Adult counselling service jobs

This is an important opportunity to join a respected service supporting adopted adults, birth family members and their descendants, and to help shape high-quality practice that makes a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

Main Responsibilities: 

As Practice Manager, you will provide professional leadership, supervision and operational oversight across intermediary services. You will support a team of PAYE and sessional Intermediaries and Researchers, oversee service quality and safeguarding practice, and contribute to service development and strategic growth. The role also involves building strong relationships internally and externally, ensuring that our services remain responsive, safe and effective.

· Provide supervision, guidance and practice leadership to Intermediaries and Researchers.

· Oversee referrals, allocations, case progression and case closure across the service.

· Support decision-making in complex and higher-risk cases, including safeguarding concerns.

· Lead service development, quality assurance activity and continuous improvement work.

· Maintain oversight of active cases and case records to ensure high standards of practice.

· Represent the service in meetings with internal colleagues, commissioners and external professionals.

· Support recruitment, induction, training and ongoing development of staff and sessional workers.

Main Requirements (for details check the job description and person specification):

You will hold a professional qualification in social work, counselling or psychotherapy, and bring strong knowledge of the lifelong impact of adoption. You will have experience in post-adoption and permanency work, alongside the confidence to supervise staff, manage competing priorities and contribute to service development. We are looking for someone with excellent communication, sound judgement, a collaborative approach and a clear commitment to safeguarding, equality, diversity and inclusion.

Benefits:

- an annual paid leave entitlement that commences at 25 working days (pro-rata), and after a full year of service, rising each April by one day, subject to a maximum of 30 working days plus bank holidays

- up to 6% matched-pension contributions

- enhanced paid sick leave and paid family leave provisions

- eye care and winter flu jabs vouchers

- cycle to work scheme

- investing in your professional development with ongoing quality training and career development opportunities

We are forward looking, ambitious and committed to continuous improvement. We are a people focused, can-do organisation, which strives for excellence in all we do and operates with mutual respect.

SAIL is looking for an Independent Sexual Violence Advisor based in Chesterfield Derbyshire. Your primary role will be to provide a pro-active service for adults who have been or are victims and survivors of sexual violence. You will work within and outside of the criminal justice system, throughout Derbyshire. This post is funded until March 2028. £24,567.90 unqualified / £26,212.20 qualified + employer pension contribution 3% pro rata.

This is a part time post 21 hours per week. Salary paid pro rata

SAIL is an established leader in the field of working with victims and survivors of childhood sexual abuse, incest, rape and all forms of sexual violence. We work will all genders from all communities.

Currently our service provides specialist ISVA, counselling, drama therapy, support groups, helpline and drop in.

Independent Sexual Violence Advisers (ISVAs) play an important role in providing specialist tailored support to victims and survivors of sexual violence. An ISVA is an adviser who works with people who have experienced rape and sexual assault, irrespective of whether they have reported to the police.

Brief Job description

You must have extensive experience of planning, working with high caseloads, alongside strong crisis management skills. Experience in Support Work roles such as domestic abuse, substance misuse, mental health, advocacy support or a related field is required. You can demonstrate an awareness and understanding of the needs of adult victims and survivors of sexual violence. You must be able to prioritise cases and work in collaboration with other agencies throughout Derbyshire including the CPS and the police. You will have a working knowledge of the court system and be able to support clients to navigate through it with ease and confidence. You will have an approved and accredited ISVA qualification or a willingness to undertake the ISVA qualification. You must have at least one year’s experience in safeguarding (adults/children.)

You will be required to attend relevant meetings and will provide regular reports to your line manager. You will be required provide talks and presentations to local groups / agencies on the work of SAIL, a strong commitment to developing networks and partnerships with the aim to increase awareness of the ISVA role in the community.

You will be required to travel across Derbyshire the use of a vehicle would be a distinct advantage.

Job Types: Part-time, Temporary

Part-time hours: 21 per week

Salary: From £24,567.90 per year

Schedule:

Monday to Friday

Work Location: One location /WFH one day a week

Application deadline: 12th July 2026

Safe Haven Sussex CIC is a non-profit community interest company that provides accommodation and support for vulnerable adults who were homeless or vulnerably housed. Safe Haven Sussex has 42 houses across the city, ranging from 3-8 bedrooms with shared communal facilities.

The role of the Support Coordinator is to provide floating support to our residents who are individuals deemed a low risk to themselves or others. The aim is to enable and encourage our residents to achieve their goals and gain the skills necessary to move on to live independently in the future.

Full Specifications are available on request, however a summary of responsibilities are:

• Manage a caseload of approximately 20 service users, providing consistent and tailored support.
• Conduct thorough risk assessments and develop effective, individualised support plans.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date records in line with organisational and regulatory standards.
• Address each service user’s needs holistically and signposting to relevant services, considering their physical, emotional, and social well-being.
• Develop personalised support plans that reflect the goals and preferences of each individual.
• Encourage and support service users in engaging with appropriate community services to aid recovery, personal development and build independence.
• Assist service users in creating budget plans.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to connect service users with the most relevant services.
• Support individuals to attend appointments.
• Facilitate one-to-one weekly key work sessions and group activities, setting clear agendas and measurable outcomes.

A full driving license, use of a vehicle and business insurance for the vehicle is essential for the role.

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent.
Schedule: Monday - Friday (9am-5pm).

