Point of Entry Practitioner

Job description

Job responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

1. Be the Voice of Compassion:

Answer incoming calls with a compassionate and professional demeanor. Treat each caller with the utmost dignity and respect, creating a welcoming and safe space for those in need.

2. Guiding Wellness through Needs Assessment:

Skillfully assess needs on the phone to ensure individuals receive the immediate care they require.

3. Empowering First Point of Entry:

As the gateway to S&G Mind, complete needs assessments and vital documents, such as safety planning, setting the foundation for holistic support and care.

4. Rapid Response to Urgent Care:

Swiftly identify and respond to situations where urgent care to the caller is required or others, ensuring a prompt and effective resolution.

5. Seamless Transitions to Help:

Master the art of referrals, guiding callers to the most suitable services within S&G Mind or externally. Provide a warm handover to minimise the emotional burden on the caller.

6. Timely Voicemail Care:

Respond to voicemails promptly, ensuring that no one is left without the support they need, even during busy periods.

7. Nurturing Continuity of Care:

Initiate follow-up calls when appropriate and establish connections with professionals involved in the caller's care, offering seamless support and collaboration.

8. Lifesaving Skills in Action:

Receive training in Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) and Suicide First Aid, applying these essential skills to assist individuals in crisis.

9. Community Wellness Advocate:

Promote the telephone line service to the local community and partner organisations, expanding the reach of vital support.

10. Collaborative Excellence:

Work closely with colleagues to ensure efficient internal systems, maintain records, and uphold GDPR compliance, contributing to the organisation's seamless operations.

11. Compliance and Quality Assurance:

Execute all tasks in alignment with S&G Mind's policies and procedures, staying up to date with current legislation and quality standards.

12. Continuous Learning and Contribution:

Actively participate in internal and external Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) meetings, seek supervision, engage in appraisal processes, and commit to ongoing training and development, ensuring your personal and professional growth.

The following are applicable to all employees and posts:

1. Guardian of Confidentiality:

Safeguard the privacy and trust of individuals by maintaining meticulous, accurate records and adhering to data protection procedures.

2. Collaborative Data Excellence:

Work harmoniously with colleagues to ensure that our internal systems run smoothly, from record-keeping to GDPR compliance, enabling us to operate seamlessly and securely.

3. Data Mastery and Reporting:

Fulfil general administrative duties, skillfully collecting, monitoring, and reporting data outcomes. Ensure our ICT systems and data recording practices align with the organisation's policies and procedures.

4. Safe and Sound:

Ensure strict compliance with legal and health and safety regulations, guaranteeing the well-being of our team and the people we serve, in accordance with our health and safety policy.

5. Championing Our Cause:

Establish connections with relevant statutory and third-sector organisations, extending our reach and promoting our services to high-risk groups. Be a vital link in building relationships and expanding our service offering.

6. Be the Voice of Policy and Procedure

Stay up to date with legislation, national and local policies, and ensure that your work aligns with the organisation's policies and procedures, current legislation, and quality standards.

7. Lifelong Learning and Positive Culture:

Contribute to a team that thrives on positivity, dynamism, and a can-do attitude, making our organisation a remarkable place to grow and contribute.

8. Effective Communication and Awareness:

Attend and actively participate in regular team meetings, ensuring that our collective communication is strong, and awareness of our progress and development is maintained.

9. Continuous Professional Growth:

Be proactive in your professional development. Attend and engage in staff meetings, supervision, appraisal sessions, and training opportunities as agreed upon with your line manager.

10. Collaborative Leadership:

Work closely with the Management and Senior Leadership Team (SLT) to steer our organisation toward success.

11. Advocate for Wellbeing:

Promote the 5 Ways to Wellbeing Model as an integral part of our support offer, contributing to the holistic well-being of those we serve.

12. Expert Risk Assessment:

Utilise the UK Mental Health Triage Scale (UK MHTS) for thorough risk assessments, ensuring that we provide the best support and care to individuals in need.

Join our team and become an essential part of our mission, contributing to the well-being of our community while enjoying a supportive, dynamic, and growth-focused environment. Your work will make a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.

