Therapist jobs

Salary: £33,000 per annum pro rata
Hours: 22.5 hours over 3 days per week, must be available to work Tuesdays
Contract Type: Permanent
Location: Birmingham 
Reports to: Senior Suicide Prevention Therapist 

THE CHARITY 
Suicide is the leading cause of death of men under 35 and three quarters of those who die by suicide are men. James’ Place exists to save the lives of men in suicidal crisis through delivering clinical services. We are a charity currently offering free, life-saving therapy to suicidal men at our centres in Liverpool, London and Newcastle. 

James’ Place was set up by Clare Milford Haven and Nick Wentworth-Stanley in 2008 after their twenty-one-year-old son, James, died by suicide ten days after a minor operation. James had no history of mental illness or depression and had sought urgent help for anxiety and suicidal thoughts but didn’t find it. 

James' Place was set up to make the experience of finding help as easy as possible. We offer men who are experiencing a suicidal crisis a brief, intensive, therapeutic intervention in a safe environment. Men who walk through the door at James’ Place will be in a space where they feel valued and respected.  We provide a calm and peaceful environment both inside the centres and in our outside spaces, accessible to men who visit us as well as their friends and families. We have so far treated over 5,100 men who might otherwise have been unable to access the support they desperately need.

In early 2026 we will be opening our fourth centre in Birmingham. Our new centre in Birmingham will be there to support suicidal men living in the West Midlands.

THE OPPORTUNITY 
We are expanding our newly established team of clinicians to deliver our clinical proven intervention at our new James’ Place centre in Birmingham. As a Suicide Prevention Therapist, you will be an experienced mental health professional or therapist with demonstrable interest in suicide prevention. You will support men who are experiencing a suicidal crisis and their supporter(s), delivering our unique intervention and co-producing effective safety plans to maintain their safety. Successful applicants will be joining a new team at a pivotal time and will have the opportunity to shape the local culture at James’ Place Birmingham. Training and support will be provided by the Head of Centre in Birmingham and the wider James’ Place team.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 
Clinical

• Conduct initial Welcome Assessments with men in a suicidal crisis, assessing risk and the suitability of the James’ Place intervention and co-producing effective safety plans 
• Deliver our therapeutic intervention, building trust and exploring the reasons for crisis
• Use the Lay Your Cards on the Table intervention to encourage men to talk about and explore their feelings, attitudes and behaviours and develop positive coping strategies 
• Take full clinical responsibility of the men under James’ Place care, as a member of the clinical team and in consultation with Senior Suicide Prevention Therapist and Head of Centre when needed
• Escalate care to appropriate services when necessary, including emergency services and secondary mental health teams 
• Deliver one-off guidance sessions to supporters of men under the James’ Place care
• Work collaboratively with other professionals to coordinate comprehensive care
• Demonstrate self-awareness and regularly dedicate time and space, inside and outside of work, to keeping yourself well 
• Undergo clinical supervision with a qualified supervisor to reflect on clinical work and raise any issues or concerns arising from work
• Remain up to date with developments in law, theories and research 
• Engage in peer support sessions, caseload discussions and Reflective Practice with the team
• Contribute to an environment in which confidentiality, privacy and dignity are respected and be clear with clients about limits of confidentiality
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards
• Complete session notes in a timely and effective manner 
• Participate in continuous professional development and engage in training provided both internally and externally 
• Support the Clinical Administration team as and when necessary 
• Support with the creation and facilitation of a Peer Support Group once James’ Place Birmingham is well-established 

Outreach and Engagement

• Support the local management team to increase contact with local community organisations able to refer to us or offer move on support for men completing our intervention
• Support the fundraising team to bring potential supporters into our building and showcase our work, including the facilitation of events

Values

• Demonstrate commitment to the James’ Place values of Focus, Bravery, Respect, Compassion, Professionalism, Collaboration and Hope through all aspects of work

PERSON SPECIFICATION
The role requires someone with a relevant qualification who can confidently support men experiencing a suicidal crisis. You will need to be able to effectively conduct risk assessments and deliver our clinically proven therapeutic intervention to ensure client safety. Strong therapeutic communication, the ability to work autonomously and teamwork skills are also essential to this role, as well as the ability to build trust and hope. 