Benefits:

• Possible early finish on Fridays
• 25 days annual leave, plus bank holidays.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) - incudes access to short term counselling and wellbeing support.
• Monthly wellbeing activities - such as badminton and bowling.
• Annual work and play away days.
• Office closed on bank holidays.
• Regular reflective practice sessions - dedicated time for staff to process experiences, share learning and support personal and professional growth.
• Refreshments.
• Training and development opportunities.
• Casual dress
• Company events
• Company pension
• Cycle to work scheme
• Discounted or free food
• Free or subsidised travel
• Health & wellbeing programme

Education:

• A-Level or equivalent (preferred)

Licence/Certification:

• Driving Licence and use of a car (required)

Work authorisation:

• United Kingdom (required)

Work Location: In person

Be Part of Meaningful Change

Rape Crisis South London (RCSL) is entering an exciting new chapter. With a new CEO, refreshed Senior Leadership Team, and an ambitious vision for the future, we are laying the foundations for a bold new organisational strategy.
 

We are now seeking an Interim Adult Counselling Clinical Leadto join our Adult Counselling Team at this pivotal time on a Fixed Term basis.

As a specialist charity supporting survivors of sexual violence across twelve South London boroughs, we provide counselling, group therapy, advocacy, prevention education, and professional training. With an annual income of approximately £4 million, we are growing and strengthening our infrastructure to better serve survivors and communities.

About the Role
This is a key leadership role providing clinical, operational, and strategic oversight of our Adult Counselling service.
 

You will play a central role in ensuring safe, effective and high‑quality support for survivors, while driving continuous improvement and contributing to organisational strategy.
 

What You’ll Do

• Lead the clinical delivery and governance of the Adult Counselling service
• Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
• Oversee risk, safeguarding, and complex case management
• Manage, support, and develop a multidisciplinary team
• Drive service improvements through data, insight and evaluation
• Contribute to strategic planning and service development
• Manage budgets and ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks
• Represent RCSL externally and build strong partnerships

About You

You are a compassionate, experienced clinical leader with a strong commitment to feminist, trauma‑informed practice.

Person Specification

• Qualification in counselling/psychotherapy and membership of a recognised UK professional body (e.g. BACP, UKCP) 
• Significant experience supporting survivors of sexual violence
• Minimum 600 hours post‑qualification supervised practice 
• Strong safeguarding and risk management expertise
• Experience of leading teams and managing services
• Accredited membership
• Clinical supervision qualification
• Experience within the VAWG sector
• Additional language skills

What You Bring

• Deep understanding of trauma‑informed practice and the impact of sexual violence
• Strong leadership, decision‑making and communication skills
• A commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion
• The ability to foster a safe, supportive and high‑performing team culture

Safeguarding and Safer Recruitment

Rape Crisis South London is committed to safeguarding survivors and service users. The post holder will contribute to maintaining the organisation’s safeguarding standards.

This includes:

• Promoting the safety and wellbeing of children, young people and adults at risk
• Identifying and reporting safeguarding concerns
• Following organisational safeguarding policies and procedures
• Supporting a culture where everyone feels safe, respected and supported

Our safer recruitment processes include:

• Values-based interviews
• Verification of identity, qualifications and employment history
• Reference checks
• Enhanced DBS checks where required
• Safeguarding training and supervision
• Equality, Feminist Commitment and Values.

Intersectionality and Reasonable Adjustments

We recognise that experiences of sexual violence are shaped by intersecting factors such as:

• Race and ethnicity
• Disability
• Sexuality and gender identity
• Socioeconomic background
• Immigration status
• Faith and culture
   

Our work is grounded in feminist principles, recognising sexual violence as both a cause and consequence of gender inequality. We centre survivor voices and prioritise empowerment, inclusivity and intersectionality.
 

Applicants are encouraged to let us know if they require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, such as:

• Alternative interview formats or timings
• Additional time for written tasks
• Accessible documentation
• Support relating to disability, neurodivergence or health needs
   

Learning and Development

As a charity undergoing transformation and growth, we welcome colleagues who are committed to continuous learning and professional development.

Interview Process

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview, conducted via MS Teams.

Stage one: MS Teams with the Interim Head of Therapeutic Services and two other panel members.

The whole process from advertisement to appointment, may take up to 3 -4 weeks.

Post holder will be required to undertake Enhanced DBS
The role will initially be open for one month (until filled). However, due to the urgent need for support, applications will be reviewed and interviews arranged on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged.

The interview will explore experience and approach to:

• Safeguarding
• Equality, diversity and inclusion
• Wellbeing and feminist practice
• Trauma-informed therapeutic work
• Leadership responsibilities relevant to the role

This post is open to women only (Schedule 9, Paragraph 1, Equality Act 2010).
We particularly welcome applications from women underrepresented in leadership roles in the VAWG sector. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

How to apply
Please submit:

• Your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to in PDF format
• Interview date(s): W/C 15th June 2026

Thank you for your interest in RCSL. If you have not heard from us within one month of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.

AI in Job Applications 
We understand some candidates use AI tools when applying. Whilst we welcome the use of technology to support clear communication and structure, we want to learn more about you, so please ensure that your application reflects your own skills, knowledge and experiences 

Deputy Service Manager

When registering to this job board you will be redirected to the online application form. Please ensure that this is completed in full in order that your application can be reviewed.

Job Title: Deputy Service Manager

Location: Based within a non-residential service in Wembley, working within communities, homes, and other residentials. This service does have step free access however we are unable to guarantee this at some of the other locations where the role is based such as homes and community based locations.

Salary: £31,700

Shift Pattern: 37.5 hours per week Monday to Friday on a rota working 09:00 - 17:00, hours may be extended 08:00 - 18:00. You may also be required to work outside these hours as per service/participant requirements. You will also take part in our out of hours on call rota for managers.