Training and Support

1. Investing in Your Future:

We believe that your growth is our growth. Our commitment to training and development is an essential investment in your future and our organisations success. Well-planned and expertly delivered training enhances efficiency and effectiveness, benefiting both you and the services we provide.

2. Generous Annual Leave:

Enjoy a healthy work-life balance with 25 days of annual leave, plus an additional 8 days of bank holiday entitlement (pro rata for part-time staff). Your time to rest and recharge is important to us.

3. Embracing Flexibility:

We understand that one size doesn't fit all. We offer flexible working arrangements, which may involve a mix of office-based, community outreach, remote work, and adjustable shifts as needed. Your preferences matter.

4. Personalised Support and Growth:

Benefit from personalised group and individual supervision, including regular debrief meetings with your line manager. Our flexible approach ensures you have the support you need to thrive in your role, with online or alternating venue options between Swindon and Gloucestershire.

5. Comprehensive Induction:

You'll receive a comprehensive induction tailored to your job role and working environment. This includes a specific training program that aligns with your role and service area, ensuring a smooth and informed transition into your new position.

6. Lifelong Learning and Accreditation:

We're dedicated to your professional development. You'll have access to ongoing learning opportunities, including accredited Continuous Professional Development (CPD) training and recognised mental health courses. Your skills will continue to grow throughout your career with us.

7. Secure your Future:

Plan for a secure future with our portable pension scheme provided by Aviva. We're committed to helping you build financial stability and peace of mind.

8. Make a Meaningful Impact:

Join us and make a real difference in your local community. Collaborate closely with our external partners to shape our organisation, contribute to our policies, strategies, and future development. Your work will directly impact those who are struggling with their mental health and well-being.

Person Specification

Experience

Essential

• Skills and Abilities-
• Demonstrated understanding of a range of skills and interventions related to wellbeing and recovery practices, including counselling and community signposting.
• Willingness to support people with diverse needs in achieving their recovery goals.
• In-depth understanding of the issues and concerns of individuals with mental health needs.
• Strong knowledge and commitment to the rights of individuals accessing services.
• Understanding of the impact of stigma and discrimination.
• Knowledge of local safeguarding policies.
• A strong grasp of the concept of confidentiality.
• Eagerness to participate in team activities that foster collaboration.
• Appreciation of equal opportunities and diversity issues.
• Effective stress management and the ability to plan and prioritise workload.
• Proficiency in IT skills, including Microsoft Office and electronic record keeping systems.
• Knowledge-
• Demonstrable knowledge and experience of working with people with mental health problems.
• A deep understanding of recovery principles and the role of mental health services in care delivery.
• Strong listening skills and effective verbal communication abilities for engaging with various stakeholders.
• Positive Attitudes-
• A strong commitment to working within a framework that promotes diversity, equality, and opportunities for all.
• Dedication to involving people accessing services in decision-making processes, ensuring their active participation in service design and delivery.
• General-
• A flexible approach to work.

Qualifications

Essential

• Passionate Service Advocate-
• We are seeking individuals who are passionate about delivering quality services and are dedicated to continuously adapting to meet the evolving challenges and changes in the field.
• Valuable Experience-
• Relevant experience of working in any health, social care, or any related voluntary organisation setting.
• Experience and knowledge of working within mental health, supporting individuals experiencing mental health problems.
• Experience of working with complex needs.
• Experience of providing telephone support.
• Experience of working with people with learning disabilities and autism.

Desirable

• Knowledge-
• Willingness to embrace new technology and processes.
• Well-developed written communication skills, including report writing and record-keeping.
• Education/Qualifications-
• Training in an allied field such as counselling, mediation, advocacy, or social work.
• General-
• Ability to travel to venues across Swindon and Gloucestershire.
• Join our team and be a part of an organisation that values your commitment to delivering quality services, encourages adaptability, and fosters a positive, inclusive work culture. Your dedication to these values will contribute significantly to our mission of supporting those in need.

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Employer details

Employer name

Swindon & Gloucestershire Mind

Address

Swindon & Gloucestershire Mind

Sanford House

Swindon

Wiltshire

SN1 1HE

Employer's website

https://www.sgmind.org.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)