Mindmate Single Point of Access Neurodevelopmental Triage Worker

Northpoint Wellbeing Ltd

Information:

This job is now closed

Job summary

This is an exciting opportunity for enthusiastic and experienced practitioners to work collaboratively in a committed and forward-thinking organisation and make a tangible difference to the lives of young people and families in Leeds.

MindMate Single Point of Access (MMSPA) is managed by Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust, and receives referrals for school age children and young people who need support with their emotional wellbeing or mental health.

Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust have now commissioned Northpoint to recruit a number of practitioners to work as part of the multi-disciplinary team within the MindMate SPA. The roles will be line-managed by Northpoint Wellbeing’s Schools Services management team, and the postholder’s will receive day to day direction from the MindMate SPA team manager.

The team comprises administrative staff and clinicians who work in partnership with a range of professionals and organisations across Leeds to ensure that all children and young people who are being referred for support can get access to the right service, first time. This innovative service allows families and young people across Leeds to get better, faster access to the care they need.

Main duties of the job

A high percentage of referrals received into MMSPA request neurodevelopmental assessments for autism and ADHD. Where appropriate, these referrals undergo a ‘screening’ process in order to determine clinical suitability for a neurodevelopmental assessment. This process gives young people, parents/carers, and school staff the opportunity to ‘have a voice’ and contribute to the decision by giving their views on the young person’s needs and presenting difficulties. The postholder will contribute to this process.

There are 5 main aspects to the role:

  • Gathering information on the strengths, wishes, and mental health needs of children, young people & families who are referred to Mindmate SPA.

  • Helping to establish the most appropriate outcome for individual referrals.

  • Providing signposting advice and guidance.

  • Working within standard operating procedures and pathways to support the triage of neurodevelopmental referrals to help determine whether a young person meets the criteria for an autism/ADHD assessment.

  • Offering telephone consultation and advice to families and professionals.

About us

Northpoint is a charity with a track-record of providing accessible therapeutic services to local communities. Northpoint Wellbeing has provided school-based counselling since 2009, and now works with children, young people and families by providing a school therapy service in 17 Leeds clusters of schools across the city as part of the Leeds Mindmate Wellbeing Contract. We are also providing therapeutic support to schools in York Doncaster & Harrogate.

Please note interviews will be held via Zoom on Monday 7th February.

Date posted

11 January 2022

Pay scheme

Agenda for change

Band

Band 4

Salary

£22,549 to £24,882 a year Agenda for Change band 4

Contract

Fixed term

Duration

12 months

Working pattern

Full-time, Job share

Reference number

B0173-22-6797

Job locations

Hunslet Road

Leeds

LS10 1JN


Job description

Job responsibilities

Service Overview: Northpoint is a charity with a track-record of providing accessible therapeutic services to local communities. Northpoint Wellbeing has provided school-based counselling since 2009, and now works with children, young people and families by providing a school therapy service in 17 Leeds clusters of schools across the city as part of the Leeds Mindmate Wellbeing Contract. We are also providing therapeutic support to schools in York Doncaster & Harrogate.

MindMate Single Point of Access (MMSPA) is managed by Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust, and receives referrals for school age children and young people who need support with their emotional wellbeing or mental health. The team comprises administrative staff and clinicians who work in partnership with a range of professionals and organisations across Leeds to ensure that all children and young people who are being referred for support can get access to the right service, first time. This innovative service allows families and young people across Leeds to get better, faster access to the care they need.

Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust have now commissioned Northpoint to recruit a number of practitioners to work as part of the multi-disciplinary team within the MindMate SPA. The roles will be line-managed by Northpoint Wellbeing’s schools services management team, and the postholder’s will receive day to day direction from the MindMate SPA team manager.

Job Purpose: This is an exciting opportunity for enthusiastic and experienced practitioners to work collaboratively in a committed and forward-thinking organisation and make a tangible difference to the lives of young people and families in Leeds.

A high percentage of referrals received into MMSPA request neurodevelopmental assessments for autism and ADHD. Where appropriate, these referrals undergo a ‘screening’ process in order to determine clinical suitability for a neurodevelopmental assessment. This process gives young people, parents/carers, and school staff the opportunity to ‘have a voice’ and contribute to the decision by giving their views on the young person’s needs and presenting difficulties. The postholder will contribute to this process.

