Think Ahead

At Think Ahead, we want to see a society where everyone with mental health problems can flourish.

That won’t happen unless people can improve their social circumstances – because life issues like relationships, living arrangements, and employment have profound effects on mental wellbeing.

The Think Ahead programme is a new route into mental health social work, for graduates and career-changers remarkable enough to make a real difference to people with mental health problems. Our two-year graduate programme combines on-the-job learning, a master’s degree, and leadership training, all of which help our participants to become great social workers, strengthen mental health services, and spread social approaches to mental health across society.

On Think Ahead’s paid two-year programme, you will

• Take on a challenging and varied role, with responsibility from day one
• Be paid to spend two years training on-the-job and working in a community mental health team, alongside clinical professionals
• Make a significant difference to the lives of people with mental illness
• Gain two qualifications, qualifying as a social worker and gaining a master's degree
• Start a fast-track career with leadership training and transferable skills

As a mental health social worker, you will empower individuals with mental illness—and their families, carers, and communities—to lead fulfilling, independent lives. Through talking therapy, support, and advocacy, they enable people to manage the social factors in their lives—like relationships, housing, and employment—that allow them to get well and stay well. Building resilience in individuals, their networks, and their communities transforms people’s wellbeing and improves our society and economy.

When you complete the two year programme, you will become part of the Think Ahead alumni network. Most people choose to stay in the social work profession, but there will be a number of career options available to you including becoming a leading frontline practitioner, moving into service leadership, or using your leadership experience in an alternative career.