Mental Health Youth Worker

Overview

As a Mental Health Youth worker, you will work closely with the team manager and volunteers in overseeing the young people accessing the drop-in service – providing psychoeducation, self-help and practical support as needed.

You’ll do this by:

• Creating a welcoming, safe and accessible environment for young people who attend the drop-in.

• Providing opportunities for young people to engage in positive activities that promote mental health and wellbeing.

• Directing young people to sources of advice and support as identified.

• Identifying concerns about young people attending in the drop-in and following these up in line with service policies and procedures.

• Providing a confidential space for young people to receive support when needed.

• Developing and facilitating workshops and emotional wellbeing activities.

Qualifications & Experience Required

• Educated to NVQ Level 3 or above, or equivalent in youth & community work

• Youth worker experience

• Safeguarding young people

Main Responsibilties

• Work face-to-face within the drop-in service and develop positive relationships with young people based on respect and trust, ensuring they have a safe place to attend.
• Provide a listening and understanding ear and engage in meaningful activities with young people to benefit their mental health and wellbeing.
• Engage with line management and peer support to identify and share best ways of working.
• Establish boundaries and address any inappropriate behaviour within the drop-in.
• Recognise signs of distress in young people, dealing with this promptly, appropriately and consistently, signposting and referring on where necessary.
• Support young people to develop independence, resilience, and positive activities, and signposting them for further support when appropriate.
• Understand and meet the needs of young people regarding mental health information and support within the drop-in setting.
• Bring creative thinking, energy, and commitment to the service, to motivate and engage young people.
• Take responsibility for own health and safety and all health and safety issues related to the role and contribute to Health and Safety systems.
• Undertake administrative duties as needed.
• Work within the policies and procedures of Teesside Mind at all times.
• Undertake other tasks commensurate with the position as required including acting as a key holder to open and lock Be Heard community based venues.