Job Summary Table of Mental Health Practitioner

Job Description Summary

The Lead Practitioner role offers an exciting opportunity for an experienced mental health professional to provide clinical and managerial leadership within the University of Sussex’s Wellbeing Services department. You’ll oversee a team of therapists while helping to shape mental health support services that reach over 1800 students annually.

Mental Health Leadership Responsibilities

• Team Management: Provide day-to-day management for a diverse team of therapists, including full-time/part-time staff, locums, trainees, and psychological wellbeing practitioners.
• Clinical Oversight: Oversee caseload allocation and management while supporting staff in resolving and escalating critical cases.
• Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Work closely with other Wellbeing Services leads and collaborate with wider divisional teams including Advice & Guidance, Disability Support, and NHS partners.
• Service Development: Contribute to developing proactive mental health initiatives as part of the wider university mental health strategy.
• Process Improvement: Utilize and enhance case management systems and administrative processes to identify smarter working methods.
• Clinical Practice: Maintain a small clinical caseload (up to 20% of time) if required for professional accreditation.

Required Mental Health Practitioner Qualifications

The ideal candidate will be a qualified and experienced therapist, social worker, or mental health nurse with extensive experience managing other practitioners within an acute mental health or therapeutic setting. You should possess:

• Professional qualification and registration in a relevant mental health discipline
• Demonstrated experience in managing clinical teams
• Strong administrative and technological skills
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to navigate complex situations with sensitivity and professionalism
• Risk-conscious approach with sound judgment and diplomacy
• Experience working under pressure within complex organizational structures

Benefits and Perks of Working at University of Sussex

• Beautiful Campus Environment: Enjoy working on a 150-acre campus adjacent to the stunning South Downs National Park
• Excellent Location: Conveniently located just off the A27 with easy access to Brighton city center
• Transportation Options: 5-minute walk from train station with bus stops within campus and cycling path access
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Take advantage of the university’s cycle to work program
• Research-Led Environment: Be part of a renowned, research-led International University
• Comprehensive Rewards Package: Access the university’s complete benefits program

University of Sussex Overview

The University of Sussex is a renowned, research-led International University situated in Brighton, UK. The university prides itself on providing an exceptional student experience through collaborative work between various schools and divisions. The Student Experience division focuses on Academic Quality, Student Data & Records, Careers & Entrepreneurship, Advice & Guidance, Complaints & Conduct, and Student Wellbeing.

University Culture and Values

The University of Sussex values the diversity of its staff and students and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds. The culture is built around supporting students to have positive, meaningful experiences throughout their university journey. The Wellbeing Services team specifically works to provide comprehensive mental health interventions including psychodynamic therapy, CBT, psychoeducative workshops, and proactive outreach initiatives.

Mental Health Career Growth Opportunities

This leadership position offers significant opportunities for professional development within higher education mental health services. As universities continue to expand their mental health support offerings, experienced leaders in this field are increasingly valued. The role provides a platform to:

• Help shape university mental health strategy
• Develop innovative approaches to student wellbeing
• Build collaborative relationships with NHS and community services
• Enhance your management and leadership skills in a supportive environment
• Contribute to the evolving field of student mental health support

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

The University of Sussex values the diversity of its staff and students and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds. The university is committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive regardless of their background, identity, or circumstances.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Sussex is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.

Remote Work Policy

This position requires in-person presence with core working hours of 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Due to the nature of the role, flexible or part-time working cannot be considered. The university requires that work undertaken for the university is performed from the UK.

Application Process for Mental Health Practitioner Lead

1. Review the full job description and person specification
2. Prepare your application materials highlighting relevant experience
3. Submit your application through the university’s vacancies page
4. If shortlisted, you’ll be invited to interview (dates to be confirmed)

Application Deadline

May 3, 2025 4:29 AM

How to Apply for the Mental Health Lead Position

Interested candidates should review the full job description and person specification before applying. For informal enquiries, contact Amanda Griffiths, Head of Wellbeing Services (a.griffiths@sussex.ac.uk). Applications must be submitted through the university’s vacancies page.

Additional Information about Mental Health Leadership Role

This role may be eligible for sponsorship. Please consult the university’s Skilled Worker Visa information page for further information about Visa Sponsorship. The position is a permanent appointment with a starting date to be confirmed following the selection process.

The University of Sussex offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on student mental health in a supportive, research-focused environment. If you’re passionate about developing effective mental health services in higher education and have the leadership experience to manage a team of practitioners, this role represents an excellent career opportunity.

The successful candidate will join a dedicated team of professionals committed to supporting student wellbeing through evidence-based interventions and innovative approaches. You’ll help shape services that make a tangible difference in students’ lives during their university experience.

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