Crisis Recovery Worker - Ashford

Job summary

You will work as part of an integrated team, collaborating closely with the NHS, Liaison Psychiatry and emergency services to provide a safe, non-clinical alternative to A&E for people experiencing mental health crisis. We are looking for experienced and compassionate people to provide high-quality, recovery-focused support to people with a range of mental health needs, including those who may have complex needs such as learning disabilities, physical health difficulties and substance misuse.

Main duties of the job

Providing crisis intervention and emotional support face-to-face, by telephone and via video. Assessing situations and making safe, effective decisions under pressure. Completing accurate risk assessments and co-producing robust safety plans. Recording new contacts and details of visits and calls accurately on electronic systems. Working collaboratively with partners, stakeholders and external agencies, including Police, Ambulance Services and GP surgeries, to support individual safety and effective service delivery. Supporting hospital ward staff with in-reach information for patients awaiting discharge. Participating in handovers, training and mentoring new staff to support consistency across the service. Promoting the service through community events and networks and helping to normalise help-seeking.

About us

Mental Health Matters (MHM) is a national charity delivering innovative, life-changing mental health support for individuals and communities across the UK. Through our diverse range of services, we help people improve their mental wellbeing, overcome barriers and lead fulfilling lives. Everything we do is people focused. Whether supporting those who access our services or investing in the wellbeing and development of our colleagues, people are at the heart of MHM. Our workforce is the driving force behind our success, and we are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive and values-led environment where talented individuals can thrive and make a meaningful difference. By joining MHM, you'll become part of a compassionate and ambitious organisation that is committed to improving mental health, promoting recovery and creating positive change in communities across the country.

Details

• Date posted: 25 September 2026
• Pay scheme: Other
• Salary: £26,607 to £29,378 a year
• Contract: Permanent
• Working pattern: Part-time
• Reference number: R000662
• Job locations: Ashford Safe Haven, Paula Carr Diabetes Centre, William Harvey Hospital, Kennington Rd, Willesborough, Ashford TN24 0LZ, Ashford, TN24 0LZ, United Kingdom

Job responsibilities

CRISIS RECOVERY WORKER Hours of work:Various part-time hours available Salary:£26,607 FTE with progression to £29,378 FTE per annum Location:Ashford Safe Haven Shifts:18:00 - 00:00 Could you be there for someone in crisis? This is more than just a job.. it's a chance to make a difference! About the role We have an exciting opportunity for a Crisis Recovery Worker to join our growing team at Ashford Safe Haven. As part of an exciting service development, we are expanding our team to ensure professional, compassionate mental health support is available to people in the Ashford area. You will work as part of an integrated team, collaborating closely with the NHS, Liaison Psychiatry and emergency services to provide a safe, non-clinical alternative to A&E for people experiencing mental health crisis. We are looking for experienced and compassionate people to provide high-quality, recovery-focused support to people with a range of mental health needs, including those who may have complex needs such as learning disabilities, physical health difficulties and substance misuse. You will provide immediate emotional support and stabilisation, complete risk assessments, co-produce safety plans and support people to understand and manage factors affecting their mental and physical wellbeing. The role will also involve:

Providing crisis intervention and emotional support face-to-face, by telephone and via video.

Assessing situations and making safe, effective decisions under pressure.

Completing accurate risk assessments and co-producing robust safety plans.

Recording new contacts and details of visits and calls accurately on electronic systems.

Working collaboratively with partners, stakeholders and external agencies, including Police, Ambulance Services and GP surgeries, to support individual safety and effective service delivery.

Supporting hospital ward staff with in-reach information for patients awaiting discharge.

Participating in handovers, training and mentoring new staff to support consistency across the service.

Promoting the service through community events and networks and helping to normalise help-seeking.

Excellent communication skills and the ability to engage with people experiencing high levels of distress with empathy and compassion.

The ability to make safe and effective decisions under pressure.

A strong understanding of risk assessment, safety planning and crisis intervention.

Emotional intelligence, self-awareness and the ability to remain calm and sensitive when supporting people in crisis.

Experience of maintaining accurate records and using IT systems effectively.

The ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, external agencies and wider partners.

A commitment to providing consistent, recovery-focused and person-centred support.

The ability to work effectively as part of a team while also using your own initiative.

A willingness to contribute to training, handovers, mentoring and wider service development.

Competitive salaries, with an annual pay review process

25 days Annual leave, increasing with length of service, plus bank holidays

Enhanced Occupational Sick pay

Access to our workplace pension scheme

Family friendly and flexible working arrangements to support a good work life balance

Access to our Wellbeing Offer - including EAP, Virtual GP service and wellbeing resources

Life Assurance and Free Will writing service

Blue Light Card and Charity Workers discounts

Access to Tickets for Good

Employee recognition and celebration schemes

A tailored induction programme, bespoke Personal Development and Career Pathways to support you in your role and your career aspirations