Community occupational therapist jobs

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 Deputy CYP Lead to join our CYP Team at this pivotal time on a permanent 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:

We are seeking an experienced and committed Deputy Children and Young People (CYP) Lead to support the development and delivery of our therapeutic services at a pivotal time of growth and transformation.
 

Reporting to the CYP Clinical Lead, the successful candidate will play a key role in providing day-to-day leadership and guidance to CYP counsellors and therapists. You will help ensure that services for children and young people are consistently safe, effective, trauma-informed, and survivor-centred.
 

This is a varied and impactful role that combines clinical leadership, safeguarding oversight, service development, and line management. It offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute to shaping, strengthening, and expanding high-quality CYP services.
 

What You’ll Do

• Support the CYP Clinical Lead with assessments, allocations and case distribution across CYP pathways
• Provide clinical guidance and day-to-day support to CYP counsellors and therapists
• Line manage allocated CYP staff and contribute to recruitment, induction and staff development
• Oversee group work programmes, including family support groups
• Undertake the role of Designated Safeguarding Officer for the CYP team
• Deputise as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead as part of the rota when required
• Provide guidance on complex safeguarding concerns and ensure appropriate escalation
• Contribute to service improvement, contract delivery and performance monitoring
• Build and maintain effective relationships with external agencies and partners
• Deputise for the CYP Clinical Lead where required

About You

• Degree-level qualification in counselling or psychotherapy (or equivalent experience)
  Professional membership with an accredited counselling/psychotherapy body
  Minimum of 200 hours post-qualification supervised client work
  At least 3 years’ experience working with children and young people affected by rape and sexual violence
  Experience leading or supporting a team
  Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation (children and adults)
  Completed Level 3 safeguarding training
  Experience in the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) sector
  Understanding of trauma-informed, survivor-centred and feminist practice
  Experience working with diverse communities
  Ability to use data and outcomes to support service improvement
• Experience working with marginalised or under-served communities
  Knowledge of housing, welfare benefits or related legislationn

This role offers the opportunity to:

• Take the next step in your leadership journey
• Gain experience of safeguarding, clinical leadership and service development
• Support and develop a dedicated team of CYP practitioners
• Contribute to the future direction of CYP therapeutic services at RCSL
• Be part of a dynamic, creative and values-led organisation

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

Rape Crisis South London is an equal opportunities employer. We particularly welcome applications from women who are under-represented in leadership roles within the violence against women and girls (VAWG) sector.
 

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.
 

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
   

We are committed to removing barriers and creating an inclusive workplace.
 

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 Director of Programmes and two other panel members.

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

The role will initially be open for two weeks (until 12:00 noon on Wednesday 16 April 2026). 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 to our recruitment inbox.

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 

Key responsibilities and duties

The Clinical Service Manager will be responsible for supporting the effective day-to-day management and development of The Maya Centre’s clinical services. Key duties will include:

• Providing clinical management across The Maya Centre’s therapeutic services and therapist teams.
• Managing the client journey from referral through to assessment and allocation.
• Overseeing referrals, triage, assessments and allocation processes for new clients.
• Acting, alongside the Clinical Director, as a senior clinical point of contact and providing case consultation where required.
• Supporting and managing therapists, including responding to clinical queries and ensuring compliance with policies and procedures.
• Undertaking clinical risk assessment and risk management as required.
• Ensuring outcome measures, including CORE, are completed and used effectively across clinical services.
• Maintaining high standards of clinical governance, record keeping, monitoring and evaluation.
• Supporting the recruitment, induction and professional development of therapists.
• Working with the Clinical Director, CEO and wider team to develop and improve The Maya Centre’s service model.
• Building positive relationships with partner agencies, community organisations, health and social care providers, funders and other stakeholders.
• Supporting consultation events, stakeholder engagement and the promotion of The Maya Centre’s services.
• Contributing to reports for trustees, funders and other audiences.
• Attending relevant meetings, including clinical team meetings, supervisors’ meetings, management meetings and CPD sessions.
• Representing The Maya Centre externally at relevant inter-agency and clinical meetings where appropriate.
• Supporting fundraising, events and wider organisational activities when required.

