We are recruiting for a Youth Counsellor to join our programme based in Kirkwall, Orkney.
Our Diploma-qualified and BACP-registered Counsellors work confidentially with young people up to age 25 and support with any issues they might be experiencing, such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, bullying, or substance misuse issues. Counselling can take place in-person, online, or by telephone, at times which suit the young person.
Due to funding, this role is a fixed term contract until 31/03/2026.
Main duties and responsibilities will include:
- Actively practising person-centred support and unconditional positive regard during counselling sessions
- Maintain a safe environment for clients, colleagues and others
- Liaise with external agencies such as social work, health services and other appropriate services as and when required
- Plan, implement and develop workshops or activities with the people we support
- Compile and review risk assessments
- Promote involvement by the people we support in the development of the service
You will have the autonomy to manage your own diary and arrange counselling sessions to meet the needs of the people we support, core hours are worked Monday to Friday however sessions can also be arranged over the weekend.
Our values make us who we are and define our actions and behaviours every day. We’d expect the post-holder to uphold and represent our organisation in a way that reflects our values and person-centred way of working.
Successful applicants will hold an accredited diploma and either be BACP registered or in the process of achieving this status. You will also have proven experience of supporting young people with a range of mental health and/or wellbeing issues within a statutory or voluntary organisation.
What you can expect from us...
- You will report to the Locality Manager.
- Your normal working hours are 6 per week, worked flexibly between Monday to Friday to meet the needs of the clients and service.
- Your core place of work will be Dunkirk, Shore Street, Kirwall. You may be required to work from such other place as the organisation may reasonably require from time to time.
- Annual leave entitlement of 210 hours (equivalent to 6 weeks) pro rata per year in the first year rising to 280 hours (equivalent to 8 weeks) pro rata per year in the second.
- You will be automatically enrolled into the People’s Pension in the month that you will complete 3-months of employment, provided you meet the auto-enrolment criteria
- Cycle to work scheme
- Option to purchase and sell annual leave
Full list of benefits is detailed in the job & person specification.