Castlefield Recruitment are working with an NHS Mental Health Trust in the Northwest of England to source an interim Subject Matter Expert in the mental health act and mental health law. As the senior specialist lead, you will be responsible for ensuring the Trust’s full compliance with the Mental Health Act (MHA), Mental Capacity Act (MCA) and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) and Acts as the Trust’s expert adviser on mental health law, policy, governance, audit, and training.

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• Lead on interpretation, implementation, audit and governance of mental health legislation across the Trust.
• Provide expert legal and practical advice to clinicians and managers on complex cases.
• Professionally manage the Mental Health Act administration function.
• Develop policies, procedures, training programmes and service-level agreements with partner acute trusts.
• Ensure national standards, statutory duties and best practice are embedded in day-to-day clinical work.

Main responsibilities

• Trust-wide expert adviser on MHA/MCA/DoLS, including high-risk and complex cases.
• Lead audits, monitor compliance, implement improvement plans, and report to Board committees.
• Develop and deliver role-specific legal training for staff.
• Manage and provide leadership to Mental Health Act administrators and support staff.
• Coordinate MHA administration and support Mental Health Act Managers and governance committees.
• Draft and implement all Trust policies relating to mental health legislation.
• Liaise with external agencies (e.g., social services, acute trusts, commissioners).
• Oversee recruitment, training and re-appointment of Mental Health Act Managers.
• Produce statutory and governance reports and analyse compliance data and CQC findings.

Role Requirements:

• Degree or equivalent professional qualification; or IMHAP membership.
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in mental health / mental capacity law.
• In-depth knowledge of MHA, MCA, Codes of Practice, and case law.
• Experience in audit, policy development, training delivery, report writing, and multi-agency working.
• Strong leadership, analytical, communication and decision-making skills.
• Be available to start in the next 2 weeks
• Have valid right to work in the UK
• Previous NHS experience

About Castlefield Recruitment & How to Apply:

Castlefield Recruitment is a leading specialist in healthcare recruitment, connecting talented healthcare professionals with exceptional opportunities across the UK. We are committed to supporting your career journey and ensuring you find a role that aligns with your skills and aspirations To apply for this role, please submit your CV via the apply button. For more information or to speak our dedicated consultant Scott Hilton, contact Castlefield Recruitment