Essential
Qualification(s)

• A Core Profession such as Mental Health Nurse, Occupational Therapist or Social Worker, counselling or practitioner psychologist registered with NMC, HCPC, or Social Work England

or

• Accreditation as a psychological therapist, psychotherapist, or counsellor registered with BACP, UKCP, BABCP or equivalent, or have completed training and awaiting accreditation

You must hold a relevant qualification to be considered for this role.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Demonstrable experience working with adults experiencing acute psychological distress
• Demonstrable knowledge of social and other factors which could lead to suicidal thinking and actions
• Demonstrable knowledge of the factors contributing to male suicide
• Evidence of being able to deliver a therapeutic session and work in a therapeutic environment  
• Effective communication skills (both written and verbal)
• Good interpersonal skills with the ability to manage difficult situations
• Ability to assess, plan, implement and evaluate therapeutic interventions
• An ability to collaborate with clients in the development of a person centred, individual intervention plan
• An ability to engage clients in the intervention plan, overcoming barriers to communication
• Ability to conduct effective risk assessments and collaborative safety plans with men who are presenting with high risk of suicide, or be willing and able to learn how to do so
• Ability to identify if the James’ Place service is not adequate to maintain the person’s safety and facilitate rapid transfer to the most appropriate service 
• Ability to maintain boundaries within a time-limited intervention 
• Ability to work as an effective team member
• Ability to manage and prioritise own workload, using own initiative and confidence in decision making
• Strong time management
• Ability to maintain up to date client records in line with James’ Place standards
• Ability to maintain own personal safety and the safety of others within the centre
• Knowledge and understanding of Safeguarding Procedures

Values

• Commitment to clinical supervision 
• Ability to engage with James’ Place values 
• Ability to promote people’s equality, diversity and rights 
• Ability to work collaboratively and demonstrate commitment to co-production
• Ability to be transparent, honest and show discretion when needed 
• Commitment to suicide prevention and working with men in a suicidal crisis 

WE OFFER

• A 7% employer contributory pension scheme
• Family friendly policies
• Death in service insurance scheme 
• 25 days plus bank holidays leave entitlement (FTE), including enhanced holiday allowance with incremental rises after qualifying period 

LEARN MORE
If you would like to learn more about working for James' Place, sign up to our online recruitment information session on Wednesday 8th April at 6:30pm - 7:15pm

HOW TO APPLY
To apply, please use the online application system to submit your CV detailing your experience, roles and responsibilities, and answer the three screening questions. Please note, you do not need to upload a cover letter for this role. 

If you have any queries or experience challenges with the application process, please contact us directly. 

Closing date: Friday 1st May, 5pm

Interviews are expected to be held in person on 12th and 13th May.

Our aim is to recruit a team of clinicians who are representative of the communities of men who will access treatment at James' Place Birmingham. We particularly encourage applications from underrepresented groups and those who have experience in delivering therapy within culturally diverse communities, particularly in widely spoken languages within those communities. 

James’ Place is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community. Our aim is that no job applicant, temporary worker or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender and transgender status, race and ethnicity, religion and belief (including no belief), marriage or civil partnership status or sexual orientation.

If you have a disability or health conditions which means you'd benefit from any adjustments to the interview process to help you perform at your best, please do let us know in advance.

Any job offers made are subject to the receipt of two relevant satisfactory employment references. We expect this to include one from your most recent or current employer. Any job offers made are also subject to a satisfactory DBS check and a Right to Work in the UK check.

REF-227 718

Job title: Black, African and Caribbean Psychotherapist

Responsible to: Director of IRIE Mind

Salary: Starting salary is SO1-Sp29a £34,934 pro rata (Full-time equivalent) which equates to £20,494.61 per year.

Hours: 22 hours per week 

Contract type: Fixed Term until August 2027

Location: The Hub, Homerton Row, Hackney, E9 6ED

Purpose of the post

As part of the IRIE Mind team, the Psychotherapist will provide high-quality, culturally responsive and trauma-informed counselling/psychotherapy to clients.

Working within a BACP-accredited counselling service, the postholder will deliver structured therapeutic interventions of up to 12 sessions, supporting clients to achieve meaningful outcomes within a time-limited model.

The role requires a practitioner who can safely hold and work with complex trauma, including experiences linked to racism, systemic inequality, intergenerational trauma and identity. The postholder will apply culturally informed, integrative and evidence-based approaches to support client recovery and wellbeing.

