Academic mental health mentor

Main duties

1. To support students to develop learning strategies to assist them in overcoming difficulties associated with mental health. To have an understanding of the impact of and a working knowledge of mental health conditions including bipolar disorder, psychosis, depression, anxiety, phobias and others. This may include coaching in the following areas:
   • Motivation and goal setting
   • Strategies for effective time management, organisational skills and study/exam preparation skills
   • Study-related stress or anxiety management
   • To assist the student to better understand their illness and how to manage symptoms, signs and triggers to assist them with the management of their condition.
   • Help students to develop coping skills and where appropriate support the employment of self- help strategies such as Stress Apps and independent study techniques.
   • Help students to deal with phobias and/or panic attacks
2. Develop an agreed learning plan which is appropriate to the students’ needs and demonstrates the development of techniques and strategies which will help to promote independent learning and progression.
3. Provide within agreed time-frames, progress reports and associated documentation in consultation with the student and the Register of Support Providers.
4. Ensure that electronic timesheets are completed on a regular basis and by key dates as advised by the Register of Support Providers.
5. Maintain confidential records, including an electronic record of all contact with students and take into consideration the safeguarding of these, whilst adhering to the requirements of Data Protection legislation in Northern Ireland.
6. Comply with the University’s equal opportunities policy and promote equal opportunity in all aspects of the role.
7. Comply with the University’s health and safety policies whilst on campus.
8. Maintain up to date knowledge of relevant legislative developments and best practice within the post-16 education sector in relation to support for disabled students.
9. Maintain professional competence, status and memberships of professional bodies.

Qualifications

Essential Criteria

• Degree or equivalent

Desirable Criteria

• Degree or equivalent in Social Work, Occupational Mental Health

Previous Experience

Essential Criteria

• Professional or voluntary experience of working with people with mental health difficulties
• To have an understanding and working knowledge of mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder, psychosis, depression, anxiety, and phobias
• Understanding of the impact of mental health on participation and progress in the higher education environment
• Excellent written and communication skills and ability to relate to students on a one to one basis using exceptional interpersonal skills
• An understanding of the responsibilities associated with maintaining confidentiality and an awareness of the requirements under data protection
• Acute awareness of maintaining personal boundaries
• All successful candidates will be expected to complete an Access NI (enhanced disclosure) check
• Flexibility over working hours

Desirable Criteria

• Experience of working with young adults with mental health difficulties in an educational environment
• Experience and knowledge of local mental health services and external sources of support.
• Experience of supporting students in higher education with the developments of learning strategies and appropriate study techniques