At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide tailored mental health support and guidance to students with complex needs.
- Company: Join the University of Derby, a top-rated institution committed to student wellbeing.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days annual leave, flexible working, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional development and career progression in a dynamic setting.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while shaping mental health policies.
- Qualifications: Experience in mental health support and excellent communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 32260 - 36251 £ per year.
About the University
We have one simple promise – to make a positive impact. Through our ground-breaking research, teaching excellence and commitment to sustainable living, we are changing lives for the better. The University of Derby is a modern university with a modern outlook. Everything we do is driven by delivering excellence and opportunities for our students, our staff and our region. We have some of the best university facilities in the UK and achieve outstanding results for our teaching and research and have been awarded Gold in the prestigious Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023 – making it one of the top universities in the country recognised for its outstanding student experience and student outcomes.
Financially strong and seriously ambitious we offer our employees an inclusive culture that centres itself around staff wellbeing, where you can be confident you will receive all the help and encouragement you need to build a rewarding career with lots of opportunities to enhance your skills.
About the College/Department
The Registry support all aspects of the student journey, right from initial enquiry and application, all the way through to final award and student completion. We strive to provide an outstanding service to all our users and to be thought leaders in our fields of expertise, developing research informed practise. Registry teams work collaboratively with stakeholders to deliver a high-performance culture that promotes wellbeing, diversity and opportunity for all, supporting excellent student experience.
Student Services provides a range of student support, information, guidance and development services across the University including counselling, disability, mental health, financial support and other key services delivered centrally. These teams work closely together (and with other sections of the university) to provide the best possible services to our students, to enhance the student experience, to help students achieve their full potential and to meet the strategic aims of the University. These services are central to the student experience, they are visible, seamless, effective and tailored to the needs of our student community.
About the Role
The Mental Health Coordinator plays a key role in the delivery of a specialist, student-centred mental health support service, acting as a central point of expertise for students experiencing mental health difficulties. Working with students who have complex and varied needs, you will provide assessment, risk management, tailored support plans, and advice on reasonable adjustments to help them succeed in their studies and university life. You will work collaboratively with academic teams, professional services, and external agencies to ensure coordinated and effective support, while also providing expert guidance and training to staff across the University. In addition, you will lead and supervise trainee and associate counsellors, contribute to service development, and play an important role in shaping policies, strategies, and inclusive practices that promote student wellbeing. This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact on student experience while helping to drive a whole-university approach to mental health and wellbeing.
About You
We are looking for someone with substantial post-qualification experience supporting individuals with complex mental health needs. You will have a strong background in assessing and managing risk, responding to crisis situations, and working with people experiencing severe and enduring mental health difficulties. The successful candidate will be experienced in delivering effective one-to-one support both in person and remotely, building positive relationships with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. You will be comfortable working within a complex environment, collaborating with multiple stakeholders and balancing competing priorities to achieve positive outcomes. You will also possess excellent communication and presentation skills, with the confidence to deliver training and engage with large groups of students and staff. Strong organisational skills and a commitment to professional practice are essential, including experience of maintaining accurate case records and supporting clients over sustained periods to achieve their personal and academic goals.
Benefits
- Generous annual leave entitlement of 38 days inclusive of bank holidays and concessionary days (pro rata)
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Suite of holistic wellbeing benefits and support including family-friendly policies, generous sick pay provision and comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme
- Access to a variety of staff discounts at high street retailers
- Discounted onsite gym
- Cycle to Work scheme
- A flexible working environment
- A commitment to personal and professional development
Key Contact
For further information and informal enquiries regarding the role, please contact Lucy Doherty, Student Welfare Manager.
Important Information
The University is unable to sponsor the employment of international workers under the Skilled Worker route for this role; however, applications are welcome from candidates who are able to demonstrate an alternative right to work in the UK.
This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974 and is therefore subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Any information you provide will be treated in confidence and only used when considering your suitability for the post. To enable us to process your DBS check please ensure you are able to supply the documentation listed on the DBS website at interview stage.
The University of Derby is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all our staff, students and children. At the University of Derby, safeguarding is everybody's concern.
Closing Date: 25 Aug 2026
Salary: £32,260 to £36,251 per annum (for exceptional performers, there is scope for further progression up to £41,689 per annum)
Mental Health Coordinator (0180-26) - Derby, DE22 1GB employer: University of Derby
The University of Derby is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation in IT service delivery. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to professional growth opportunities and a generous benefits package, all while contributing to a vibrant academic community dedicated to enhancing user systems and maintaining high security standards.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mental Health Coordinator (0180-26) - Derby, DE22 1GB
✨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 University of Derby. 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 University of Derby.
We think you need these skills to ace Mental Health Coordinator (0180-26) - Derby, DE22 1GB
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 University of Derby:Take some time to research University of Derby 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 University of Derby
✨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 University of Derby's values and approach.
