Mental Health Law Practitioner

We are currently recruiting for a Mental Health Law Practitioner to conduct the legal requirements of the Mental Health Act 1983 at Cygnet Elowen Hospital, a secure mental health facility for women offering a range of therapeutic services. You will work full time (40 hours a week, Monday Friday 9 am 5 pm) to help ensure the safe and smooth running of services for the people in our care.

Main duties of the job

Cygnet Hospital Elowen is located in Derbyshire and exemplifies our commitment to excellence in health care. The service offers a safe and secure care pathway tailored for individuals with eating disorders and complex personality disorders with disordered eating. With a dedicated team of specialists and a compassionate approach, the hospital is designed to provide specialist support and treatment, fostering a positive recovery pathway in a nurturing environment.

There are two wards at Cygnet Elowen Hospital. Nova Ward is a highly specialised eating disorder service which will support those with low body mass index (BMI). We focus on supporting individuals to attain a healthy BMI and prepare for a return to home. Additionally we have Alina Ward, a complex personality disorder service for women with a dual diagnosis of co morbid disordered eating. Both aspects can be treated simultaneously, with the appropriate specialist therapeutic input provided.

About us

Cygnet was established in 1988. Since then we have developed a wide range of health and social care services for young people and adults with mental health needs, acquired brain injuries, eating disorders, autism and learning disabilities within the UK.

Job responsibilities

Scrutinising section papers and checking that relevant paperwork is present and correct. Reporting to the MHA Administrator any areas which require amendment. Ensuring that diaries and spreadsheets are updated with listings of hearings. Notifying all parties concerned regarding report deadlines and dates of hearings. Chasing up reports for all Tribunal and Managers hearings. Contacting Hospital Managers and arranging their attendance at hearings. Assisting the Tribunal Clerk when required, ensuring that the room is set up, paperwork available and collecting visitors from reception and liaising with the Tribunal panel in the absence of the Clerk. Data input of Section within the Mental Health Act spreadsheet. Covering MHA Administrator in his/her absence. Completing Mental Health Act Audits using Corporate Template for all wards. Adapting to changes in organising new protocols for Tribunals and Managers Hearing in response to COVID 19. Attending meetings in the absence of the Mental Health Administrator. Liaising with external agencies and the multi disciplinary team within the hospital setting.

Qualifications & skills

• Previous administration experience including report preparation, organising meetings and liaising with customers/clients.
• Good knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Educated to GCSE level (or equivalent) with qualifications in English and Maths.
• Exceptional organisational skills.
• Experience of working in a healthcare environment alongside medical practitioners is desirable.
• Knowledge of the Mental Health Act 1983 (MHA 1983) is desirable.
• Knowledge of compliance and auditing systems required by regulatory bodies (CQC) is desirable.

In return you'll receive a competitive salary and a range of benefits including:

• Full training and induction.
• Regular coaching and support.
• Employee discount scheme.
• Company pension scheme.
• Company paid life assurance scheme.
• Smart Health Toolkit - fitness programmes, nutrition consultation and health checks.
• Health cash plan.
• Subsidised meals on duty.

Please note: Successful candidates will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check.

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Person Specification General Requirements

• Please refer to the job description above.
• Please refer to the job description above.

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.