Counsellor (Maternity Cover)

## Opportunity Review: Counsellor - Empowering Student Mental Health This review provides an in-depth look at the Counsellor position within the University's esteemed Counselling and Mental Health team, designed to help prospective candidates assess its fit for their career aspirations.

The Counselling and Mental Health team is actively seeking an experienced and passionate Counsellor to join their dedicated full-time team. This role is integral to maintaining the high standard of support provided to students navigating emotional, psychological, and mental health challenges. If you are an experienced practitioner with a genuine commitment to student well-being, this opportunity offers a chance to make a significant impact within a dynamic academic environment.

Advantages for Prospective Candidates:

• Meaningful Impact: This role directly contributes to a positive mental health culture across the university. You will have the opportunity to support students from diverse backgrounds with a wide spectrum of needs, making a tangible difference in their academic journey and personal development.
• Collaborative and Integrated Team: You will be part of a fast-paced, integrated team working alongside Mental Health Practitioners and fellow Counsellors. This collaborative structure fosters a supportive environment and allows for the delivery of comprehensive care, including triage, one-to-one support, and small group interventions.
• Professional Growth and Development: The position offers ongoing professional development through in-house training and support. This is an excellent opportunity to refine your skills and expertise in student mental health within a structured and well-resourced setting.
• Generous Leave and Benefits: The role comes with a competitive annual leave allowance, starting at up to 36 days (including bank holidays and university closure days) and increasing to 41 days after five years of service. Additionally, you will benefit from a Staff Retail Benefits Scheme and confidential wellbeing support through an Employee Assistance Programme.
• Career Progression: The salary structure allows for annual incremental increases, with the potential to progress up to £40,497, subject to performance and university reward schemes.
• Supportive Work Environment: You will be joining a friendly, inclusive, and supportive team and workplace culture, fostering a positive and engaging professional experience.
• Job Share Consideration: While a full-time position, there is consideration for a job share arrangement, which may appeal to candidates seeking greater flexibility.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Experience Requirements: The role emphasizes the need for significant post-qualification experience in a high-intensity professional setting. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate a strong track record in supporting individuals with complex mental health needs.
• Challenging yet Rewarding: This is described as a challenging role, which implies a demanding workload and exposure to complex cases. However, this is balanced by the inherent rewards of making a substantial positive contribution to student welfare.
• Visa Sponsorship: Please note that this position does not meet the minimum salary requirements for UK Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Therefore, applicants who require sponsorship for employment in the UK cannot be considered for this role.
• Employment Structure: For candidates not already employed by the University of Worcester, employment will be through Uniworc Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary. This involves automatic enrollment into the Aviva FlexHE defined contribution pension scheme, subject to eligibility.

This Counsellor position presents a compelling opportunity for experienced professionals dedicated to enhancing student mental health. The combination of impactful work, a supportive team, excellent benefits, and opportunities for growth makes it a role worth serious consideration for those looking to advance their career in a vital area of student support.