Mental Health Adviser

University of Northampton; Northampton; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Northampton is seeking a knowledgeable mental health professional to support the mental health of students. You will provide direct 1‑1 assistance, assess mental health impacts on studies, and foster collaboration with local services. Candidates should demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and relevant qualifications, with flexibility in work arrangements. This position offers a dynamic work environment aimed at promoting student wellbeing.

Benefits

Flexible working hours

Supportive work environment

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience working with adults with mental health difficulties.
• Good understanding of issues impacting student mental health.
• Tact and discretion in dealing with sensitive matters.

Responsibilities

• Deliver direct 1‑1 support for students' mental health.
• Assess the impact of mental health on students' studies.
• Deliver staff training and support mental health promotion.

Skills

Interpersonal communication skills

Ability to work independently

Adaptability

Education

Degree or equivalent

Relevant qualification in Mental Health Nursing, Social Work, or Occupational Therapy

Eligible for Non‑Medical Helper registration

Job description

Overview

The purpose of this post is to deliver services in support of the mental health of our students. This is primarily through direct 1‑1 work with students, assessing and supporting them in managing their mental health, and enabling them to progress with their studies. The post holder will also be expected to assess how students’ mental health is impacting on their studies and be able to consider and recommend reasonable adjustments in partnership with students and in line with the Equality Act 2010.

You may also be required to deliver staff training and support mental health promotion activities and the work of the team.

Knowledge of local mental health services is essential, and an important part of the post is liaison with both external health service providers and internal student services and academics where necessary to enable recovery and progression.

Our services are delivered in person and via video call and telephone. The post holder will be required to work on campus 2 or 3 days a week and remotely 2 or 3 days a week. The 37 hours a week can be worked between 8am and 6pm to accommodate the postholder’s individual circumstances.

We want you to be able to carry out your work in a way that best supports UON and our students, but also you as an individual. We understand this may vary between different areas of the university as well as from one person to another. With Smarter Working you can work with increased flexibility, if you would like to, which can facilitate greater freedom and autonomy.

This post is subject to a background disclosure check by the Disclosure and Barring Service before any appointment can be confirmed.

About you

A knowledgeable and competent mental health professional is required to deliver an effective and high‑quality service within Higher Education.

You must be able to evidence that you have used your professional skills in working with adults with mental health difficulties.

You must have a good understanding of the issues that may impact negatively on student mental health.

We require candidates to be able to demonstrate excellent interpersonal communication skills, and be able to deal with matters of a sensitive and confidential nature with tact and discretion.

We expect team members to be supportive of their colleagues, adaptable and self‑motivated, and able to work independently with minimum supervision.

Essential Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent
• A relevant qualification in Mental Health Nursing, Social Work, Occupational Therapy or be BABCP accredited
• Eligible for Non‑Medical Helper registration to deliver Disabled Students’ Allowances (DSA) funded support under the NMH Provider Quality Assurance Framework. Please refer to pages 8 and 9: nmh‑qualifications‑matrix‑july2023‑updated‑sept‑23.pdf

Department

The post holder will be working within the Library, Learning and Student Services Department. The Mental Health Service is part of the Counselling and Mental Health Team.

About us

At the University of Northampton, we are committed to supporting aspirations, creating opportunities, and delivering meaningful impact. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we foster a progressive, inclusive environment where excellence thrives for our students and staff.

Our staff are our greatest asset. We are dedicated to building an inclusive community that values diversity, promotes wellbeing, and supports personal and professional growth.

We uphold our Values: Inclusivity, Sustainability, Aspiration, Trust, and Togetherness.

Right to work

All candidates will be required to provide proof of their eligibility to work in the UK during the interview process.

Due to the requirements laid out by UK Visas and Immigration regarding Right to Work in the UK, the University can only accept applications from individuals who currently have a status allowing them to work in the UK for this position. We regret that we are unable to offer sponsorship at this time.

Equality

We welcome applications from individuals from under‑represented groups. The University of Northampton is committed to providing a vibrant, ethical, and sustainable environment that values equality, diversity, and inclusion.