The postholder will act as the front-line of the service supporting the triage of neurodevelopmental referrals into MMSPA by taking calls, talking to families and discussing the options of available support, providing referral information to professionals, and working within the multi-disciplinary team. 

The post holder will work within standard operating procedures / pathways to manage their own workload independently but with reference to a supervisor within the clinical area. The post holder will work within a range of standard operating procedures and pathways in which they have received training in order to be competent.

There are 5 main aspects to the role:

  • Gathering information on the strengths, wishes, and mental health needs of children, young people & families who are referred to Mindmate SPA.

  • Helping to establish the most appropriate outcome for individual referrals.

  • Providing signposting advice and guidance.

  • Working within standard operating procedures and pathways to support the triage of neurodevelopmental referrals to help determine whether a young person meets the criteria for an autism/ADHD assessment.

  • Offering telephone consultation and advice to families and professionals.

Full Duties:

  • The post holder will demonstrate a theoretical and practical knowledge of neurodevelopmental conditions and presentations – involving an understanding of theories and principles

  • Prioritise their own workload, and that of the wider team, within agreed objectives deciding when to refer to others as appropriate.

  • The post holder will be able to make judgement involving facts or situation which may require analysis e.g. making clinical decisions related to specific pathway of care.

  • Able to identify risk or changes in condition and is responsible for taking action; advises supervising professional and accurately record all interventions

  • Liaison and information gathering from schools and other professionals to support the triage of neurodevelopmental referral

  • Act as a first point of contact for neurodevelopmental queries from professionals and families, responding to these in a clinically appropriate and professional manner, escalating to senior members of the team where required

  • Provides and receives routine or sometimes complex information using persuasion, reassurance, tact and empathy and addressing barriers to understanding in order to engage the individual in their care and gain valid consent for care; record discussions in an accurate and timely manner in the individual’s patient record

  • Approaches each individual with care, compassion and sensitivity ensuring that these values are reflected in all aspects of their role

  • Engages and actively involves the individual and, if appropriate, their family/carer, in the triage of their referral by using person-centred techniques to promote a culture of self care, involvement and empowerment

  • Communicate referral decisions in a clear, accessible and helpful manner by phone and/or in writing.

  • Manages own workload independently to carry out identified tasks within the neurodevelopmental triage process to help determine the suitability of an autism or ADHD assessment.

  • Keep clear records of information gathered, next steps, and decisions made.

  • Build a strong understanding of available services in the Leeds area.

  • Develop a good knowledge base of on-line resources, apps, and websites.

  • Act as an advocate for patients and their families/carer, recognising the boundaries of their clinical knowledge; liaising and referring on to other agencies as required

  • Record patient related information onto an electronic patient management system (Mosaic) in a timely and accurate fashion in line with information governance protocols.

Other responsibilities:

  • Build and maintain effective working relationships with partners and stakeholders.

  • Contribute to relevant forums, panels and assessment meetings and processes.

  • Manage time pressures effectively, and meet objectives in the face of competing priorities, challenging timescales, and diversions.

General:

  • All employees must be familiar with and adhere to Northpoint’s operational policies, service protocols, and practice guidelines as required, taking account of any relevant partner protocols and procedures.

  • All employees have a responsibility and a legal obligation to ensure that information processed for both patients and staff is kept accurate, confidential, secure and in line with the Data Protection Act (2018) and Security and Confidentiality Policies

  • All employees have a duty and responsibility for their own health and safety and the health of safety of colleagues, patients and the general public.

  • All employees will undertake statutory and mandatory training as deemed appropriate and have a willingness and commitment to professional development.

  • Northpoint Wellbeing is committed to ensuring that no job applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital status, gender reassignment or pregnancy/maternity. We fully support the right of all staff to equal opportunities and are committed to the development of a diverse workforce. All employees are expected to be familiar with and adhere to Northpoint’s Equal Opportunities Policy

  • All employees will adhere to Northpoint Wellbeing safeguarding procedures.

  • Contribute to annual appraisal process by working with line manager to identify areas for development and set appropriate objectives

  • Attend and engage with reflective practice and clinical supervision

  • It is the responsibility of all staff that they do not abuse their professional position for personal gain, to seek advantage of further private business, or for other interests, in the course of their official duties.

