Community Engagement Officer: The Nook from SAMH

Scottish Action for Mental Health; Scotland; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH) is seeking a Community Engagement Officer to enhance community development and mental health advocacy through outreach activities. The ideal candidate will build relationships, manage volunteers, and respond to local mental health needs while working in a dynamic team environment. This rewarding role involves contributing to mental health initiatives and ensuring services are accessible and responsive to the Scottish community.

Benefits

Generous annual leave, 30 days rising by three days after five years

Competitive occupational sick pay scheme

Access to 6 free counselling sessions per year

Funded continuous learning and access to over 150 online courses

Pension and retirement information and support

Qualifications

• Experience supporting people with mental health challenges.
• Strong background in community engagement.
• Skilled in delivering therapeutic approaches or psychological interventions.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain strong relationships with local organisations and community groups.
• Recruit, train, and support volunteers.
• Represent The Nook at community events and outreach activities.

Skills

Relationship Building

Community Engagement

Interpersonal Skills

Communication

Knowledge of Mental Health

Education

Professional Development Award in Leadership or Volunteering Management

Job description

• 37.5 per week (including evenings and weekends). Permanent

Role

Founded in 1923, we’ve been working to improve Scotland’s mental health for more than 100 years. From nationalservices, like our confidential Infoline and online wellbeing support Time for You, to our 70 services based incommunities across Scotland, we work every day to support better mental health and wellbeing.

We are a service provider and a campaigner. We’re proud of this.

We listen to what matters locally, and we campaign nationally – for the changes, big and small, that can make all thedifference in life. Because now, more than ever, we need to make change happen. We take action for Scotland’smental health.

It is an exciting time to be joining SAMH as we launched our new four-year plan ‘Taking Action, Creating Change’. Ournew plan, prioritising the needs of people, places and communities, reflects the urgent need for progress, as weknow that mental health challenges are at an all-time high in Scotland.

For that reason, we launched our first ever major appeal. We are aiming to raise £10 million over the next threeyears to transform access to mental health support within communities across Scotland, putting our belief intoaction, that everyone with a mental health problem should be able to “ask once and get help fast”. Thisambitious and bold solution will see SAMH opening a network of walk-in mental health hubs and outreachprogrammes across Scotland. The Nook from SAMH - Your Place for Mental Health Support. The Nook

The Nook will deliver mental health and wellbeing support that offer choice and flexibility in a safe, stigma-freeand non-clinical environment. By eliminating barriers and championing self-referral, we will offer immediateaccess to tailored support, seven days a week, through our skilled and compassionate workforce. We will meet thediverse needs of people locally, whether reaching out for help for the first time or managing ongoing mentalhealth problems.

What we are looking for

As the Community Engagement Officer, you’ll be the bridge between The Nook and the wider community. We are lookingfor a confident relationship builder who is comfortable working autonomously across the city. You will leadoutreach activities, volunteer management and partnership development to ensure The Nook is visible, accessible,and responsive to local needs. This is a dynamic, people-focused role ideal for someone passionate aboutcommunity development and mental health advocacy.

Here’s some examples of the type of work you’ll be doing

• Build and maintain strong relationships with local organisations, stakeholders, and communitygroups.
• Recruit, train, and support volunteers to deliver events, workshops, and dailyservices.
• Represent The Nook at community events, forums, and outreach activities.
• Deliverbespoke training and workshops in community settings.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of local resourcesand signpost individuals appropriately.
• Support visitors to The Nook and respond to publicenquiries.
• Ensure accurate reporting, safeguarding, and compliance with SAMH standards.

We need you to have these skills and experience

• Experience supporting people with mental health challenges.
• Strong background in communityengagement.
• Skilled indelivering therapeutic approaches or psychological interventions.
• Strong interpersonal and communicationskills.
• Knowledge of mental health, suicide prevention, and wellbeing.
• Ability to work andrespond effectively in a dynamic, team environment.