Working as part of a multidisciplinary team, the postholder will contribute to IRIE Mind’s holistic service offer, delivering culturally responsive and trauma-informed talking therapy alongside colleagues delivering psychosocial interventions, including groups, mental health coaching and advocacy, to improve access, engagement and outcomes.

Please see the Job Description and Person Specification for more information.

DBS clearance at Enhanced (without Barring) is required for this role.

 About Mind in the City, Hackney and Waltham Forest:

We are a multi-disciplinary provider of specialist mental health services and a part of the Mind Federation.

We promote both recovery from ill health for people with recurrent and enduring mental health difficulties and early intervention for those at risk of developing mental health issues, or who struggle with common mental health conditions.

We currently support around 5,000 people a year through a variety of services focusing on psychological, social, economic and workplace wellbeing, and support minoritised communities.

Our values are:

Working with Mind CHWF means you’ll be part of a dedicated, passionate, and professional workforce who cares about the work they do and make a real difference to the lives of the people in the City of London, Hackney, and Waltham Forest.

Our values are:

Connected: Creating a compassionate and supportive community.

Fair:  We strive for equity- no-one's needs should go unmet.

Brave: We walk with people, offering help by doing what works - proven or new

We are committed to actively becoming anti-racist in everything we do. This is a critical priority for Mind CHWF. We embrace diversity and understand that being an inclusive organisation that recognises different perspectives, will enable us to provide excellent services.

We are committed to ensuring all our employees are treated fairly and equitably at work and promoting equity in physical and mental health for all.

Those with lived experience of Mental Health are encouraged to apply.

Value-based Recruitment:

We know that for various reasons, not everybody who can successfully perform in a role, performs their best under traditional interview/selection procedures. We are therefore seeking ways to breakdown further barriers in our recruitment & selection process.

Shorted-listed candidates will be provided with some questions to help them prepare for the interview.

How to apply:

To Apply, please access our website. Please note that we are unable to consider incomplete applications.

Please see the document section below for the application pack.

To be considered for this post, we need to receive the following:

1. Completed application form; and

1. A copy of your latest CV.

Please note that if we do not receive the two documents listed above then we can’t consider you for the role.

Once you have completed the application form, please upload to our website. 

The closing date is by 7th April 2026 at 12:00pm, however, please do not delay applying as this advert may close before the stated deadline if we find a suitable applicant for the role.

We are a disability confident employer. All applicants with a disability, who meet the minimum essential short-listing criteria are guaranteed an interview. If this applies to you, please let us know in your application.

Your privacy and the security of your data is our top priority. Please take a moment to read through our applicant’s privacy notice.

Job Title: Consultant Suicide Prevention Therapist
Salary: £65,000 per annum, plus 15% ILW if applicable 
Hours: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week 
Contract Type: Permanent 
Location: Birmingham, Liverpool, London, or Newcastle, with travel to other centres when required
Reports to: Director of Clinical Services

THE CHARITY 
Suicide is the leading cause of death of men under 35 and three quarters of those who die by suicide are men. James’ Place exists to save the lives of men in suicidal crisis through delivering clinical services. We are a charity currently offering free, life-saving therapy to suicidal men at our centres in Liverpool, London and Newcastle. 

James’ Place was set up by Clare Milford Haven and Nick Wentworth-Stanley in 2008 after their twenty-one-year-old son, James, died by suicide ten days after a minor operation. James had no history of mental illness or depression and had sought urgent help for anxiety and suicidal thoughts but didn’t find it. 

James' Place was set up to make the experience of finding help as easy as possible. We offer men who are experiencing a suicidal crisis a brief, intensive, therapeutic intervention in a safe environment. Men who walk through the door at James’ Place will be in a space where they feel valued and respected.  We provide a calm and peaceful environment both inside the centres and in our outside spaces, accessible to men who visit us as well as their friends and families. We have so far treated over 5,100 men who might otherwise have been unable to access the support they desperately need.

In early 2026 we will be opening our fourth centre in Birmingham. Our new centre in Birmingham will be there to support suicidal men living in the West Midlands.

THE OPPORTUNITY
We are looking for Consultant Suicide Prevention Therapist to join our expanding clinical directorate. The Consultant Suicide Prevention Therapist is a senior clinical leader responsible for the delivery, governance, quality and continuous improvement of the organisation’s therapeutic suicide prevention model.