About the Role

This is a great opportunity for a Deputy Service Manager to join our team based in Wembley. You will support the Service Manager to ensure high quality service delivery, being a key contact for staff, helping them feel supported, skilled, and empowered within their roles. In this role you will be based within a service which is at the heart of delivering person-centred support to vulnerable adults who have been, or are at risk of homelessness. This is a floating support service based in the heart of Wembley, near the Civic Centre. With a team who are dedicated to supporting our participants within their homes, communities, and in outreach based support.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Line Management and Leadership, supporting your team providing advice, guidance and support throughout their employment lifecycle
• Support the Service Manager in leading the day to day operational delivery of the service
• Risk Management ownership, ensuring processes and policies are followed
• Financial Management, including petty cash and budget management
• Contract management and Internal auditing, admin, and general other duties as required. 

About You

We are seeking a passionate, driven and motivated colleague to help lead our service in a trauma informed and inclusive way. Someone who is knowledgeable in the needs of our residents, particularly around homelessness and complex needs, able to support the team in delivering their daily duties. You will be driven with passion for what we do, and be able to work flexibly to meet service needs, providing new ideas and opportunities to develop the service further to continue to achieve excellence!

• Understanding of homelessness and complex needs of people from different backgrounds
• Ability to provide high quality support and line management to staff.
• Ability to support the Service Manager and help manage staff with daily tasks, caseloads and overall day to day running of the service.
• Ability to motivate and empower a team to achieve KPI's
• Ability to provide advice, guidance, and support to the team on all aspects of service delivery including resident related queries
• Willingness and ability to work flexibly to meet service needs
• IT proficiency - we use various systems so look for someone who can learn and navigate new systems including case management, Microsoft, ATS, HR systems, and other types of organisational software
• Alignment with our values of Ambition, Empowerment, Inclusivity, and Transparency

Please refer to the JDPS attached for more details on the vacancy and our requirements/key criteria.

What we Offer

• 25 days (Full time equivalent) annual leave, increasing with the length of service
• Employer Pension Contribution
• Eligibility to register with Blue Light Discount Card
• Access to discounted tickets for music events, shows, sports and more
• Reflective Practice regular sessions with a therapist provided by an external provider to support Mental Health and Wellbeing at work
• Training and Development, including access to courses, upskilling, and progression plans
• Employee Assistance Programme, including counselling
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Cycle-to-work scheme
• Annual Staff Awards
• EDI Ambassador programme

About Social Interest Group (SIG)

SIG is a not-for-profit organisation providing thousands of people with good-quality support and care in residential, drop-in centres, community floating support settings, probation settings, and hospitals. We do so across London, Brighton, Bedfordshire, Luton, Kent and Liverpool. Our goal is to transform lives through empowering change. 

We believe good care and support improves lives with the vision to create healthier, safer, and more inclusive communities. Join us on our mission to empower independence through trauma-informed solutions and dynamic partnerships that keep people out of prison, out of hospital, and off the streets.
Want to know how we work? Watch our short Theory of Change video to see how we support people towards a brighter future: Theory of Change Further details can be found on our website here: Theory of Change - Social Interest Group - Social Interest Group. 

Additional Information

Please note that this job advert may close early due to screening applications on an ongoing basis. We advise applying as soon as possible for your application to be taken into consideration at the early stages.

Hours: 4 days per week (30 hours) between 9.00am and 5.00pm

Clolsing date:  Tuesday 30th June at 11pm

Interview date: Friday 10th July

Salary: £48,000 p/a pro rata 

Contract: 1 year fixed term (covering a maternity leave position)

The Southmead Project is an equal opportunities employer providing free specialist counselling and support for survivors of abuse across Bristol and surrounding areas. Our recruitment is done in line with safer recruitment practices. We welcome people of any race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, class, ability, language, religion and cultural background. We value the differences between people and affirm each person as an individual.

We value our team very highly and pride ourselves on being a supportive employer. We provide the following benefits to encourage a supported, well-rounded and enriched practice:

• Paid supervision for 1.5 hours per month, with an external supervisor of that person’s choice

• Line management for 1 hour per month

• Training budget of £500 per year to spend on relevant training of that person’s choice

• Employer pension contribution of 5%

• Generous annual leave allowance and paid sick leave

• Cycle to work scheme

• Optional private counselling for up to 12 sessions per year with an external counsellor of that person’s choice

Therapeutic Management

• To manage and support a staff team, including the Head of Active Recovery, a Counselling Lead, Nexus Counselling Manager, a Family Support Group Facilitator, and administrators.

• To oversee all of the charity’s therapeutic services and ensure that efficient and high-quality services are delivered.

• To be the charity’s Designated Safeguarding Lead to respond effectively and efficiently to safeguarding concerns.

• To ensure staff are sufficiently trained in adult and child safeguarding and that training records are kept up-to-date.

• To oversee the charity’s pre-trial therapy processes and be a point of contact for the police.

• To develop and improve the charity’s therapeutic services, including any expansion of the services.

• To manage therapeutic recruitment, inductions and training.

• To hold monthly staff meetings and service team meetings when needed.

• To oversee the individual and group supervision arrangements and reporting for all staff. 

• To manage and have overall responsibility for the ongoing use of an online Case Management System, ensuring that data is inputted accurately for reporting purposes.

• To support the charity’s quality assurance and development of its services through monitoring  and responding to client feedback and outcomes data.

• To develop the charity’s survivor voice work and ensure that the charity’s services are informed by survivors and their lived experience. 

• To manage any complaints raised by clients. 

Leadership

• To work collaboratively as part of a Leadership Team to make decisions and resolve issues affecting the day-to-day running of the charity and management of its staff team.

• To strategically plan and develop the therapeutic services of the charity.

• To develop relationships with partner agencies and professionals to raise awareness of our therapeutic services and strengthen our work.

• To build and maintain a positive working relationship with the Board of Trustees.

• To attend and contribute to trustee meetings and trustee working group meetings, reporting on the therapeutic services and any clinical matters arising. 

• To assist in promoting the charity by attending all relevant meetings directly connected with your work.