Support:

  • Line management and clinical/reflective supervision will be provided by Northpoint

  • Peer support from staff within Northpoint and with colleagues from other agencies is facilitated and encouraged.

  • Northpoint places a strong emphasis on the development, wellbeing, training, and support of all staff (including non-clinical staff)

  • All staff receive an annual review/appraisal which will include support to access relevant CPD (continuing professional development) training.

  • Travel expenses will be provided at the standard Northpoint rate.

  • Additional expenses will be claimed through Northpoint as agreed.

  • Mobile smartphone and access to IT systems will be provided.

This job description does not provide an exhaustive list of duties and may be reviewed in conjunction with the post holder in light of service development.

Job description

Job responsibilities

Service Overview: Northpoint is a charity with a track-record of providing accessible therapeutic services to local communities. Northpoint Wellbeing has provided school-based counselling since 2009, and now works with children, young people and families by providing a school therapy service in 17 Leeds clusters of schools across the city as part of the Leeds Mindmate Wellbeing Contract. We are also providing therapeutic support to schools in York Doncaster & Harrogate.

MindMate Single Point of Access (MMSPA) is managed by Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust, and receives referrals for school age children and young people who need support with their emotional wellbeing or mental health. The team comprises administrative staff and clinicians who work in partnership with a range of professionals and organisations across Leeds to ensure that all children and young people who are being referred for support can get access to the right service, first time. This innovative service allows families and young people across Leeds to get better, faster access to the care they need.

Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust have now commissioned Northpoint to recruit a number of practitioners to work as part of the multi-disciplinary team within the MindMate SPA. The roles will be line-managed by Northpoint Wellbeing’s schools services management team, and the postholder’s will receive day to day direction from the MindMate SPA team manager.

Job Purpose: This is an exciting opportunity for enthusiastic and experienced practitioners to work collaboratively in a committed and forward-thinking organisation and make a tangible difference to the lives of young people and families in Leeds.

A high percentage of referrals received into MMSPA request neurodevelopmental assessments for autism and ADHD. Where appropriate, these referrals undergo a ‘screening’ process in order to determine clinical suitability for a neurodevelopmental assessment. This process gives young people, parents/carers, and school staff the opportunity to ‘have a voice’ and contribute to the decision by giving their views on the young person’s needs and presenting difficulties. The postholder will contribute to this process.

The postholder will act as the front-line of the service supporting the triage of neurodevelopmental referrals into MMSPA by taking calls, talking to families and discussing the options of available support, providing referral information to professionals, and working within the multi-disciplinary team. 

The post holder will work within standard operating procedures / pathways to manage their own workload independently but with reference to a supervisor within the clinical area. The post holder will work within a range of standard operating procedures and pathways in which they have received training in order to be competent.

There are 5 main aspects to the role:

  • Gathering information on the strengths, wishes, and mental health needs of children, young people & families who are referred to Mindmate SPA.

  • Helping to establish the most appropriate outcome for individual referrals.

  • Providing signposting advice and guidance.

  • Working within standard operating procedures and pathways to support the triage of neurodevelopmental referrals to help determine whether a young person meets the criteria for an autism/ADHD assessment.

  • Offering telephone consultation and advice to families and professionals.

Full Duties:

  • The post holder will demonstrate a theoretical and practical knowledge of neurodevelopmental conditions and presentations – involving an understanding of theories and principles

  • Prioritise their own workload, and that of the wider team, within agreed objectives deciding when to refer to others as appropriate.

  • The post holder will be able to make judgement involving facts or situation which may require analysis e.g. making clinical decisions related to specific pathway of care.

  • Able to identify risk or changes in condition and is responsible for taking action; advises supervising professional and accurately record all interventions

  • Liaison and information gathering from schools and other professionals to support the triage of neurodevelopmental referral

  • Act as a first point of contact for neurodevelopmental queries from professionals and families, responding to these in a clinically appropriate and professional manner, escalating to senior members of the team where required

  • Provides and receives routine or sometimes complex information using persuasion, reassurance, tact and empathy and addressing barriers to understanding in order to engage the individual in their care and gain valid consent for care; record discussions in an accurate and timely manner in the individual’s patient record

  • Approaches each individual with care, compassion and sensitivity ensuring that these values are reflected in all aspects of their role

  • Engages and actively involves the individual and, if appropriate, their family/carer, in the triage of their referral by using person-centred techniques to promote a culture of self care, involvement and empowerment

  • Communicate referral decisions in a clear, accessible and helpful manner by phone and/or in writing.

