Jobs in Ardrossan and Arran, North Ayrshire

Around since 1923, SAMH is Scotland’s national mental health charity.

SAMH has represented the voice of people most affected by mental health problems in Scotland for more than 90 years.

Today, in over 60 communities we work with adults and young people providing mental health social care support, services in primary care, schools and further education, among others. These services together with our national programme work in See Me, respectme, suicide prevention and active living; inform our policy and campaign work to influence positive social change.

SAMH is dedicated to mental health and wellbeing for all: with a vision of a society where people are able to live their lives fully, regardless of present or past circumstances.

This exciting opportunity within SAMH is part of a range of new services set up through investment from the Co-op National Charity Partnership. The Partnership brings together Co-op, SAMH, Mind and Inspire to improve the resilience of communities across the UK by supporting people to improve their own and other’s mental health and wellbeing.

The Let’s Talk Children and Young People programme has been developed in direct response to the increasing demand from schools, colleges and youth organisations for specialist support around the mental health of children and young people, and the adults around them. After a successful pilot of the programme as part of the Co-op Partnership’s Explore Phase, the Let’s Talk Children and Young People programme will be expanding into 3 new communities; South Ayrshire, East Dunbartonshire and the Islands of Arran and Bute.

SAMH are looking for 3 Let’s Talk Engagement Officers to work in each of the locations to enable communities have open and positive conversations about mental health, a key factor in building resilient communities. The programme aims to raise awareness, tackle stigma and discrimination, alongside better equipping children and young people with the tools and coping mechanisms to support their own and others’ wellbeing.

The Let’s Talk Engagement Officers will work in partnership with schools, colleges and third sector organisations to develop and deliver a series of interactive workshops, training and wellbeing activities and events.

We are looking for experienced individuals who are passionate about supporting young people to make meaningful improvements to their mental health and wellbeing. You will need to demonstrate experience of working with young people and have an in depth knowledge of mental health and wellbeing. With exceptional communication skills and ability to manage own case load, you’ll need to be flexible to respond to the needs of the service, ensuring your practice is of the highest quality at all times.

Applications are welcome from individuals who have experienced mental health difficulties. A PVG check is required for this post, along with a Right to Work in the UK check. Candidates will also be required to provide proof of qualifications declared on the application form. Due to the locations of the programme, a full drivers licence and access to a vehicle is essential.