• To undertake any other duties appropriate to the needs of the charity.

Client Work

• To provide one-to-one counselling for survivors of abuse of all genders, both online / by phone and face-to-face, with a caseload of approximately 4 clients. 

• To maintain confidential and accurate counselling notes of all sessions.

• To attend monthly one-to-one clinical supervision with a supervisor approved by the Southmead Project. (Supervision is a requirement of this charity as members of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy).

• To attend monthly one-to-one line management meetings.

• To work to the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy ethical guidelines.

• To work within the framework, spirit and ethos of the Southmead Project’s Equal Opportunities Policy, and actively engage in promoting the policy within the charity and in all dealings with clients and other agencies.

• All members of staff, paid and unpaid, are required to undergo the enhanced level of Disclosure and Barring Service check.

Person Specification

ESSENTIAL:

• Diploma in Counselling (British Association of Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP) accredited course or equivalent); and to have BACP accreditation or be working towards BACP accreditation or equivalent.

• To be a registered member of BACP, UKCP, NCS or equivalent professional body, with over 5 years of supervised counselling experience.

• Significant experience of providing one-to-one counselling for survivors of abuse and carrying out initial assessments and risk assessments.

• Significant knowledge and understanding of the issues affecting this client group and the impact of trauma.

• Significant line management and appraisal experience with the ability to effectively co-ordinate a team. 

• The ability to support staff to foster a positive working environment and deliver a high quality of service.

• Experience of recruiting staff, including inductions and training.

• Experience of managing safeguarding concerns and supporting others to act in accordance with safeguarding policies and in the best interests of the client or those at risk. 

• The ability to work with clients online or by phone.

• Experience of working collaboratively as part of a leadership team and ability to contribute to an organisation’s future development.

• Experience of developing and maintaining working relationships with partner agencies and professionals. 

• Excellent organisational and planning skills.

• Excellent IT skills and experience of using Microsoft Word and Excel, with the ability to confidently use and support others with an online Case Management System. 

• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.

• A commitment to identifying ongoing personal development and training needs and to take appropriate action to ensure these needs are met.

• The ability to keep accurate and confidential records of client work.

• Experience of being a client in a formal counselling relationship.

• Experience of and commitment to working with diversity.

• To have the capacity to work flexibly within a small professional team.

• The ability to manage own time and work load effectively.

• The ability to chair meetings

DESIRABLE:

• Training in trauma processing approaches, such as EMDR, Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET),  brainspotting, trauma-focused CBT, and Rewind Technique.

• Experience of working within a community-based organisation.

• Experience of working with people that have used drugs or alcohol to cope with trauma.

• Experience of running therapeutic groups.

• Experience of delivering training. 

Salary: £30.322 FTE (£15,161 pro rata for 18.75 hours)
Hours: 18.75 hours per week 
Location: Worcestershire, Herefordshire and across West Mercia, with national travel as required
Closing date: 03-07-2026 23:59
 
WMRSASC reserves the right to close this vacancy early if a suitable candidate is identified or a sufficient number of applications are received.
 
West Mercia Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Centre (WMRSASC) is seeking to appoint an experienced, compassionate and highly motivated Early Intervention, Prevention and Assessment Practitioner to join our Purple Leaf service. This is an opportunity to contribute to specialist work aimed at preventing sexual harm and supporting children and young people, families, carers and professionals through high-quality assessment, consultation, intervention and training. The post also includes specialist assessment and intervention work relating to sexualised behaviours.

About the Role
As Early Intervention, Prevention and Assessment Practitioner, you will:

• Undertake risk and needs assessments and produce clear reports and recommendations
• Deliver psychological, psychoeducational and therapeutic interventions
• Manage a defined caseload of clients
• Work closely with children and young people, families, carers, professionals and partner agencies
• Develop and deliver specialist sexual violence training and educational resources
• Maintain accurate records, evaluation data and outcome reporting
• Help develop service policies, procedures and practice guidance
• Promote Purple Leaf and WMRSASC services locally and nationally
• Represent WMRSASC at meetings, events and through stakeholder engagement.

 
About You
We are looking for someone who brings both professional expertise and a strong commitment to survivor-centred, trauma-informed practice.
You will ideally have:

• A Level 3 qualification or above in social care, health care, community work, education, therapy or a related field
• Experience of working within the sexual violence field
• Experience of working with children and families
• Knowledge of safeguarding, child protection, and legislation and guidance relating to sexual violence
• The ability to provide non-judgemental, trauma-informed support
• Strong organisational, communication and crisis management skills
• Confidence working independently and collaboratively with multi-agency partners
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

 
Desirable qualifications include AIM Specialist or equivalent assessment training, Adult Learning certification, and a Level 3 qualification in Sexual Violence.

What We Offer
WMRSASC is committed to supporting and valuing its staff. We offer:

• Hybrid and flexible working
• 26 days annual leave plus 8 statutory holidays (pro rata), increasing to 31 days after 5 years’ service
• 5% employer pension contribution
• Benenden Health Scheme
• Accredited training and career development opportunities
• Regular management supervision and support

Safeguarding
WMRSASC is committed to recruiting with care and to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Relevant background checks and Disclosure and Barring Service checks will be required.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
As an equal opportunities employer, WMRSASC is committed to ensuring the fair and equal treatment of all current and prospective employees. We do not condone discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity, or marriage and civil partnership.
 
We aspire to foster a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join WMRSASC.
 
This is an opportunity to join a specialist organisation making a meaningful difference to the lives of survivors and communities. We welcome applications from individuals who share our values and are committed to delivering high-quality, trauma-informed practice.
 