The Consultant Suicide Prevention Therapist reports to the Director of Clinical Services who retains overall strategic, executive and corporate accountability for all aspects of clinical services across the organisation.

Within this structure, the Consultant Suicide Prevention Therapist plays a pivotal leadership role in translating strategic direction into operational delivery of therapeutic services. The postholder ensures consistency, quality, safety and fidelity of clinical practice across centres, working closely with Heads of Centres and clinical staff to embed standards, manage risk and drive service improvement.

The role combines coordination and delivery of specialist clinical expertise, leadership, research and evaluation, clinical training and opportunity to deputise for the Director of Clinical Services in defined areas of delegated responsibility.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Advanced Specialist Clinical Practice

• Provide expert consultation on cases involving increased risk
• Operate with high autonomy in complex, high-stakes clinical decision-making
• Model advanced formulation, safety planning and therapeutic engagement
• Support multidisciplinary decision-making in situations with significant clinical and organisational implications
• Hold a small, specialised caseload offering welcome assessment and interventions

Research and Evaluation

• Review existing research and literature to inform your own work
• Lead clinical audit and service evaluation programmes
• Initiate and oversee research activity in suicide prevention
• Develop academic partnerships where appropriate
• Disseminate learning internally and externally
• Analyse and interpret data and other information
• Comply with ethical, legal, and health and safety requirements when undertaking research

Clinical Training

• Lead on advanced clinical training frameworks
• Design and (co)deliver suicide prevention and risk management training
• Develop and maintain clinical competency frameworks
• Provide supervision to senior clinicians and specialist practitioners as required
• Embed reflective practice and continuous professional development structures

Service Performance, Quality Data Leadership

• Establish and monitor KPIs and clinical outcome measures
• Interpret complex clinical and operational data to inform service improvement
• Lead quality improvement initiatives across centres
• Ensure robust data governance and confidentiality standards
• Oversee digital safety and governance in remote or technology-enabled delivery
• Use evaluation findings to influence strategic and commissioning discussions

Strategic and Service Leadership 

• Support implementation of the Director of Clinical Services’ strategic vision for therapeutic services
• Lead operational delivery of the organisation’s suicide prevention therapeutic model across centres
• Translate organisational strategy into clear clinical standards, competencies and delivery expectations
• Work collaboratively with Heads of Centres to ensure consistent standards of care, governance and risk management
• Provide professional leadership and clinical direction to Principal-, Senior- and Suicide Prevention Therapists
• Ensure fidelity to evidence-based suicide prevention frameworks
• Represent the organisation in multi-agency suicide prevention partnerships and regional forums
• Escalate systemic risks, quality concerns and strategic issues appropriately

Clinical Governance and Organisational Risk

• Lead and maintain the clinical governance framework for suicide prevention services
• Oversee serious incident review processes and ensure implementation of organisational learning
• Lead on governance, audit and risk reporting relating to therapeutic services
• Ensure safeguarding standards are consistently embedded across centres
• Develop and review organisational policies relating to suicide risk management and crisis response
• Ensure readiness for internal and external inspection and compliance within our agreed quality standards
• Manage high level clinical risks with potential organisational or reputational impact

Financial and Resource Responsibility

• Hold delegated responsibility for defined elements of the service budget (e.g., training, research or service development)
• Contribute to workforce planning and establishment modelling
• Ensure effective and efficient use of clinical resources
• Provide input into business cases and funding proposals

Leadership and Line Management

• Provide direct line management to designated colleagues 
• Hold responsibility for appraisal, performance management and capability processes
• Provide professional leadership across all therapist grades
• Support Heads of Centres in managing complex clinical performance or risk issues
• Ensure safe caseload allocation and supervision structures
• Contribute to recruitment and workforce development strategy

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion 

• Lead culturally competent and trauma-informed suicide prevention practice
• Address inequalities in access, experience and outcomes
• Promote inclusive, anti-discriminatory clinical standards and practice across services

PERSON SPECIFICATION
Essential
Qualifications

• Professional qualification in Psychology, Psychotherapy, Counselling, Psychiatry, Nursing, Social Work, or equivalent
• Current registration with relevant statutory body or accredited membership of recognised professional body (e.g., Health and Care Professions Council, NMC, UKCP, BACP, BABCP) 