It would be great if you had any of these, but not essential for you to apply

• A Professional Development Award in Leadership or Volunteering Management (or equivalent).
• Experience indata reporting, monitoring, and evaluation.
• Knowledge of national mental health policy andstrategy.

Relevant for you to know before applying.

• Shift patterns will be in rotation that will include evenings and weekends.
• You will be based in Glasgowcity centre but will also travel and work in local communities.
• We anticipate the Nook team’s start dateto be early September 2025.

What we will provide for you

You will work in a supportive environment and provided with comprehensive induction and training opportunities. Youwill be given the chance to develop your knowledge and skills, as well as develop professionally.

Some of our benefits include.

• Generous annual leave, 30 days rising by three days after five years.* plus an additional four publicholidays
• Competitive occupational sick pay scheme.
• 2 paid wellbeing days eachyear*
• Length of Service Awards
• Family friendly leave options
• Opportunity to sign up for a Blue Light Card
• Enhanced Maternity Pay (qualifying length ofservice applies)
• Support from our Occupational Health provider
• Life assurance 1.5 timessalary
• Access to 6 free counselling sessions per year and our Employee AssistanceProgramme
• Reimbursement of PVG, Disclosure & SSSC fees (if applicable)
• Funded continuouslearning including access to over 150 online courses & SVQ qualifications for registeredroles
• Pension and retirement information and support
• Team Wellbeing Allowance •

Application notes

Closing date will be Wednesday 16th July 2025 at 12:00 (noon)*

PVG Scheme Membership, Right to Work in the UK and proof of any qualifications declared in your application will berequired.

Applications are welcome from people who have experienced mental health difficulties.

*We reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than advertised so would encourage you to apply early

Are you ready to play a key role in helping people turn a house into a home? Join Castle as our Home Coordinator andsupport individuals and families across Fife with essential household support during times of financialhardship.

We are looking for someone with a passion for community based work, with strong coordination skills, compassion, andthe ability to build partnerships that deliver real impact.

You will manage referrals for household support, including sourcing essential items and linking people into widerservices that help sustain tenancies and improve wellbeing. You will work closely within communities, voluntaryand public sector partners, and actively participate in local poverty action groups to ensure a holisticcommunity led approach.

• A frontline role that supports people in practical and meaningful ways
• Flexible working and a supportive, purpose driven team
• Be part of the wider effort to tackle poverty and housing inequality in Fife

This process is supported by our external recruitment partners LHH Talent Solutions.

Founded in 1923, we’ve been working to improve Scotland’s mental health for more than 100 years. From nationalservices, like our confidential Infoline and online wellbeing support Time for You, to our 70 services based incommunities across Scotland, we work every day to support better mental health and wellbeing.

We are a service provider and a campaigner. We’re proud of this.

We listen to what matters locally, and we campaign nationally – for the changes, big and small, that can make all thedifference in life. Because now, more than ever, we need to make change happen. We take action for Scotland’smental health.

It is an exciting time to be joining SAMH as we launched our new four-year plan ‘Taking Action, Creating Change’. Ournew plan, prioritising the needs of people, places and communities, reflects the urgent need for progress, as weknow that mental health challenges are at an all-time high in Scotland.

For that reason, we launched our first ever major appeal. We are aiming to raise £10 million over the next threeyears to transform access to mental health support within communities across Scotland, putting our belief intoaction, that everyone with a mental health problem should be able to “ask once and get help fast”. Thisambitious and bold solution will see SAMH opening a network of walk-in mental health hubs and outreachprogrammes across Scotland. The Nook from SAMH - Your Place for Mental Health Support. The Nook

The Nook will deliver mental health and wellbeing support that offer choice and flexibility in a safe, stigma-freeand non-clinical environment. By eliminating barriers and championing self-referral, we will offer immediateaccess to tailored support, seven days a week, through our skilled and compassionate workforce. We will meet thediverse needs of people locally, whether reaching out for help for the first time or managing ongoing mentalhealth problems.