REF-228 965

Pay: £63,099.00 per year

Job title: Director of Services

Hours per week: 37 hours Monday to Friday

Salary: £63,099

Location: Coventry and Warwickshire

About the role

Would you like to play a key role in improving the lives of older people living within Warwickshire and Coventry? We have a rare and exciting opportunity to join our senior management team at a time of significant change for the charity. Trustees have set out an ambitious strategy for growth and long-term sustainability that is supported with significant investment in technology, buildings and staffing resources. This investment will enable us to expand the reach of our current service offer and enable the growth of new services that meet the growing needs of our communities.

Our current service offer includes a range of dementia support services, home support, advice, financial support services, counselling, befriending, social groups and activity centres.

As Director of Services, you will maintain and develop service quality, support and develop a team of managers. You will build strong strategic stakeholder relationships and play a significant role in the broad leadership of all aspects of the charity.

How to apply

Please apply directly on our charity website Age UK Coventry & Warwickshire. If you would like an informal discussion regarding the role please email or phone us.

Age UK is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates, regardless of age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital/civil partnership status, or pregnancy and maternity. We guarantee an interview to disabled candidates who meet the essential criteria. We welcome requests for flexible working.

Age UK is committed to safeguarding adults at risk, and children, from abuse and neglect. We expect everyone who works with us to share this commitment.

Early application is encouraged as we will review applications throughout the advertising period and reserve the right to close the advert at any time.

Age UK politely requests no contact from recruitment agencies or media sales. We do not accept speculative CVs from recruitment agencies nor accept the fees associated with them.

Staff benefits include:

• Employee Assistance Programme
• Blue Light Discount Card
• Age UK Discount Portal
• Tickets for Good
• 27 days annual leave + Bank Holidays (Pro Rata)

Closing Date: 8am on Monday 6th July 2026

Interview Date: Week Commencing 13th July 2026

Work Location: In person

Deputy Service Manager - Supported Living - Stroud

Lead with Purpose. Inspire Independence.

At Hft, a leading Social Care provider, we stand alongside learning-disabled adults, empowering them to live life their way. As a Deputy Service Manager, covering this 10 month maternity contract in Stroud, you’ll work closely with the Service Manager to create supported living services that provide genuine choice, independence, and opportunities to achieve goals. There is a chance that the role could be extended.

You’ll lead and inspire your team to deliver safe, inclusive, and person-centred support, turning everyday moments into experiences that bring dignity, skill-building, and belonging. Your leadership will have a direct, positive impact on the lives of the people we support.

What you'll be doing

As a Deputy Service Manager, you’ll lead and inspire your team to create meaningful, outcomes-focused services:

• Spend at least 20% of your time on shift, supporting your team, role-modelling great practice, and mentoring colleagues
• Lead by example, promoting kindness, respect, and person-centred values in everyday practice
• Coordinate and oversee person-centred support across multiple services, ensuring consistency and quality
• Keep services safe, compliant, and focused on positive outcomes for the people we support
• Observe and support your team’s practice, offering constructive feedback and guidance for continuous improvement
• Encourage and develop your team, helping them grow in confidence, skills, and expertise
• Build open, trusting relationships with families, carers, partners, and external agencies
• Support your Service Manager by stepping in when needed, ensuring services run smoothly and consistently
• Take part in the on-call duty manager rota and occasionally support in other services, helping the wider team as needed

Who You Are

You’re passionate about enabling learning disabled adults to live life their way, and you bring:

• Experience managing supported living services for learning disabled adults
• A Level 4 Lead Practitioner Diploma in Adult Care or hold a Level 3 diploma and be willing to undertake this apprenticeship qualification within an agreed reasonable timescale as part of a development plan
• Strong leadership skills that inspire and develop your team
• A proactive, solution-focused approach to delivering excellent services
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills

Life at Hft

Joining Hft means becoming part of a team that believes every learning disabled adult should have the opportunity to live life their way. We’re a social care provider with a clear focus on the people we support, and we’re committed to delivering high-quality, sustainable services.

In this role, your leadership will directly influence how people achieve their goals, build independence, and engage with their communities. You’ll be part of a warm, inclusive environment where your guidance helps teams grow, take initiative, and deliver experiences that truly matter.

Our values guide everything we do: we’re kind and compassionate, inclusive, positive, and solution-focused, with a clear vision for the best possible life for everyone we work alongside.

What We Offer

• A role with real impact, where your leadership empowers others
• A warm, supportive, and inclusive team culture.
• A role with real impact, where your work empowers others.
• 33 days’ annual leave (including bank holidays)
• Access to award-winning training and career development
• Flexible pay options via Wagestream
• Wellbeing support including Digital GP, counselling, and mental health services
• Discounts on mobiles, life assurance, and referral rewards
• Family-friendly policies and return-to-work bonuses

Stand alongside learning disabled adults as they live life their way. Apply today and become part of a future where everyone’s life is truly their own.

Accessibility: We believe everyone should have the support they need to succeed. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the application process or in the role itself, Hft - proudly a Disability Confident Employer - is committed to ensuring disabled people can apply, succeed, and thrive with us.

Background checks: We’re committed to keeping the people we support safe, so this role requires a satisfactory DBS and background checks. Don’t worry; we’ll guide you through the process.

We are embarking on a transformative moment for The OutHouse when we will begin to deliver our advocacy and wellbeing services into new target districts across Greater Essex over the next three years by co-producing with the community.  This role (maternity cover for 12 months) will be central to delivering services in collaobarion with our community to continue to the running of the existing service and support the successful expansion of our services.

We were founded as The Colchester Gay Switchboard and over the past 47 years we have continued to evolve to meet the needs of the local LGBTQ+ community. Today, The OutHouse is built upon the legacy of the hard work and dedication of the hundreds of local LGBTQ+ community members who came before us. This legacy drives us forward. 