Person specification:

Essential

• Full membership, registration and accreditation with UKCP, BPS, BPC and/or BACP.
• A minimum of three years’ post-qualification clinical experience.
• Evidence of continuing professional development in line with relevant professional body requirements.
• Experience of working clinically with clients who have experienced childhood trauma.
• Experience of culturally sensitive clinical practice.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation and its implications for clinical practice.
• Good knowledge and experience of a broad range of psychological therapies.
• A minimum of two years’ experience of clinical service management.
• Experience of management within an organisational context.
• Experience of working in different cultural contexts.
• Excellent people management skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with community organisations, health and social care providers, partner agencies and funders.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience of collecting and measuring clinical outcomes, including CORE.
• Good IT, numeracy and data skills, with the ability to collate and present information clearly.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to meet deadlines.
• A strong commitment to anti-discriminatory, trauma-informed and intersectional practice.

Desirable

• Qualifications or training in therapeutic modalities beyond psychodynamic or analytic approaches.
• Experience and knowledge of using CORENET.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

Please note that this post is open to female applicants only, as being female is deemed to be a genuine occupational requirement under Schedule 9, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010.

We want our organisation to reflect the diversity of the women we serve, and we particularly welcome applications from women with lived experience of the issues we work with, and from women from Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic or Refugee communities

Night Engagement Worker

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.

Due to the nature of the service, it is an occupational requirement that the post holder is female and the post is therefore exempt from the provisions of the Equality Act 2010 in terms of Schedule 9, Part 1, and Paragraph 1 of the Act.

Job Title: Night Engagement Worker 

Location: Based in Catford, closest station is Tulse Hill Station with great bus links nearby. This service does have step free access.

Salary: £28,800

Shift Pattern: 37.5 hours per week Monday to Sunday 20:30 - 08:30. You may also be required to work outside these hours as per service and resident requirements, which includes weekends and bank holidays which form part of your rota

About the Role

We’re looking for a Night Engagement Worker to join the team in Catford. You will support within the Offender Personality Disorder Housing Accommodation to support in successfully rehabilitating and reintegrating our residents and participants back into the community. The service delivers support for people in the criminal justice system who are deemed high risk, and likely to meet criteria for personality disorder. Penrose OPD HASS service offers specialist accommodation to people with high risk/high needs and require intensive support to overcome barriers to resettlement and progress towards independent living in the community.

You will assist with those who have recently been released from prison, secure health settings, or are transitioning from Approved Premises. Your role will involve supporting all aspects of key engagement activities, aiding their rehabilitation, reablement, and reintegration into society by providing pathways, support, and appropriate interventions, that will enable successful resettlements and work with internal and external partners and agencies to achieve desired outcomes. 

Key Responsibilities include:

• Support residents who may be facing challenges with substance misuse, helping them take positive steps forward.
• Creating one to one person centred support plans to support residents in achieving their goals.
• Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of residents at all times during the shift, including regular check ins and carrying our protocols.
• Planning activities to engage residents with other people, communities, and opportunities during the evening which may include movie nights and games nights.
• Lone working is part of the role, but you’ll always have a supportive team around.
• Be a valued and reliable member of the team, completing handovers for day colleagues for a seamless service.

About You

We're looking for someone who shares our passion for supporting people who may be deemed as having a personality disorder and have been referred to us by the criminal justice service. Our residents are at the forefront of our service delivery, so building trusting and professional relationships is key. You’ll be adaptable, proactive, and confident using your initiative to resolve challenges, and keep the night service running smoothly. Teamwork is essential and having previous knowledge of the needs our residents may have. Each support plan is tailored to the individual, so you'll help deliver care that truly meets their needs. 

What are we looking for:

• Due to the nature of this service, it is an occupational requirement that the postholder is female
• Understanding of Personality Disorder
• Understanding of Criminal Justice System
• Awareness of external opportunities which are available such as with education, employment and benefits
• Organised and proactive in managing tasks like welfare checks, safeguarding, and accurate record keeping
• Experience working with people with multiple and complex needs
• Experience contributing to support plans, reviews, and helping residents work toward their goals
• Confidence in identifying when someone may be struggling with their mental or physical health, substance use, or other challenges, and knowing how to respond
• Ability to motivate and empower others to reach personal goals and overcome barriers to independence
• Ability to use, learn and adapt to IT at an intermediate level, including Microsoft and other software programs
• Understanding and compassionate of the different needs people with multiple and complex needs have and be aware of the social marginalisation that can be attached to people who face personal challenges
• 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.

Please note that as part of our process, we complete an enhanced DBS check, some roles may require further vetting. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds.

Unfortunately, we are unable to provide sponsorship, please ensure you have full right to work in the UK prior to applying to our positions.