What we are looking for

As a Mental Health & Wellbeing Practitioner, you’ll be at the heart of The Nook’s vision. You’ll providenon-clinical, practical, and emotional support to individuals and groups, helping them build resilience anddevelop effective coping strategies. This is a brand-new team of nine practitioners each with a core skill setand individuals specialisms.

No two days will be the same, but here’s some examples of the type of work you’ll be doing

• Provide a warm, inclusive welcome to everyone who visits the Nook.
• Deliver non-clinical therapeuticactivities and other SAMH offers in individual and group settings.
• Support one of our priority groups toensure they can access tailored, relevant support.
• Support community outreach events and pop-upactivities.
• Signpost and connect individuals to local resources and external partners.
• Maintainaccurate records and uphold safeguarding standards.
• Mentor and support volunteers.

We need you to have these skills

• Experience supporting people with mental health challenges.
• Skilled in delivering therapeutic approachesor psychological interventions.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Knowledge ofmental health, suicide prevention, and wellbeing.
• Ability to work and respond effectively in a dynamic,changeable team environment.

It would be great if you had these skills, but not essential for you to apply

• Supporting young people or their caregivers with mental health challenges.
• Working in a communityengagement setting.
• Supporting people with mental health from groups who may face additional barriers.This could include those with neurodevelopmental conditions, addiction or substance use, minority ethnic groups,and older adults.

What we will provide for you

You will work in a supportive environment and provided with comprehensive induction and training opportunities. Youwill be given the chance to develop your knowledge and skills, as well as develop professionally.

Some of our benefits include.

• Generous annual leave, 30 days rising by three days after five years.* plus an additional four publicholidays
• Competitive occupational sick pay scheme.
• 2 paid wellbeing days eachyear*
• Length of Service Awards
• Family friendly leave options
• Opportunity to sign up for a Blue Light Card
• Enhanced Maternity Pay (qualifying length ofservice applies)
• Support from our Occupational Health provider
• Life assurance 1.5 timessalary
• Access to 6 free counselling sessions per year and our Employee AssistanceProgramme
• Reimbursement of PVG, Disclosure & SSSC fees (if applicable)
• Funded continuouslearning including access to over 150 online courses & SVQ qualifications for registeredroles
• Pension and retirement information and support

Join Epilepsy Scotland as Head of Services and lead the delivery of impactful support that improves lives acrossScotland.

About Epilepsy Scotland

Epilepsy Scotland works to ensure that the estimated 80,000 people living with epilepsy in Scotland have their voicesheard, their rights respected, and their needs met. The charity has been a national leader in epilepsy supportfor over seven decades, combining front-line services with policy influence, education, andawareness-raising.

As an organisation, Epilepsy Scotland is deeply committed to tackling stigma, challenging inequalities, and offeringperson-centred services that empower people to manage their condition and live life to the fullest. Theirservices range from one-to-one emotional and practical support to community-based youth engagement and anational helpline offering information and guidance.

Responsibilities of the Head of Services

As Head of Services, you will play a key role in the leadership and delivery of Epilepsy Scotland’s strategic vision.Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, you will oversee the organisation’s front-line services, ensuringthey are responsive, evidence-based, and aligned with the changing needs of people living with epilepsy acrossScotland.

This role calls for a confident leader who is equally comfortable working at a strategic level and managing thedetail of day-to-day operations. The services currently offered include Emotional Wellbeing for Adults, aWelfare Rights Service, Youth Work Service and a National Helpline.