Representing our Community 
We encourage applications from members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, non-binary and gender questioning community. 

Safe Haven Sussex CIC is a non-profit community interest company providing accommodation and support for vulnerable adults who have been homeless or vulnerably housed. The Seagull Project is a medium-support service providing housing for up to 40 residents across 7 properties in Brighton and Hove. The Seagull Project takes a harm-reduction approach, supporting individuals with a range of complex and multiple support needs, which may include the active use of substances.

The Seagull Project Manager will be responsible for overseeing the delivery of the service and manage a team of Support Coordinators, ensuring a high standard of person-centred and trauma informed support is consistently provided to residents. In addition, the Project Manager will be responsible for supporting the team to manage risk, enabling residents to live safely and are supported to work toward their goals. A comprehensive understanding of safeguarding procedures and risk management is necessary for this role.

Job Type: Full-time, 1 year contract with possibility of extension.
Schedule: Monday - Friday (9am-5pm).
A full driving licence, use of a vehicle and business insurance is essential for the role.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee the referrals and assessments process, working closely with Brighton and Hove City Council.
• Attend regular meetings with the Supported Housing and Commissioning Team, providing relevant updates about the service and residents.
• Support the welfare team with incidents and provide out of hours support on designated days, in line with the on call rota.
• Work in partnership with local services to provide comprehensive and holistic support.
• Ensure staff deliver support within a trauma-informed framework, aligning with the objectives of the Local Authority.
• Work toward organisational and Brighton and Hove City Council targets.
• Support the team to coordinate and accompany residents to key appointments, including but not limited to GP visits, recovery services and probation meetings.
• Manage a team of three Support Coordinators and a Team Leader, providing regular work reviews, casework supervisions and team meetings.
• Produce monthly reports about the service, to be shared with the Head of Service and Directors.
• Work collaboratively with the Finance Manager to address longstanding challenges relating to rent and service charge.
• To promote a harm-reduction approach to the management of incidents, with the aim of supporting residents to maintain their housing.
• Conduct critical incident debriefs and provide emotional and psychological support to the team, whilst signposting to the Employee Assistance Scheme and other relevant specialist support.
• Work with the team to create support plans and risk assessments, ensuring these are reviewed and updated regularly.

Experience:

• 1 year supporting vulnerable adults.
• 1 year experience leading, supervising or managing a team.
• Experience in a similar or related role, with a good understanding of the sector.

Benefits:

• Potential early finish on a Friday
• 25 days of A/L, increasing again after first year of employment.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) - incudes access to short term counselling and wellbeing support.
• Monthly wellbeing activities - such as badminton and bowling.
• Annual team building event.
• Office closed on bank holidays.
• Refreshments.
• Training and development opportunities.

The On Demand Shift Manager provides operational leadership, clinical oversight and shift coordination for the On Demand bereavement support services which operate Mondays through Fridays 8am to 8pm. The role ensures that children, young people, and adults receive timely, safe and compassionate responses to bereavement needs through digital and on-demand channels.

In addition to line managing the On Demand Bereavement Specialists, the post holder also works on shift as part of the delivery rota to support the team directly, provide real-time guidance, and covers frontline services gaps. This blended role combines hands-on leadership, active service participation, and quality assurance, promoting excellent clinical standards, safeguarding practice, and a culture of learning and care. The post holder will work closely with the Head of On Demand Services to ensure that On Demand Services remain responsive, trauma-informed and aligned with best practice and organisational priorities.

Main Responsibilities

Leadership and Management

· Lead and coordinate daily On Demand service operations to ensure timely and effective response to live support requests

· Working closely with the other On Demand Shift Managers, manage team rotas, shift allocations, and cover arrangements to maintain consistent staffing and service continuity

· Provide real-time oversight during active service hours, offering guidance on case complexity, prioritisation and risk management

· Work on shift as part of service delivery to provide direct bereavement support, model best practice and ensure adequate cover during periods of high demand or staff absence

· Ensure service efficiency through proactive communication, timely handovers, and smooth transitions between shifts

· Support the Head of On Demand Services in monitoring resourcing, workflows and performance metrics

·  Offer live, on-shift supervision and mentorship to On Demand Bereavement Specialists, ensuring quality and consistency of interventions

· Support staff in making safe, informed, and trauma-sensitive decisions in line with organisational safeguarding policies

· Provide clinical leadership for the On Demand Bereavement Specialists on shift, offering case consultation and decision-making support particularly in high-risk, ethically complex or emotionally intense presentations

· Hold clinical responsibility for the most complex service users on shift, supporting staff to formulate risk, decide on interventions, and coordinate onward referrals or emergency responses in line with organisational policies and processional codes of ethics

· Model high standards of clinical thinking, boundaries and self-care, supporting staff and volunteers to manage vicarious trauma, moral distress and the emotional impact of working on an On Demand service

· Facilitate reflective debriefing following challenging or traumatic cases to maintain staff wellbeing and service stability

· Ensure all support aligns with the NICE (2004) Level 2 psychological intervention framework and current evidence-based practice

· Foster a compassionate, psychologically safe team culture that prioritises practitioner wellbeing, resilience, vicarious trauma awareness and continuous learning from service delivery

· Collaborate with the Head of On Demand Services on workforce planning, recruitment, induction and succession to maintain service resilience and capacity

Communication and Relationships

· Communicate clearly and sensitively within the organisation and with external partners, including parents, carers and professionals across social care, education, health and mental health services (i.e. schools, social services, CAMHS, CMHTs and/or GPs)

· Provide clear, supportive and trauma-informed communication to bereaved children, young people and adults during live shifts, adapting approach to age, crisis level and digital medium

· Offer real-time guidance, debriefing and constructive feedback to On Demand Bereavement Specialists during shifts, promoting consistent standards and shared learning

