At a Glance
- Tasks: Inspire hope and support individuals with serious mental health needs on their recovery journey.
- Company: Second Step, a leading mental health charity in the Southwest.
- Benefits: Flexible working, comprehensive training, and supportive team environment.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are at our core; we welcome all applicants.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills in mental health support.
- Qualifications: Passion for mental health, strong communication skills, and ability to work independently.
The predicted salary is between 26912 - 32892 £ per year.
Could you inspire hope for people who are struggling with their mental health? Second Step is a leading mental health charity in the Southwest offering housing, support and hope to people with mental health and support needs. Our vision is a world where everyone affected by mental health problems can create a positive future. We promote mental health and wellbeing by supporting people and communities to build brighter futures.
We’re recruiting a Recovery Navigator to join our Intensive Outreach Service in South Wiltshire, supporting people referred from AWP services for up to six weeks to help prevent hospital admission or to support their independence after leaving a psychiatric hospital, as well as helping those experiencing serious or sudden mental health difficulties. The IOS team exists because people in acute mental health distress often fall between services—too unwell to cope alone but not always needing long hospital stays. IOS bridges this gap by providing intensive, practical, and emotional support at home to keep people safe, stable, and moving forward. This role has become available following a long-term employee's resignation due to ill health.
About the role
- Provide short-term, person-centred, trauma-informed support to people with serious mental health needs.
- Support safe transitions between hospital and home, working independently with a personal caseload and delivering structured 1:1 community-based support.
- Support individuals to prevent/reduce intensive mental health symptoms to prevent psychiatric hospital admission.
- Work collaboratively with clinical teams and community partners while helping individuals build independence and set/achieve support goals.
- Permanent contract with flexible working; must have a driving licence and own vehicle (car or motorbike) due to county-wide travel requirements.
- Receive support for the role including Second Step induction/training, access to reflective practice spaces, regular supervisions, and debriefing options should it be needed.
Full details of this exciting opportunity can be found in the role profile.
About you
- Be passionate about improving the lived experience and well-being of people using mental health services.
- Have sound knowledge of the support needs of people with moderate–to–serious mental health difficulties.
- Have a sound knowledge of available mental health teams and resources in the locality.
- Be able to work in a person‑centred, trauma‑informed, recovery‑focused way, with empathy and non‑judgement.
- Be adaptable, resilient, and confident working independently in the community while managing your own caseload.
- Be a strong communicator who collaborates well with clinical teams, partners, and community services.
What we offer
- To be part of a friendly team, with direct support from a senior recovery navigator and line manager.
- Team support from a psychologist in-depth induction to Second Step and all the relevant training and support you need to do your job well.
- Blended working – a combination of home, office and community-based working.
- Monthly one-to-one sessions with your line manager.
- Weekly team meetings.
- Monthly group reflective practice with your wider team.
If you are interested in this role but are concerned that you may not have the experience or knowledge please contact us for an informal conversation, we would very much like to hear from you. Please contact: Jessica Chivers, Manager of IOS.
About us
We are taking positive action to increase diversity throughout our organisation, and to nurture a culture of inclusion for all our people and the clients that we support. We welcome applications from everyone who meets the criteria and strongly encourage individuals who identify as being of Black, African, Caribbean or Asian descent to apply as these groups are currently under-represented at Second Step. To ensure fairness and consistency, all applications are anonymised up until an interview has been confirmed so that shortlisting is based solely upon the suitability of the candidate’s skills and qualities.
Closing date: Tuesday 15th September 2026
Interview date: 21st & 23rd of September 2026
Recovery Navigator, South Wiltshire in Salisbury employer: Second Step
Second Step is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and collaborative work culture that prioritises the well-being of both clients and staff. Located in the heart of the Southwest, we offer our employees comprehensive benefits, including generous annual leave and extensive training opportunities, ensuring personal and professional growth in the rewarding field of mental health support.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Recovery Navigator, South Wiltshire in Salisbury
✨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.
✨Show Up at Local Mental Health Events
Look for workshops, seminars, and conferences focused on mental health in your area. Not only can you learn valuable insights, but you can also network with professionals who might be aware of full-time opportunities, like the ones at Second Step. Plus, showing your passion for the field in person can leave a lasting impression.
✨Utilise Online Platforms Tailored to Counselling
Websites like TherapyJobs or Indeed specifically cater to therapy professionals. Make sure to check these regularly for new listings, and consider setting up alerts to stay ahead of the game. Plus, applying directly through these platforms can sometimes give you better visibility.
✨Leverage University Career Services
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 Second Step.
We think you need these skills to ace Recovery Navigator, South Wiltshire in Salisbury
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 Second Step:Take some time to research Second Step 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 Second Step
✨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 Second Step's values and approach.
