At a Glance
- Tasks: Support patients in making decisions about their care and rights in a secure environment.
- Company: Compassionate organisation dedicated to mental health advocacy.
- Benefits: Part-time hours, competitive salary, and comprehensive training provided.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in mental health services and a commitment to advocacy principles.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are seeking a committed, skilled, and compassionate advocate to support patients detained under the Mental Health Act within a medium secure forensic setting.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide information, support, and representation to patients, enabling them to participate in decisions about their care, treatment, legal rights, and daily life.
- Ensure patients’ views are heard and respected in all relevant processes.
- Establish and maintain trustful relationships with service users to build engagement.
- Work with individuals and groups to develop and express a collective point of view.
- Liaise with professionals and services to promote the Advocacy and IMHA service.
- Support the Manager in delivering training and raising awareness of advocacy services.
- Assist in designing and providing self-advocacy training for service users and other groups.
- Maintain detailed case notes, accurate statistical information, and other records for service evaluation and reporting.
- Participate in regular supervision sessions and adhere to the principles and policies of Together and the Advocacy Charter.
- Complete required accredited training, including the IMHA module of the National Advocacy Qualification within the first year of employment.
- Maintain professional boundaries in all aspects of work with service users.
Qualifications
- Level 3 National Advocacy Qualification (NAQ) or willingness to achieve within the first year.
- At least 3 years’ experience as an IMHA or in mental health services, healthcare, or other public-facing roles.
Essential Skills & Experience
- Experience supporting vulnerable individuals through paid work, voluntary work, or life experience.
- Understanding of advocacy principles, role, and responsibilities of an IMHA.
- Knowledge of discrimination and its effects.
- Experience liaising and negotiating with health and social care professionals.
- Competence in email and word-processing software.
- Non-judgemental, empathetic attitude and ability to create a safe, trusting environment.
- Ability to work independently, prioritize workload, and collaborate as part of a team.
- Ability to maintain professional boundaries with service users.
- Ability to work alongside individuals experiencing mental distress.
Desirable
- Experience in an advocacy or care setting.
- Level 4 Independent Mental Health Advocacy qualification.
Training & Development
All mandatory training will be provided, including annual breakaway and physical disengagement training, which requires an appropriate level of physical ability.
Job Details
- Hours: Part-time, 22.5 hours per week.
- Salary: £27,869.95 per year (pro rata) plus £620 geographical allowance per year (pro rata).
Independent Mental Health Advocate - Wathwood in Leicester employer: Together for Mental Wellbeing
Together for Mental Wellbeing is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its staff while fostering a supportive and compassionate work culture. Located in the heart of Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, employees benefit from competitive pay, comprehensive training opportunities, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals with complex needs. Join us to be part of a dedicated team that values your passion for helping others and encourages your professional journey.
Contact Details:
Together for Mental Wellbeing Recruitment Team
