Mental Health & Safeguarding Adviser

## A Rewarding Opportunity in Student Welfare at Aston University

Aston University presents a compelling opportunity for experienced mental health professionals seeking to make a profound impact on student well-being. This role within the dynamic Welfare & Safeguarding service offers a chance to contribute to a holistic support system designed to help students navigate the multifaceted challenges of university life.

Advantages for Candidates:

• Meaningful Impact: This position offers the chance to directly support students facing a wide spectrum of difficulties, from everyday academic pressures to more complex mental health concerns, trauma, and relational issues. Your expertise will be instrumental in fostering student resilience and success.
• Collaborative Environment: You will be joining a vibrant and experienced team within the Student Life Directorate, which includes Disability & Neurodiversity Support, Advice, Engagement, Counselling, and Chaplaincy services. This integrated approach ensures a comprehensive support network for students and fosters interdisciplinary collaboration for staff.
• Professional Development: Aston University is committed to the growth of its staff, offering excellent training and development opportunities. This is an ideal environment for professionals looking to enhance their skills and expertise in a higher education setting.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Beyond a competitive salary, the university provides a generous annual leave scheme (30 days plus 13 bank holidays/closure days), everyday discounts, family-friendly policies, and access to on-site gym and pool facilities. The central Birmingham location also boasts excellent transport links.
• Diverse Student Population: Working at Aston University provides exposure to a diverse student body, offering rich learning experiences and the chance to develop culturally sensitive support strategies.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Experience & Registration: The role requires a registered Mental Health Nurse, Occupational Therapist, Social Worker, or Therapist with a minimum of three years of post-qualification supervised practice and current registration with your relevant professional body.
• In-Person Focus: This is primarily an in-person role on campus, requiring year-round presence. Candidates should be comfortable with this commitment and understand the demands of supporting students directly in a physical setting.
• Proactive Contribution: The position extends beyond one-on-one sessions. Enthusiasm for delivering wellbeing activities and supporting drop-in services is highly valued, indicating a desire for proactive engagement and program development.
• Specialized Expertise: While not strictly essential, candidates with experience in areas such as self-harm and suicidal ideation, gender-based violence, domestic abuse, sexual assault, spiritual and faith-based issues, and cultural sensitivities will be particularly well-suited to complement the existing team's strengths.
• Safeguarding Focus: A satisfactory DBS check is a prerequisite for this role, underscoring the importance of safeguarding in the university's student support services.

This is more than just a job; it's an opportunity to shape the student experience and contribute to a supportive, thriving academic community. If you are a dedicated professional passionate about mental health and student well-being, Aston University offers a fulfilling and dynamic career path.