  • Manages own workload independently to carry out identified tasks within the neurodevelopmental triage process to help determine the suitability of an autism or ADHD assessment.

  • Keep clear records of information gathered, next steps, and decisions made.

  • Build a strong understanding of available services in the Leeds area.

  • Develop a good knowledge base of on-line resources, apps, and websites.

  • Act as an advocate for patients and their families/carer, recognising the boundaries of their clinical knowledge; liaising and referring on to other agencies as required

  • Record patient related information onto an electronic patient management system (Mosaic) in a timely and accurate fashion in line with information governance protocols.

Other responsibilities:

  • Build and maintain effective working relationships with partners and stakeholders.

  • Contribute to relevant forums, panels and assessment meetings and processes.

  • Manage time pressures effectively, and meet objectives in the face of competing priorities, challenging timescales, and diversions.

General:

  • All employees must be familiar with and adhere to Northpoint’s operational policies, service protocols, and practice guidelines as required, taking account of any relevant partner protocols and procedures.

  • All employees have a responsibility and a legal obligation to ensure that information processed for both patients and staff is kept accurate, confidential, secure and in line with the Data Protection Act (2018) and Security and Confidentiality Policies

  • All employees have a duty and responsibility for their own health and safety and the health of safety of colleagues, patients and the general public.

  • All employees will undertake statutory and mandatory training as deemed appropriate and have a willingness and commitment to professional development.

  • Northpoint Wellbeing is committed to ensuring that no job applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital status, gender reassignment or pregnancy/maternity. We fully support the right of all staff to equal opportunities and are committed to the development of a diverse workforce. All employees are expected to be familiar with and adhere to Northpoint’s Equal Opportunities Policy

  • All employees will adhere to Northpoint Wellbeing safeguarding procedures.

  • Contribute to annual appraisal process by working with line manager to identify areas for development and set appropriate objectives

  • Attend and engage with reflective practice and clinical supervision

  • It is the responsibility of all staff that they do not abuse their professional position for personal gain, to seek advantage of further private business, or for other interests, in the course of their official duties.

Support:

  • Line management and clinical/reflective supervision will be provided by Northpoint

  • Peer support from staff within Northpoint and with colleagues from other agencies is facilitated and encouraged.

  • Northpoint places a strong emphasis on the development, wellbeing, training, and support of all staff (including non-clinical staff)

  • All staff receive an annual review/appraisal which will include support to access relevant CPD (continuing professional development) training.

  • Travel expenses will be provided at the standard Northpoint rate.

  • Additional expenses will be claimed through Northpoint as agreed.

  • Mobile smartphone and access to IT systems will be provided.

This job description does not provide an exhaustive list of duties and may be reviewed in conjunction with the post holder in light of service development.

Person Specification

Skills and Competencies

Essential

  • Able to deal with calls from young people, parents/carers and professionals which may involve emotional or distressing content.
  • Able to provide support and guidance to parents and professionals on matters relating to children's mental health and emotional wellbeing.
  • Able to build and maintain relationships with others both internal and external to the organisation whilst maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.
  • Ability to plan and organise workload in line with targets and pressures.
  • Able to work according to organisational policies and procedures.
  • Actively committed to personal & professional development.
  • IT skills i.e. able to use Microsoft Office packages including Word and Outlook and video conferencing such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams.
  • Ability to use IT based case management systems and databases.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills, including communicating clearly and concisely at all levels (both orally and in writing).
  • Ability to write clear, accessible & professional reports/letters (e.g. discharge letters).
  • Ability to respond to and manage safeguarding and clinical risk issues safely and appropriately, seeking appropriate support and guidance when required.

Qualities and Values

Essential

  • An understanding of, and sensitivity towards, mental health issues.
  • Evidence of a positive and proactive attitude, motivated and solution-focused.
  • Commitment to the principles of inclusivity, equality and diversity, demonstrated in practice.
  • Demonstrates values consistent with those of Northpoint.

