Have you thought about joining our new NHS 111 press 2 for Mental Health service?
If you're looking for a job where you can truly make a difference, supporting people in mental health crisis may be the perfect fit for you. It's a challenging role, but it's incredibly rewarding.
Mental health issues can affect anyone, at any time and having a mental health crisis means different things to different people. People might feel so distressed that they want to harm themselves, or someone else. Or they might hear unpleasant voices or feel that people are watching them or trying to hurt them. When someone is having a mental health crisis it can be an extremely worrying time. It can sometimes be overwhelming, and when these challenges feel too much to bear, it can be hard to know where to turn. That is where you come in.
Our new 111 press 2 for Mental Health service will support patients in crisis across south London to be able to access mental health care by calling the NHS 111 number then pressing two. Patients will then be able to talk to an experienced call handler and if needed with their local mental healthcare provider’s Mental Health Crisis Line (in our case 0800 731 2864).
Julie Frake-Harris, who is leading the project said: “I am really proud and excited to be leading the development of this new service. The implementation of this service represents a significant investment in mental health services across South London and will see a massive increase in the number of mental health clinicians who will triage, refer onwards, and offer advice and guidance. If you are passionate about mental health, and have a kind, caring, unflappable nature, we want you to use those skills with us. It is a fantastic opportunity to make a difference to people’s lives and support them during the most difficult times of their lives.”
As an NHS 111 press 2 for Mental Health call handler, you will be the first point of contact for people who are struggling with their mental health. You will provide reassurance and comfort and be a guiding light in a dark moment. You have the power to make a real difference to someone's life.
You will work collaboratively with partner agencies to support patients who need onward support and will be able to refer directly into secondary care services such as local Crisis Resolution and Home Treatment Teams for those who need an urgent assessment. This will ensure there is an easier, smoother way for patients to get support for their mental health.
This is a job where you can truly make a positive impact. It will challenge you and help you grow as a person. You will need to be resilient, to think on your feet and be quick to adapt to changing situations. You will need to be empathetic and patient, able to understand and connect with people who are going through some of the toughest moments of their lives. You will be part of a supportive and encouraging team that is constantly learning and growing, and you will be given opportunities to develop new skills and take on new challenges.
If this sounds like you and you are interested in working with this new service, see our vacancies pages.