Experience

• Substantial post-qualification experience working with individuals at high risk of suicide
• Experience leading clinical governance frameworks
• Experience managing serious incident reviews and embedding learning
• Experience contributing to organisational strategy implementation
• Experience delivering advanced supervision and training
• Experience influencing service delivery across multiple teams or sites
• Experience interpreting complex service data to drive improvement
• Experience operating with significant professional autonomy

Knowledge

• Advanced knowledge of suicide theory, risk formulation and evidence-based interventions
• Knowledge of safeguarding legislation and practice relevant clinical governance frameworks
• Understanding of best practice models, and quality standards
• Knowledge of outcome measurement systems and quality improvement methodology
• Awareness of national suicide prevention strategies and policy landscape

Skills and Competencies

• Advanced clinical risk assessment and formulation skills
• Strategic thinking and systems leadership
• Ability to translate strategy into operational delivery
• Strong analytical and data interpretation capability, to design, conduct and evaluate research
• Skilled in influencing senior stakeholders
• High emotional resilience and professional integrity
• Excellent written, verbal and presentation skills

Desirable
Qualifications

• Leadership or management qualification
• Post Qualifying masters and/ or Doctoral level qualification 

Experience

• Experience with delegated budget management.
• Experience representing services in regional or multi-agency forums
• Research publication or formal evaluation leadership

WE OFFER

• A 7% employer contributory pension scheme
• Family friendly policies
• Death in service insurance scheme 
• 25 days plus bank holidays leave entitlement (FTE), including enhanced holiday allowance with incremental rises after qualifying period 

LEARN MORE
If you would like to learn more about working for James' Place, sign up to our online recruitment information session on Wednesday 8th April at 6:30pm - 7:15pm.

HOW TO APPLY
To apply, please use the online application system to submit your CV detailing your experience, roles and responsibilities, and answer the two screening questions relating to the knowledge and skills you hold for this role. Please note, you do not need to upload a cover letter for this role. If prompted to upload a cover letter, please attach a copy of your CV instead.

Closing date: Wednesday 15th April, 12 noon
First round interviews are expected to be held on Wednesday 22nd April via MS Teams.

James’ Place is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community. Our aim is that no job applicant, temporary worker or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender and transgender status, race and ethnicity, religion and belief (including no belief), marriage or civil partnership status or sexual orientation.

If you have a disability or health conditions which means you'd benefit from any adjustments to the interview process to help you perform at your best, please do let us know in advance.

Any job offers made are subject to the receipt of two relevant satisfactory employment references. We expect this to include one from your most recent or current employer. Any job offers made are also subject to a satisfactory DBS check and a Right to Work in the UK check.

REF-227 631

About the role:

At Single Homeless Project, we believe every young person deserves the chance to build a life beyond crisis. As our Young Person’s Psychotherapist, you’ll play a vital part in making that happen. Working within our in house Psychotherapy team, you’ll provide one-to-one psychotherapy and co-produced psychoeducation groups for young people aged 16–25. Your work will focus on prevention, helping young people make sense of their experiences and build the tools to manage life’s challenges before they reach breaking point.

You’ll be part of a multi-disciplinary team offering a psychologically informed service - collaborating closely with support staff, managers and other professionals to create safe, empowering spaces where young people can explore their emotions, relationships and aspirations. From helping a young person understand their experiences of trauma, racism, poverty, family violence and parental substance to facilitating group discussions on understanding their emotions, assertiveness and boundaries in relationships. 

This is a chance to use your clinical skills where they matter most - in a dynamic organisation that’s committed to growth, reflection and learning. You’ll be supported with regular supervision, access to professional development, and opportunities to shape how psychotherapy continues to evolve across SHP. Join us, and help us break cycles, ignite change and create new possibilities for London’s young people.

About you: 

• Experience providing in-person psychotherapy sessions as a qualified Psychotherapist or Psychologist for a minimum of 2 years including substantial post-qualification experience with young people. 
• An understanding of complex support needs, including but not limited to mental health issues, complex trauma, substance use, youth offending and physical ill health, along with the potential barriers to engagement with services both residential and in the community. 
• An understanding of psychologically informed environments (PIE) and how service development can be achieved in collaboration with clients, staff team and service management. 
• Experience of facilitating team led clinical case discussion, providing staff psychological support and critical incident de-briefs.
• Experience of building trust with young people who may be wary of professionals and create a safe, supportive space. 
• A commitment to ensuring equality of access to psychological and psychosocial support to young people who face multiple systemic barriers, with the aim of involving young people in shaping their own support and outcomes. 
• You’re organised, communicate clearly, and committed to inclusive, anti-discriminatory practice in all you do. 
• BCP, BPS or UKCP registration or full BACP accreditation.

