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Beechwoodcancercare

Counselling Team Leader

Beechwoodcancercare, Cheshire, Connecticut, us, 06410


Beechwood Cancer Care Centre, with additional travel across the borough

Salary Scale

30 Hours

About The Charity

Beechwood is a Charity based in Stockport, established in 1990 to support people from across the Northwest affected by cancer.Our team of professionals support with the shock of diagnosis and the emotional effects of treatment, complemented by a wide variety of practical support – not only for the person directly affected but family and friends too.The Charity’s services are free of charge at point of need, and we offer a package of support tailored to suit the individual, including one-to-one counselling, and a host of ‘wrap around’ holistic therapies, workshops, support groups or simply a coffee and a chat.In addition, we:Support those with a diagnosis, before, during or after medical treatmentHelp children come to terms with the illness or loss of a parent or family memberHelp carers cope with the difficulties and uncertainty that the illness of a loved one can bringSupport clients who are ready to move on, exploring on-going support optionsProvide guidance and support to those ready to return to workProvide one-to-one support, facilitated groups and peer support groups to help the bereavedPurpose of Job

The Counselling Team Leader will be a direct line of support for the counsellors for any professional counselling queries (from the Charity’s Counsellors and client support practitioners) and will ensure all professional guidelines and protocols are being adhered to, including good safeguarding practices.The Counselling Team Leader will ensure counsellors are motivated and will encourage professional development and discussions to further skills and to enhance the services offered by Beechwood. Travel across the borough/communities (and occasionally Greater Manchester/Cheshire) will be required within the scope of this role.In addition to being the department’s leader and supervisor for the Client Services Team, the role will ensure all direct client work is monitored and that feedback is evaluated, with any areas for improvement or development opportunities being brought to the attention of the Management Team.This post is subject to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check at an enhanced level.Key Duties and Responsibilities

Counselling FunctionSupervise the counsellors and practitioners working with clientsLiaise with the Charity’s department leads in terms of team performance, client feedback and ideas to improve or develop the counselling functionEnsure all counselling and client services administration is attended to, and that counsellors are following good practice in terms of record keeping.Undertake audits, as requested, to ensure the quality of counselling provision.To undertake a quarterly dip-sample audit of counselling notes to ensure they meet regulatory/legal requirements.Ensure the service holds accurate client records and archives files to enable monitoring and evaluation and in line with GDPR requirements.To understand at all times the current caseload of each counsellor and review caseloads in 1:1 supervision.Undertake own direct work with service users, leading by example and sharing good practice.Chair Team Meetings and facilitate ‘teach downs’ and ‘blue sky’ sessions to encourage the sharing of good practice and innovation.Confidently carry out the role of one of the Charity’s Safeguarding Leads and ensure safeguarding governance is adhered to.To actively promote Beechwood to external stakeholders, including attending relevant multi-agency meetings and information sessions or presentations regarding the Charity.To lead the Counselling Team through:Regular and consistent one-to-one supervisionDaily and routinely be aware of counselling appointments and annual leave to ensure the smooth running of day-to-day counselling service provision.Assist the induction of new counselling staff, students or counselling volunteers.Identify individual training and development needs and discuss with line manager to progress.Undertaking annual appraisals.Assist in promoting and empowering professional development through the appropriate delegation of relevant duties and responsibilities.General Responsibilities:To be available to work outside of usual working hours/days, where required e.g. when delivering a wellbeing group or event.To receive supervision in line with BACP/other recognised professional counselling body guidelines and to take responsibility for personal development and progress of individual training needs.To monitor the client appointment system and database, ensuring best use of capacity, productivity and client experience.To provide information and data (on the above) to the Management Team on a weekly basisTo monitor case load numbers of the counselling team, ensuring discharges and new referrals are allocated appropriately.To carry out all other reasonable tasks as directed.To promote the efficient and effective operation of the counselling service through:Ensuring good communication pathways with all team members, instilling a challenge and support culture.Attending to administration issues in relation to the counselling service.Review all counselling documentation annually (or at time of change within the service/Charity), ensuring it remains up to date and compliant, advising of any updated/edits required.This is not an exhaustive list of the duties that may need to be undertaken. It may be necessary to undertake other duties to fulfil the objectives of the Charity.Person Specification

ExperienceCompetent and experienced qualified counsellorExperience of leading or managing a teamExperience of working in a charityExperience of implementing and upholding quality standardsAwareness of counselling good practice and professional guidelinesExperience of reviewing and updating working documents and relevant policiesExperience of working with both adults and childrenSkills and AptitudeExcellent interpersonal, communication and engagement skillsCompetent in Microsoft Office ApplicationsAble to convey messages clearlyAbility to demonstrate empathy with clients and be considerate of their needsAbility to inspire, empower, enthuse and motivate othersAbility to deal with information in a confidential manner and respond with sensitivityFlexible and non-judgemental approach to the Charity’s service usersGeneralGood command of English (spoken and written)Willingness to work outside of regular office hours/days occasionally, and to attend/facilitate new client support groups, workshops and eventsA team player, who supports the ethos of the CharityA full, clean UK driving licence and use of a carQualificationsMinimum Level 4 Diploma in Counselling or psychotherapyBACP Accredited or equivalent professional bodyGeneral supervision and/or counselling supervision trainingSafeguarding and/or safeguarding lead experienceGood level of basic education, particularly maths and EnglishWe acknowledge the unique contribution that all Beechwood employees and clients can bring to our organisation in terms of their culture, race, gender, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital status, nationality, age, religion or belief, disability, or history of mental health.SafeguardingBeechwood is committed to safeguarding and protecting the welfare of vulnerable adults, children and young people; as such, all staff and volunteers must share this commitment and undertake safeguarding training relative to the role.Disclosure & BarringA satisfactory check will need to be received prior to commencement of employment and for some roles, an enhanced check.Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DLS)Where relevant to the role, the post-holder will need to have an awareness of DLS

(training will be provided).GeneralAll employees are expected to be competent with the use of technology and information systems and understand their duties and responsibilities regarding the appropriate use of personal data including sensitive personal data (relative to role).All appointments and promotions are based on merit and no job applicant or employee will be treated unfairly or discriminated against.This role description is a guide and is not exhaustive. As such, it will be reviewed periodically to ensure it continues to meet the needs of the organisation.Apply Now

Job Vacancy ApplicationIntroductionEmployment HistoryEducation & TrainingSupporting StatementReferencesDeclarationsThe information you give on this form will allow Beechwood to assess your suitability for employment at the Charity.For further information contact

0161 476 0384Please note that due to the number of applications we receive, we may be unable to respond to all applicants. Please assume that your application has been unsuccessful if you do not hear from us within 2 weeks of the vacancy closing date.

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