As part of our research project into the feasibility of counselling in care homes, we're looking for three BACP members to provide counselling to residents in three care homes in Coventry, Warwickshire and Northamptonshire.

There's currently little counselling provision in care homes, despite high rates of depression and antidepressant prescribing for residents, and high turnover and low morale of staff. Our research project aims to provide proof of concept of how counselling could be implemented.

The role

The successful applicants will be employed on a contract for service basis for 16 weeks, starting in April 2020. You'll be paid £80 for up to two and a half hours a week, usually consisting of two client sessions and associated administration time, as well as support and training for care home staff.

You'll need to attend preparatory training for working within a care home and with clients who may have cognitive impairment. This free training will take place in March 2020 and can be counted towards your CPD. 

Free supervision will also be provided via skype on a one to one basis and as a group.

Requirements

You will need:

Essential

  • a qualification in counselling and full BACP membership
  • at least three years’ post-qualifying experience
  • experience of working with older adults, preferably within a care home setting
  • knowledge of safeguarding guidance and legislation, and experience of adhering to safeguarding policies and procedures
  • to be able to travel to your allocated care home weekly
  • a valid disclosure and barring service (DBS) certificate
  • evidence of Mental Capacity Act training

Desirable: 

  • experience of working with vulnerable clients, specifically individuals with cognitive impairment such as dementia and people who may lack capacity
  • experience of working within a health or social care environment as part of a wider team of professionals
  • experience of delivering workshops and training
  • experience of providing support to other professionals, for example as a supervisor

To apply

To apply for this role, please send a CV and cover letter detailing your suitability to contracting@bacp.co.uk by 7 January 2020.

Related articles