About us:

We’re London’s leading homelessness charity – and we get things done.

In a city where hundreds are forced into homelessness every day, our work has never been more needed or more challenging. And we’re not shying away. We’re rolling up our sleeves to make change and helping over 10,000 Londoners every year. We prevent homelessness, provide safe places to live and give people the opportunity to rebuild their lives and transform their futures. And we never give up. 

We’re here for Londoners wherever they are on their journey. We start with trust, building relationships that help people feel safe, supported, and ready to move forward. Every day, we put people first in everything we do, challenging injustice and barriers that keep people from the safety, stability and opportunity they deserve. We stand alongside people as they rebuild and shape a future that feels their own. 

Joining Single Homeless Project means joining a team that’s bold, compassionate and determined to do better for the people we support and for each other. You’ll work alongside colleagues with lived experience, in a space that’s trans-inclusive, disability-friendly, and actively striving to be anti-oppressive and equitable. 

We’re not perfect, but we’re real. We listen. We learn. And we push forward, together. Because this isn’t just a job. It’s a chance to lead with empathy, spark change, and help build a London where no one is left behind.

Important info:

Closing date: Sunday 12th April 2026

Interview date: Monday 20th April 2026 at our Head Office in Kings Cross or a Young Person's service in Greenwich. 

Please note shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a short psychometric test before being confirmed for interview. 

This post will require an Enhanced DBS check to be processed (by SHP) for the successful applicant.

Please note applications are reviewed for AI use in application questions. Applications with insufficient right to work or requiring sponsorship will not be accepted for this role. 

Psychotherapist / Counsellor

At Prospect Hospice, we know that facing a life-limiting illness can bring profound emotional and psychological challenges for patients, families and those who care for them.

We are looking for a compassionate and experienced Psychotherapist or Counsellor to provide specialist psychological support to people navigating the complex emotional realities of serious illness, loss and end of life.

This is a meaningful opportunity to help people explore fear, grief, identity and resilience, while supporting clinical teams to deliver truly holistic hospice care.

Hours: 8 hours per week (with flexibility to meet service needs)

The role

Working as part of our Family Support Team and wider multidisciplinary team, you will provide specialist psychotherapeutic assessment and intervention for patients and families experiencing complex emotional and psychological distress.

Your work will help ensure that psychological and spiritual care remains fully integrated within our hospice services.

In this role you will:

• Provide specialist 1:1 psychotherapy and counselling for patients and families with complex psychological needs
• Support people experiencing distress related to diagnosis, illness progression, trauma, grief and loss
• Contribute psychological expertise within multidisciplinary team discussions and care planning
• Provide consultation, supervision and training to staff and volunteers
• Lead reflective practice and staff support where appropriate
• Contribute to the development and evaluation of psycho-spiritual services across the hospice

Through your expertise and compassion, you will help patients and families find ways to cope, adapt and maintain dignity during some of life’s most difficult moments.

About you

You will be an experienced psychotherapist or counsellor who brings both professional expertise and emotional insight to your work.

You will have:

• A recognised counselling or psychotherapy qualification and registration or accreditation with a recognised UK professional body
• Experience delivering 1:1 psychotherapy in complex or emotionally demanding settings
• Strong skills in assessment, formulation and therapeutic intervention
• Experience supporting people facing serious illness, trauma, grief or bereavement
• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team

Experience in palliative care or healthcare settings would be an advantage.

Informal visits or calls are very welcome, please contact Jaqui Gullis, Clinical Lead or Simon Brooks - Consultant.

The Family Support team say

• "We’re a small, supportive team where everyone’s voice matters.  We work with autonomy and are dedicated to creative, person centred care.”

• “The work is challenging and it can be emotive, but it is deeply rewarding and the team work is strong”.

• "The leadership is strong and leaders are accessible, engaging and empowering. Clinical supervision and reflective practice is actively enabled”.

• "We have a strong learning culture and work closely with an experienced multi-disciplinary team. Together, we create meaningful and positive change for the people we support.”

