The Think Ahead Attributes

The Think Ahead attributes
Think Ahead is an intensive programme with strictly limited places, and the selection process
is very rigorous.
We are looking for exceptional individuals who have the potential to become excellent mental
health social workers, and go on to become leaders in their fields.
You dont need any prior experience of social work, but you will need to demonstrate that
you have the attributes necessary to excel on the Think Ahead programme and beyond.
To be successful, you will need to demonstrate all of these attributes:
Leadership
The ability to act as a professional role model, demonstrate initiative, and engage others
and enable them to achieve their goals.
As a mental health social worker you will lead the coordination of individuals care, engaging
with different colleagues and professionals to work towards someones recovery. You may
need to be creative in your approach to situations as you work with individuals, their carers,
and other professionals.
Motivation
Personal commitment to transforming the lives of people with mental illness, with an
understanding of the positive impact of social work and the Think Ahead mission.
We are looking for people who are committed to making a positive impact for individuals,
families, and communities. You need to understand how social work contributes to improving
mental health, and how Think Ahead is making a difference.
Adaptability
Resilience and flexibility in changing circumstances, with the ability to work under
pressure and deal with uncertain or unexpected outcomes.
Social work is an ever-changing environment and you will need to be prepared for every
eventuality, including crisis situations. Your work with vulnerable adults will put you under
pressure, and you will need to remain calm and patient in unexpected situations. You will
work with a variety of different people in a range of working environments.
Relationship-building
Empathy and respect for all individuals, with the ability to build relationships and
understand peoples motives and perspectives.
You will need to develop strong relationships with people, from service users and carers to
colleagues in mental health, government, the legal system, and many other services. You must
be able to listen to others and respect their opinions, and confidently put forward your views
as an advocate for the people in your care.
Communication
The ability to collaborate with and influence a wide range of people, in person and
through written communication.
You will need to communicate effectively and respectfully with people whose ability to
communicate may be impaired by their illness. A vital element of your role will also be
collaborating and negotiating with other mental health professionals (such as psychiatrists
and psychologists) and people from other organisations. As well as communicating
assertively in meetings and discussions, you will need to create robust, concise written
arguments, for example in writing Mental Health Act tribunal reports.
Problem-solving
The ability to objectively analyse situations, using evidence and clear judgement to
generate effective solutions.
You will have to make decisions under pressure, in complex situations with only conflicting
or incomplete information available. This will require you to apply your knowledge of
legislation, policy, and social work interventions, using clear judgement and objectivity.
Self-awareness
The ability to understand, and reflect critically on, both your own personal development
and how your actions affect others.
To manage your personal wellbeing and your impact on the people you work with, you must
be in touch with your own emotions and abilities. You will manage a pressured workload and
face difficult ethical judgements, so you must be aware of professional boundaries and know
when to seek support and advice. You will be required to regularly reflect on your work,
seeking feedback and engaging in continuous professional development.

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