· Build collaborative relationships with internal teams and external stakeholders to support integrated care pathways

· Communicate effectively with the Head of On Demand Services and senior leadership on shift incidents, risks, service pressures and quality improvements, escalating appropriately

· Handle sensitive feedback, complaints and critical incidents with empathy, transparency and solution focus, maintaining trust with internal and external stakeholders

· Adapt communication style and approach to suit the needs, preferences, and emotional states of children, young people and adults, including those with neurodiverse profiles or communication difficulties

· Provide clear, compassionate explanations of support options, safeguarding procedures, and next steps to children, young people, adults and families

· Maintain professional boundaries while fostering a safe and supportive environment for children, young people and adults

· Respond to challenging or emotionally charged situations with sensitivity, professionalism, and a focus on empathy and support

· Ensure accurate and timely documentation of communications and decisions in line with organisational policies and data protection regulations

Knowledge, training and experience

· Assess and engage in interventions with children, young people and/or adults in accordance with best practice

· Complete comprehensive psychosocial assessments which include assessments of risk and determining appropriate level of response/intervention

· Deliver targeted pre/post bereavement support and interventions utilising a range of therapeutic and psychosocial techniques, working within level 2 of the NICE (2004) psychological framework

· Advanced understanding of grief, loss, trauma, child development, and the psychological and social impact of bereavement on children, young people, families and adults

· Apply sound clinical judgment and maintain professional accountability for practice in line with national standards, organisational policies, and personal relevant professional Code of Conduct

· Maintain knowledge about current, evidence-based practice

· To maintain a personal profile of professional development in accordance with professional requirements/governing bodies

· Demonstrate knowledge of all relevant policies and procedures

· Adhere to legislation and statutory guidance related to Safeguarding Children and Young People, Safeguarding Adults, and the Mental Capacity Act, providing advice and guidance to colleagues and partner agencies where appropriate

· Participate actively in clinical supervision and reflective practice to ensure safe, ethical, and effective service delivery

· Contribute to the development and sharing of knowledge within the team by supporting training, mentoring, and peer learning opportunities

Analytical and judgment skills

· Strong ability to make rapid, sound clinical and safeguarding judgments during live shifts, assessing risk, prioritising cases and deciding on immediate interventions or escalations

· Analyse real-time service data to optimise shift deployment, identify trends and recommend operational improvements

· Alongside the Head of On Demand Services critically evaluate team performance, recordings, transcripts and audits to provide targeted service or staff development, mitigate practice drift and uphold clinical governance standards

· Exercise exceptional professional judgment in assessing the emotional, psychological, and social needs of children, young people, and adults pre and post bereavement and in the delivery of immediate on demand support

· Analyse complex information gathered through assessment, observation, and communication to identify individual needs, risks, and strengths

· Recognise and manage situations that involve ambiguity, uncertainty, or emotional intensity, drawing on supervision and established frameworks for professional support

· Apply a trauma-informed and developmentally appropriate lens to clinical decision-making, ensuring sensitivity to cultural, social, and contextual factors influencing grief

· Contribute actively to meetings, clinical supervision, peer supervision, case discussions, and service reviews to plan, coordinate, and evaluate strategies of care and support

· Ensure accurate, timely, and meaningful data recording and reporting to inform clinical practice, service evaluation, and organisational performance monitoring

· Planning and organisational skills

· Strong shift and staff coordination

· Plan and organise work autonomously while engaging collaboratively with colleagues and volunteers to support coordinated care and seamless service delivery

· Support in the organisation of comprehensive quality assurance processes including shift audits, case sampling, outcome tracking and compliance monitoring

· Plan and deliver team training, drills and simulations for crisis scenarios, digital tool proficiency and new protocols, ensuring readiness for peaks in bereavement demand

· Provide cover and support for On Demand Support Service staff during periods of absence or high demand

· Maintain accurate, up-to-date documentation in accordance with confidentiality, data protection, and statutory requirements

· Demonstrate self-awareness and reflective capacity, using supervision and peer support to sustain personal wellbeing and professional effectiveness

· Contribute to the development of efficient, evidence-based practices by supporting team planning, service evaluation, and continuous improvement initiatives

Person Specification

· Level 4 qualification (or above) in counselling, psychotherapy, clinical psychology, counselling psychology or arts psychotherapy Current registration with a professional body (ie. HCPC, BACP, UKCP, NCPS)

· Current registration with a professional body (ie. HCPC, BACP, UKCP, NCPS)

· Evidence of relevant continuing professional development

· Experience of leading a team, ideally in bereavement, palliative care, mental health or closely related fields

· Experience with digital platforms

· Proven track record of successfully managing multidisciplinary teams delivering services to complex service users and complex safeguarding and risk issues involving children and adults

· Proven skills in managing teams and change successfully

· Experience of working therapeutically with children and young people

· Experience of working therapeutically with adults

· Robust knowledge of the emotional and psychological impact of bereavement and the needs of bereaved children, young people, families and adults

· Strong understanding of grief, loss and trauma across the life course, and of evidence-based bereavement interventions for children, young people and adults

· Deep understanding and knowledge of psychological theories, therapeutic interventions and models of grief work for children, young people and adults, and their effective application in practice

· Able to make clear psychological assessments inclusive of risk, safeguarding and mental health needs for children, young people and adults

·  Expert knowledge of safeguarding policies and procedures

· Strong leadership, communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to influence at senior levels and work collaboratively across teams and organisations.