Key Responsibilities:

• Service Leadership: Provide strategic and operational leadership across Epilepsy Scotland’s services, fosteringa culture of empathy, excellence, and innovation.
• Team Management: Line manage a geographicallydispersed team including the Services Team Manager, Welfare Rights Officer, and Helpline Officers, offeringsupervision, support, and professional development.
• Service Development: Identify opportunities toimprove and expand services in line with the charity’s strategy, funding opportunities, and the evolving needsof service users.
• Monitoring & Evaluation: Oversee the implementation of project plans andevaluation frameworks that track outcomes, ensure quality, and support funding compliance.
• PartnershipWorking: Build and sustain collaborative relationships with statutory and voluntary sector partners to enhanceservice delivery and reach.
• Safeguarding & Risk Management: Lead on safeguarding across allservices, ensuring staff are trained, policies are up to date, and all activities are risk assessedappropriately.
• Budgeting & Reporting: Prepare service budgets, manage expenditure, and contribute tofunding bids and reports for funders, trustees, and external stakeholders.
• Organisational Contribution:Work closely with the CEO and other senior colleagues to contribute to strategic planning, organisationaldevelopment, and advocacy priorities.

What does Epilepsy Scotland need from you?

If you are a dynamic and experienced professional with a passion for delivering inclusive, life-enhancing services,this could be the role for you. You may have a background in health, social care, youth work, or another area ofcommunity support — but most importantly, you are someone who leads with compassion and integrity.

You will bring a well-rounded set of leadership, operational, and interpersonal skills, and you’ll thrive in acollaborative environment where you can balance strategic thinking with hands-on delivery.

Experience and Skills:

• A minimum of three years’ experience in managing multi-disciplinary teams, preferably in the voluntary, health,or social care sector.
• A proven ability to lead service design and delivery, manage budgets, and reporton outcomes.
• Experience working in partnerships and with external stakeholders, includingfunders.
• Excellent communication and report-writing skills, with the ability to tailor messaging todifferent audiences.
• A deep understanding of safeguarding principles, health inequalities, and thesocial model of health.
• A reflective, emotionally intelligent approach to leadership and teamdevelopment.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in all areas of work.
• You may alsobring lived experience of epilepsy or another long-term health condition, and/or knowledge of the uniquechallenges faced by those managing such conditions.

Be part of a trusted national charity that supports, empowers, and advocates for people living with epilepsy.

We are seeking volunteers to join our Board of Trustees. Specifically, we are looking for volunteers to fulfil therole of Chair of the Board and also Treasurer. It’s an exciting time to join our Board as we continue to developour strategy and target growth in all aspects of our work.

If you are passionate about making a difference in peoples’ lives and want to volunteer your skills and experience,we want to hear from you. This is an opportunity to volunteer for a charity that provides high-qualitypsychodynamic training and services, aiming to make psychodynamic counselling and therapy, and the theories thatinform them, more accessible across Scotland.

Working closely with the Director and fellow Trustees, the Chair will utilise their skills and experience to lead theBoard on matters of governance, ensuring that all activities align with HDS’s charitable aims, publicly statedobjectives values and constitution, and that there is appropriate risk management in place (financial andother).

The ideal candidate will have a substantive employment background in one or more of the following areas:

• Psychotherapy and/or counselling
• Financial management and accounting
• Businessmanagement
• Governance
• Management within the public or charity sector

Treasurer

The ideal candidate will have substantive employment background in financial management and accounting to fulfil therole of Treasurer of the Board. The postholder will work closely with our Director and provide financialoversight to the management and administration of HDS activities.

In addition to the above, we are looking for someone who has substantive experience in one or more of:

• Business management
• Governance
• Management within the public or charity sector

Role of all Trustees

Our volunteer Trustees contribute significantly to our overall charitable objectives and we value their knowledge andexperience. Trustees dedicate time to attend Board meetings (usually six meetings per year). While an in-depthunderstanding of the theories informing the psychotherapeutic training or work of the organisation is notrequired, our Trustees should have a grounded belief in the value of high-quality psychotherapy and counsellingin effecting change in people's lives.

About HDS

Human Development Scotland (HDS) is a charity that provides high-quality psychodynamic training and therapeuticservices, aiming to make psychodynamic counselling and therapy, and the theories that inform them, moreaccessible across Scotland. Our office is based in Glasgow city centre which includes a Training Suite for ourpart-time students to receive their teaching, and counselling rooms where some of our therapeutic servicesoperate from.