Case Worker - Mental Health

Tempest Charities are recruiting for an anti-racist organisation addressing systemic inequalities impacting mental health and well-being of underprivileged communities. Working across London, Birmingham, Scotland, and Wales, we tackle structural barriers through collaboration with individuals, local communities, statutory agencies, and voluntary organisations. Based in South West London, 1 year Fix Term contract, possible extension. Flexible working available.

About the Role

Support people using the secondary mental health system by providing Generic Mental Health Advocacy and Independent Mental Health Advocacy (IMHA) to eligible individuals, including those detained under the Mental Health Act.

Led by individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges, you'll challenge systemic racism in mental health services and ensure service users' perspectives are recognised in a space where experiences are respected and valued equally.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide culturally informed advocacy and representation regarding care, treatment, and legal status
• Manage a caseload of up to 10 clients with weekly meetings
• Support clients in inpatient services, CMHTs, and community settings
• Develop trusting relationships to help service users express their mental health needs
• Assist service users in preparing for meetings and advocate on their behalf
• Use lived experience and cultural understanding to promote positive self-esteem and recovery
• Provide practical guidance on self-care, resilience strategies, and managing mental health within a race equality framework
• Challenge stigma and discriminatory practices
• Establish regular advocacy 'drop-ins' on wards and in the community
• Signpost service users to culturally relevant community resources and specialist services
• Provide regular verbal and written reports to line manager
• Attend team meetings and supervision sessions
• Raise safeguarding concerns following organisational policies
• Promote the service through distribution of publicity materials
• Work collaboratively in an inclusive and supportive team environment

Experience

• Understanding and/or experience of mental health legislation and the Mental Health journey process
• Lived experience of racism or discrimination in wider society and in mental health services provision
• Experience developing and maintaining relationships with various stakeholders
• Commitment to working in an anti-racist and anti-oppressive way

Knowledge & Skills

• Understanding of assessment of needs
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds
• Emotional resilience and ability to cope with challenging people and environments
• Understanding of The Equality Act 2010
• Ability to work independently and prioritise workload as part of a team
• Commitment to work-based training
• Enhanced DBS check required

Desirable

• Experience in advocacy or healthcare settings
• Knowledge of mental health legislation (MHA 1983/2007, MCA 2017)
• Safeguarding awareness
• Additional language (Portuguese, French)
• Peer Support/Advocacy qualifications