Knowledge and Understanding

Essential

  • Understanding of the emotional health problems which can affect children, young people and their families, and of the interventions available.
  • Knowledge and understanding of neurodevelopmental conditions (Autism and ADHD).
  • Understanding of the principles of confidentiality data protection, consent, information sharing and safeguarding policies.

Desirable

  • Understanding of the pressures facing professionals who support children and young people, such as schools and GPs.
  • Knowledge of relevant local services and referral pathways in Leeds.

Training, Experience & Qualifications

Essential

  • Experience in assessing child protection/safeguarding concerns and the ability to act on these in accordance with relevant safeguarding procedures.
  • Experience of working in a mental health service or a similar organisation supporting children, young people and/or families.
  • Experience of assessing mental health needs.

Desirable

  • Experience of supporting young people with SEN, and or neurodevelopmental needs (ASD/ADHD).
  • A relevant qualification in the field of mental health or similar.
  • Experience of working in CAMHS or similar.
  • Experience of providing telephone support/advice.
  • Experience of using an electronic patient record system (e.g. Mosaic/IAPTus/SystmOne).
  • Experience of working with mental health disorders such as ASD and ADHD.
Person Specification

Skills and Competencies

Essential

  • Able to deal with calls from young people, parents/carers and professionals which may involve emotional or distressing content.
  • Able to provide support and guidance to parents and professionals on matters relating to children's mental health and emotional wellbeing.
  • Able to build and maintain relationships with others both internal and external to the organisation whilst maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.
  • Ability to plan and organise workload in line with targets and pressures.
  • Able to work according to organisational policies and procedures.
  • Actively committed to personal & professional development.
  • IT skills i.e. able to use Microsoft Office packages including Word and Outlook and video conferencing such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams.
  • Ability to use IT based case management systems and databases.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills, including communicating clearly and concisely at all levels (both orally and in writing).
  • Ability to write clear, accessible & professional reports/letters (e.g. discharge letters).
  • Ability to respond to and manage safeguarding and clinical risk issues safely and appropriately, seeking appropriate support and guidance when required.

Qualities and Values

Essential

  • An understanding of, and sensitivity towards, mental health issues.
  • Evidence of a positive and proactive attitude, motivated and solution-focused.
  • Commitment to the principles of inclusivity, equality and diversity, demonstrated in practice.
  • Demonstrates values consistent with those of Northpoint.

Knowledge and Understanding

Essential

  • Understanding of the emotional health problems which can affect children, young people and their families, and of the interventions available.
  • Knowledge and understanding of neurodevelopmental conditions (Autism and ADHD).
  • Understanding of the principles of confidentiality data protection, consent, information sharing and safeguarding policies.

Desirable

  • Understanding of the pressures facing professionals who support children and young people, such as schools and GPs.
  • Knowledge of relevant local services and referral pathways in Leeds.

Training, Experience & Qualifications

Essential

  • Experience in assessing child protection/safeguarding concerns and the ability to act on these in accordance with relevant safeguarding procedures.
  • Experience of working in a mental health service or a similar organisation supporting children, young people and/or families.
  • Experience of assessing mental health needs.

Desirable

  • Experience of supporting young people with SEN, and or neurodevelopmental needs (ASD/ADHD).
  • A relevant qualification in the field of mental health or similar.
  • Experience of working in CAMHS or similar.
  • Experience of providing telephone support/advice.
  • Experience of using an electronic patient record system (e.g. Mosaic/IAPTus/SystmOne).
  • Experience of working with mental health disorders such as ASD and ADHD.

Employer details

Employer name

Northpoint Wellbeing Ltd

Address

Hunslet Road

Leeds

LS10 1JN


Employer's website

https://northpoint.org.uk (Opens in a new tab)

Employer details

Employer name

Northpoint Wellbeing Ltd

Address

Hunslet Road

Leeds

LS10 1JN


Employer's website

https://northpoint.org.uk (Opens in a new tab)

For questions about the job, contact:

Head of Service & Clinical Lead

Helen McGlinchey

helen.mcglinchey@northpoint.org.uk

07850772050

Date posted

11 January 2022

Pay scheme

Agenda for change

Band

Band 4

Salary

£22,549 to £24,882 a year Agenda for Change band 4

Contract

Fixed term

Duration

12 months

Working pattern

Full-time, Job share

Reference number

B0173-22-6797

Job locations

Hunslet Road

Leeds

LS10 1JN


Supporting documents

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