Community Link Worker

Change Mental Health is a leading national mental health charity providing unique support to people with severe and enduring mental ill health.The Community Link Worker service collaborates with selected GP surgeries, supporting adults over the age of 18 through social prescribing. Referrals are received from the GP to our Community Link Workers when there might be a concern caused by social factors, rather than a medical problem. The service focuses on improving health outcomes for people experiencing stressors in their lives due to social problems, which could lead to poor mental health.As a Community Link Worker, you will work directly with people referred to the Community Link Worker Service from their GP Practice who require immediate or on-going emotional, practical or vocational support in order to deliver the best possible health outcomes.Key Responsibilities:Work as part of a team building positive working relationshipsWork closely with colleagues in Primary CareCoordinate and refer service users to resources in the local community and to statutory and non-statutory services as appropriateIn partnership with service users, design, implement, and review outcome focussed development plans to enable service users to achieve their identified goalsEmploy a number of appropriate intervention strategies including positive communication skillsEnsure ongoing risk assessment is integral to my practice to ensure the wellbeing of service usersUtilise group work skills which bring people together in a safe environmentAwareness of appropriate professional boundaries including confidentialityUnderstanding of the requirements of Health and Safety in the workplace and follow Change Mental Health policiesEnsure that careful and ongoing review systems are in place and maintainedEssential Criteria:Educated to SVQ level 2 or have relevant experience working in health and social careAble to plan and prioritise workloadProfessional self-awareness and able to seek support and advice from my line manager appropriately and participate in supervision and support meetings positivelyAble to liaise confidently with statutory and non-statutory agenciesEmpatheticMy personal and professional value base is consistent with the aims and objectives of Change Mental HealthDemonstrate genuine regard for service users and their familiesHave good I.T. skills and can produce accurate case notesI am enthusiastic to develop my knowledge and skillsFull, clean, driving licence and access to a vehicleDesirable Criteria:Experience of working with people affected by mental or physical health issuesExperience of community-development workExperience of working in a SSSC Registered ServiceA learning and development portfolio which evidences my skills and knowledgeWhat we offer37 days’ annual leave (pro rata)Two paid Mental Wellbeing DaysEnhanced sick pay and leave entitlementsProfessional development, including funded opportunities24/7 Employee Assistance ProgrammeCycle to Work SchemeBlue Light Card eligibilitySupport for flexible working and work-life balanceIf you’re passionate about mental health and helping people build the confidence and skills to move towards their goals, we’d love to hear from you.