Case Worker - Mental Health

Location: South West London

Tempest Charities are recruiting for an anti-racist organisation addressing systemic inequalities impacting mental healthand 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