· Strong understanding of change management and how best to implement change

· Excellent communication skills both verbal and written

· Attention to detail and produces reports and information to a consistently high standard

· Ability to manage time effectively, meeting deadlines while maintaining quality and accuracy

· Ability to successfully work collaboratively with colleagues, demonstrating strong interpersonal skills and the ability to influence and engage others positively

· Ability to deliver effective support, supervision, and line management to staff and volunteers, fostering professional growth and accountability

· Model high levels of personal integrity, professionalism, and ethical conduct

· Bring passion and enthusiasm for delivering high quality digital first bereavement services to children, young people, families and adults

Benefits

· 25 days’ holiday plus bank holidays (pro rata if applicable) with increase for long service.

· TOIL for our hours work.

· Contributory pension scheme.

· Company sick pay.

· Employee Assistance Programme.

· Life assurance.

· Training loans.

· Enhanced family friendly policies.

Recruitment Timetable

Application deadline: 17th June 2026 at midnight

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high number of applications for the role before the closing date.

Please refer to our recruitment pack for further details on the interview process.

Our specialist children's practitioners provide child-led play therapy sessions on a weekly basis, usually for 6-16 weeks. Sessions give children the opportunity to process what has happened to them and make sense of the complicated and confusing emotions they may be experiencing.  Our practitioners work from our purpose-designed therapeutic playroom in Colchester or from some of our outreach premises in other areas, using a range of techniques including sand tray, art and imaginative play.

What we expect from our Sessional Counsellors/Play Therapists:

· Support up to eight CARA clients each week

· Maintain and update accurate database records of clients

· Diploma in Counselling or equivalent, with a minimum of 400 counselling hours.

· Certificate in Counselling Children, Play Therapy qualification or equivalent

· Experience of working therapeutically with children with psychological and behavioural problems.

· An understanding of how trauma affects children both physically and emotionally.

· An ability to work creatively to enable children to process their conscious and unconscious emotions.

· An ability to work collaboratively with parents, while protecting children’s confidentiality.

· To liaise with other agencies including social care, Children and Adolescent Mental Health service (CAMHS) and schools, and attend meetings and provide reports, where required.

· Attendance of one CARA Meeting per month and attendance of monthly point of contact meetings.

· Attendance of clinical supervision, provided by a CARA-approved supervisor.

· Attend annual safeguarding training and other relevant training

· An open and non-judgemental attitude.

· Demonstrable understanding of safeguarding, both in relation to children and to vulnerable adults;

· Sessional Counsellors/Play Therapists will be working with clients on behalf of CARA and not on a private basis.  As such, they will be bound by CARA’s processes, policies and procedures.

· Commitment to the feminist ethos of CARA

· Willingness to commit the necessary time to supporting vulnerable clients

· Membership of BACP, UKCP or equivalent professional body

· Abide by BACP’s Ethical Framework for Good Practice in Counselling and Psychotherapy

· Owing to the nature of the role, we are only able to take on female candidates

What the Sessional Counsellor/Play Therapist can expect from us:

·Training and support

·Ongoing training opportunities

We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and those with additional language skills, including BSL.

About CARA

CARA (Centre for Action on Rape and Abuse) works with victims and survivors of sexual violence and child sexual abuse, providing independent, specialist support and promoting and representing their rights and needs. 

CARA is a registered charity working with adults of all genders, young people and children from across mid and north Essex.  We have a head office in Colchester and outreach premises in Braintree, Chelmsford, Clacton-on-Sea, Great Dunmow and Harwich.  We also provide remote services.

CARA seeks to be an inclusive organisation that actively encourages, supports and values diversity amongst both our service-users and our workers.  We wish to create a culture in which discrimination, in all its forms, is recognised and addressed.

You can read more about CARA’s commitment to diversity and inclusion on our website.  We encourage and welcome applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds.

About Synergy East

CARA is part of Synergy East. We work closely with SERICC Rape and Sexual Abuse Specialist Service and Southend-on-Sea Rape Crisis (SOS Rape Crisis) to deliver the contract for the Office for the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex for services for victims and survivors of sexual violence and child sexual abuse across Essex.

About Us: Richmond Borough Mind has been delivering mental health support to people and their carers in the local community for over 65 years, and we are seeking an experienced Senior Support Worker to join our Emotional Wellbeing Service.

The Role: The Emotional Wellbeing Service (EWS) provides support to those experiencing and recovering from mental ill health. The Senior Support Worker plays a key role in delivering high-quality, strengths-based emotional wellbeing and prevention services for adults across Richmond. The role supports individuals to build resilience, improve wellbeing, reduce crisis and achieve personal outcomes through strengths-based assessment, personalised support planning, risk management and trauma-informed practice.

Key Responsibilities:

· Provide structured 1:1 and group-based emotional wellbeing support in line with strengths-based and recovery-focused principles.

· Complete trauma-informed, strengths-based assessments and co-produce personalised support plans within specified timescales.

· Deliver flexible support in the community venues, homes, online and by phone to maximise accessibility.

· Use evidence-based tools (e.g. solution-focussed scaling, WEMWEBS) to support and measure progress.

· Support clients of the service to build coping strategies, independence, social connection and community participation.

· Provide support to individuals experiencing distress, escalation or early crisis, using de-escalation and trauma-informed approaches.

About You: The successful candidate will have experience of delivering 1:1 support in the community and within people’s homes as well as delivering group-based intervention. The successful person will also have experience of working with a range of mental health conditions across the spectrum of recovery and be able to support those with complex needs such as (but not limited to) substance use, complex trauma, housing and debt issues, relationship challenges, social isolation and financial issues.

We offer:

· 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays per year, increasing by 1 day per full year of service (up to a maximum of 30 days) [pro rata]

· Contributory pension

· Bonus 1 day of annual leave per year over the festive period (pro rata)

· Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) which includes free counselling sessions

· Training and personal development opportunities

· Paid time off for medical appointments

· Staff away days and socials

The successful candidate will be subject to a Disclosure & Barring (DBS) check.