Interviews will commence Monday 20th April.

We offer a great range of benefits, including:

• 27 days annual leave entitlement plus bank holidays (rising with length of service)
• Membership of the NHS pension scheme is available for existing members
• Generous contributory pension scheme for all other staff
• Discounts with local retailers, gyms and service providers including Blue Light Discount Card
• Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing team
• Supportive induction, training and development
• A values led, inclusive working environment

How to Apply

Please apply through our jobs page

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Equality & Diversity

Prospect Hospice is committed to encouraging a diverse and inclusive working environment. We recognise that promoting diversity and eliminating discrimination in our workplace will bring benefits for our people, our business and the communities we serve.

We welcome applications from all individuals regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, offending background, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.

Safeguarding

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those we support. As part of our SAFER recruitment process, offers of employment will be subject to thorough checks, which may include a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, satisfactory references, online and social media checks and verification of qualifications. We expect all staff to share this commitment and to adhere to our safeguarding policies and procedures at all times.

You must tell us about any unspent conviction, cautions, reprimands or warnings under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975.

Please note, should we receive an overwhelming response for the job advertised, we reserve the right to close the vacancy early.

Join our Psychology and Therapy Hub (PATH) and make a meaningful difference in everyday life for adoptive, kinship and care-experienced families. We’re recruiting an Occupational Therapist with specialist expertise in sensory processing/sensory integration and attachment-informed practice to deliver practical, trauma-informed assessment and intervention that strengthens regulation, participation and connection. 

• Make a difference that families feel every day: co-produce practical strategies that support calmer routines, better sleep, smoother transitions and greater participation at home, school and in the community. 

• Bring specialist sensory expertise: assess sensory processing and regulation needs and translate findings into clear, realistic plans for parents/carers and partner professionals. 

• Work at the sensory–attachment interface: use a trauma- and attachment-informed lens to understand behaviour and build felt safety and co-regulation alongside sensory strategies. 

• Thrive in an MDT: contribute an OT perspective to formulation-led work within PATH, collaborating with psychology and therapy colleagues to create joined-up support. 

• Flexible, UK-wide reach: deliver support primarily online with occasional travel for team days, training or commissioned work (as required and agreed). 

You’ll need: 

• HCPC registration as an Occupational Therapist. 

• Strong experience supporting children/young people and their parents/carers (including complex presentations). 

• Proven skills in sensory processing assessment and intervention, including regulation strategies, activity adaptation and environmental modification. 

• Confidence working in an attachment- and trauma-informed way with adoptive/kinship/care-experienced families (or closely related work). 

• Excellent communication and report-writing skills, able to translate specialist thinking into practical, non-judgemental guidance that families can use. 

ROLE PROFILE

JOB TITLE:

Occupational Therapist

ACCOUNTABLE TO:

Clinical Lead

RESPONSIBLE TO:

Clinical Director

HOURS OF WORK:

Full time / Part time

LOCATION:

Remote working with travel flexibility

DURATION:

Permanent

SALARY / GRADE:

Grade 8 - £43.471

KEY WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

•      Clinical Director and PATH Clinical Lead
•      PATH team
•      AUK staff
•      Children and adults accessing our services
•      Referrers and external agencies as appropriate

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

The Occupational Therapist (Sensory & Attachment) will deliver high-quality, trauma-informed occupational therapy assessment and intervention to families with a history of adoption, kinship care and long-term fostering. The postholder will bring advanced expertise in sensory processing/sensory integration and the impact of early adversity, attachment disruption and developmental trauma on regulation, participation and family life. The role will work as part of a multidisciplinary team (MDT) within PATH, contributing to formulation-led support, practical strategies and therapeutic approaches that strengthen safety, connection, and everyday functioning at home, school and in the community.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

·Provide specialist assessment and intervention where sensory processing differences interact with attachment needs, developmental trauma, neurodiversity and emotional/behavioural presentations.

·Co-produce practical, strengths-based support plans with parents/carers and, where appropriate, the child/young person; provide clear strategies that are realistic for family life.

·Deliver evidence-informed interventions (1:1 and group-based as appropriate) including sensory-based regulation strategies, activity adaptation, routine design, environmental modification and caregiver coaching.

·Integrate attachment- and trauma-informed principles (e.g., PACE/connection-based approaches) into OT recommendations, ensuring strategies support safety, relational connection and felt security.

