Networks relevant to the mental health support workforce

Networks

This diagram clarifies the key networks that have strategic influence related to the mental health support workforce, as well as their responsibilities and the relationships between them at regional and local levels. It is likely that Trusts’ HR Directors and/or Directors of Nursing sit in the regional networks and so will be the key contact to go via if you want to engage with these networks.

The diagram also highlights key items that would be relevant for these networks to discuss and inform on about the mental health support workforce.

As you use this resource, you may find it helpful to consult recent research into the mental health support workforce carried out by the Nuffield Trust and King’s College London, alongside resources such as NHS Futures, a platform that allows the sharing of innovation and best practice. Additional resources provided in this toolkit, including the Managers’ Checklist for reducing barriers to accessing CPD, Equality Diversity and Inclusion section and Learning and Development section, (in particular resources on apprenticeships) may also be useful as you navigate the networks influencing the mental health support workforce.

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Key stakeholders

If you are responsible for, or have an interest in, the mental health support workforce then engaging with the following stakeholders to discuss the mental health support workforce will help to build a better offer for them:

• Local HR and L&D teams who can advise (or are best placed to find answers) on the various policies, initiatives and opportunities the organisation can provide
• Local HR Directors (HRD) and Directors of Nursing (DoN) will sit on various regional networks who can advise on more strategic plans and links to regional offerings
• Regional networks and expertise, who can be accessed by HRDs / DoN, should ensure to include the mental health support workforce in all strategic planning

These networks are present across all England regions. There may be more that exist in your region such as those from the third sector, Strategic Clinical Networks or professional specific such as Psychological Professions Network; we recommend you use the prompts here to have similar discussions with them.

Networks PDF download