people providing mental health social care support, services in primary care, schools and further education, among others.
These services together with our national programme work in The Nooks, respectme, suicide prevention and active living; inform our policy and campaign work to influence positive social change.
SAMH is dedicated to mental health and wellbeing for all: with a vision of a society where people are able to live their lives fully, regardless of present or past circumstances.
Role Overview
As a Mental Health Practitioner - Forensic, you will develop purposeful, professional relationships with people experiencing severe and enduring mental health problems who also have complex forensic, offending or justice-related histories.
Using a person-centred, recovery-focused and trauma-informed approach, you will work collaboratively with individuals to identify their goals, develop and review support plans, and contribute to robust risk assessment and risk-management planning.
You will support people to develop greater independence, sustain their accommodation, strengthen community connections and reduce factors associated with deterioration in mental health, relapse or further offending.
Working within clear professional boundaries, you will contribute to multi-disciplinary and multiagency planning, share relevant information appropriately, maintain high-quality records and support agreed safeguarding and public-protection arrangements.
Responsibilities
What we are looking for
The successful candidate will demonstrate a responsible, compassionate and non-judgemental approach, together with excellent communication, listening and relationship-building skills.
You will be able to balance person-centred and recovery-focused practice with professional curiosity, clear boundaries and proportionate management of risk.
Experience within mental health, forensic, criminal justice, homelessness or social care services is essential.
- Required Competencies
- Contribute effectively to support planning, risk assessment and risk management.
- Recognise and respond appropriately to changes in an individual's presentation, behaviour or circumstances.
- Maintain clear, accurate and professionally appropriate records.
- Identify, communicate and escalation concerns appropriately.
- Work collaboratively with health, social care, criminal justice and other partner agencies.
- Maintain appropriate professional boundaries when supporting people with complex needs.
- Promote choice, rights, recovery and positive risk-taking while remaining attentive to individual and wider safety.
- Understand the importance of safeguarding, confidentiality, information sharing and public protection within a forensic setting.
- An understanding of recovery, trauma-informed practice, safeguarding and the potential impact of offending or justice involvement on an individual's life would be desirable.
Full induction and role-specific training would be provided.
Due to the wide area our service covers, access to you your own transport would be beneficial.
Shift & Working Hours
Our service operates 24/7 Monday - Sunday all year.
Variable shift working is required (shift length from 8-12 hours) depending on service need.
This role will require waking nights and weekend work.
What we will provide for you
You will work in a supportive environment and will be provided with a full induction and training opportunities.
You will be given the chance to develop your knowledge and skills, as well as develop professionally.
- Some of our benefits include;
- Fully funded SVQ qualification to meet the conditions of your SSSC registration
- Reimbursement of PVG, Disclosure & SSSC annual fees and registration costs
- Funded continuous learning and development opportunities, access to over 100 courses online in addition to classroom and virtual training sessions
- 30 days annual leave rising to 33 after 5 years' service (pro rata)
- 4 public holidays (pro rata)
- 2 paid wellbeing days off per year to use on what matters to you (pro rata)
- Team wellbeing budgets
- Workplace pension scheme
- Life Assurance policy
- Employee Assistance Programme
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Mental Health Practitioner - Forensic in Bathgate employer: Scottish Action for Mental Health
Scottish Action for Mental Health is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. Located in Kirkcaldy, our organisation provides comprehensive training opportunities, a generous leave policy of 30 days annual leave, and various perks including a workplace pension scheme and employee assistance programs, making it a rewarding place to work for those passionate about mental health recovery.
Contact Details:
Scottish Action for Mental Health Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mental Health Practitioner - Forensic in Bathgate
✨Connect Through Professional Networks
Join associations related to therapy and counselling, like the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). They often have job boards, events, and forums where you can meet potential employers and like-minded professionals. Being active in these spaces can give you a significant edge.
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If you’re recently graduated or still in school, don't forget to tap into your university's career resources. They often have exclusive listings for full-time positions and can help you refine your interview skills. Plus, they might connect you with alumni who’re already working at places like Scottish Action for Mental Health.
We think you need these skills to ace Mental Health Practitioner - Forensic in Bathgate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Qualifications:Make sure to showcase any relevant qualifications you've completed, such as a degree in psychology or counselling certifications. This is super important in the therapy and counselling field, so don’t skip over these details in your CV.
Showcase Your Empathy Skills:In your cover letter, it's essential to demonstrate your empathy and communication skills, which are key in therapy. Share specific examples from your previous experiences where you've effectively helped someone through a tough time—this will make your application stand out.
Demonstrate Your Continued Learning:We love seeing candidates who are committed to ongoing professional development. Mention any workshops, seminars, or additional training you’ve attended recently. This not only boosts your CV but shows your passion for the field.
Personalise Your Application for Scottish Action for Mental Health:Take some time to research Scottish Action for Mental Health and reflect this understanding in your application. Explain why you’re interested in working with them specifically and how your values align with their approach—this personal touch can make all the difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Action for Mental Health
✨Show Your Empathy and Communication Skills
In therapy and counselling, it's all about how well you connect with others. Be ready to share examples of how you've demonstrated empathy, active listening, and non-verbal communication in past experiences. Your ability to create rapport with clients is key, so let that shine through!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face some scenario-based questions that assess your practical skills in dealing with clients. Think of various client situations or challenges you've encountered or could encounter. Practice how you would respond, ensuring you highlight your problem-solving abilities and therapeutic techniques.
✨Highlight Your Continuing Education
Being in a full-time role in therapy means you need to stay updated with the latest techniques and theories. Mention any professional development courses you've taken recently, or plans you have for ongoing education. This shows that you’re committed to growth in your field and eager to help your clients with the best approaches.
✨Finesse Your Personal Statement
In therapy, your personal statement is a chance to showcase who you are beyond your qualifications. Tailor it to not just highlight your credentials but also your passion for helping others. Share personal stories or insights that led you to this profession, reinforcing why you'd be a great fit for Scottish Action for Mental Health's values and approach.