·Contribute to MDT formulation and case discussions, offering an occupational therapy perspective on function, participation, sensory-motor development and regulation

·Prepare high-quality written outputs including assessment summaries, recommendations, letters and reports suitable for families and professionals; contribute to documentation required for commissioning/regulated service evidence as needed.

·Support families to understand the sensory, neurodevelopmental and trauma/attachment factors that may underpin behaviour and distress, and to implement strategies safely.

·Maintain accurate, timely records in line with organisational policies, data protection and confidentiality requirements.

·Contribute to the development of resources (e.g., guides, webinars, workshops) that translate specialist OT knowledge into accessible tools for families and professionals.

·Contribute to delivery of training in your specialist area (sensory processing, regulation, sensory-attachment interface) internally and externally.

·Actively manage a caseload, prioritising risk and complexity, and working within agreed service pathways, timescales and outcome measures.

CRITERIA

Knowledge and Experience

•  Significant experience working with children and young people and their parents/carers.

•  Experience delivering assessment and intervention for sensory processing differences and regulation needs.

•  Experience delivering remote/online OT interventions and caregiver coaching.

•  Experience of group work (parents/carers and/or young people).

•  Experience of working with adopted children, previously looked-after children, kinship or long-term foster families (or closely related settings).

•  Strong understanding of attachment, developmental trauma and the impact of early adversity on regulation, behaviour and participation.

•  Ability to integrate sensory strategies with relational/attachment-informed approaches.

•  Training/experience in DDP, PACE, NVR, therapeutic parenting or other attachment-informed models.

•  Expert knowledge of sensory processing and sensory-based regulation strategies.

•   Ability to differentiate sensory needs from (and understand overlap with) trauma responses, anxiety, and neurodevelopmental differences.

•  Sensory Integration training (e.g., postgraduate modules) and/or recognised competency frameworks.

•  Knowledge of neurodevelopmental profiles (e.g., autism, ADHD, DLD, FASD) and how these can interact with trauma/attachment and sensory processing.

•  Ability to provide accessible psychoeducation to families and partner professionals.

Qualifications and Education

   •Degree/diploma in Occupational Therapy.

   •     Current HCPC registration as an Occupational Therapist. Postgraduate       training/qualification relevant to sensory integration, sensory processing or advanced   paediatric OT practice.

•  Evidence of continuing professional development (Essential)

•  Training in a range of therapeutic modalities e.g. DDP, Theraplay, BUSS model, Sensory Attachment Intervention (Essential)

Skills and Abilities

   •         Experience of working within an MDT and contributing an OT perspective to shared          formulations and plans.

•Leadership and support skills

•Group work skills

•A reflective and empowering approach

•Strong application of theory

•Creativity and innovative approach to service delivery

•A commitment to the voice of children and families

Accountability

•Consultant Clinical Psychologist

•Responsible for maintaining own professional standards

•Responsible for delivering practice within the policies and standards of the charity

Behaviours

•Demonstrates commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of role at      all times.

•Contributes to an open and honest culture

•Supports, encourages, and motivates colleagues.

•Encourages challenge, creativity and innovation.

•Leads by example.

•Values transparency and consistency.

•Understands the role of individual and collective accountability.

•Actively contributes to Adoption UK’s mission.

•Has a clear understanding of other colleagues’ roles and responsibilities

•Shares skills and knowledge.

•Promotes Cross Functional team working.

•Offers outstanding service to members.

•Takes pride in Adoption UK and promotes its values in all interactions with external stakeholders.

•Identifies and uses the most appropriate form of communication.

•Communicates clearly, seeking clarity when unclear and valuing the opinion of others.

•Treats colleagues and other stakeholders with respect, honesty, fairness and courtesy

•Is responsive to colleagues, third party professionals and service users.

•Takes pride in own development.

•Enthusiastic and committed to achieving high standards and meeting agreed objectives.

•Takes an active interest in recognising professional and personal development needs and priorities within Adoption UK.

This role profile is a guide to the nature of the work required and may involve other such duties as deemed necessary by the Organisation. It is not wholly comprehensive or restrictive. The role profile will be reviewed with the post-holder at significant points for the Organisation.

Postholder is expected to abide by all organisational policies, codes of conduct and practice, and to work within a framework of equal opportunities and anti-discriminatory practice.