At a Glance
- Tasks: Support mental health initiatives in schools, delivering workshops and interventions for young people.
- Company: Join Barnardo's, a leading charity dedicated to improving children's lives.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and supportive work environment.
- Other info: Great opportunity for career growth in mental health support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children and families while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: BTEC higher diploma or equivalent experience in working with children and young people.
We have an exciting opportunity to offer a new role as an Assistant Education Mental Health Practitioner in our South Cumbria Barrow and South Lakes locality team. This will involve working in schools in Barrow, Dalton, Millom, Ulverston, Kendal and surrounding areas.
In line with the government's priority to increase access and availability of mental health and wellbeing support for children and young people, opportunities have arisen for 1 Assistant Education Mental Health Practitioner in South Cumbria. The postholders will be supporting the MHST's provision of a high-quality service to students (and their families) experiencing mild to moderate mental health difficulties.
The South Cumbria locality MHST currently works with 22 education settings which include 21 secondary schools, 2 higher education colleges, 3 special education schools and 1 pupil referral unit (PRU) across the community. However, with an additional 48 primary schools in September 2026.
Role Summary
The post holder will work alongside Educational Mental Health Practitioners (EMHPs) and Senior Practitioners who are trained in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) through direct delivery of evidence-based interventions to support the recovery of young people referred to the service. The post holder will deliver whole school approach sessions to children and young people. This work will be in accordance with clinical governance processes and professional standards.
You will support and provide a high-quality service to children and young people (and their families). You will not be responsible for a caseload but will support delivery of evidenced based emotional wellbeing activities to children, young people and their families, as well as support education staff under supervision.
This role will involve contributing to locating, preparing and utilising resources for whole school approach. This may involve facilitating school assemblies or small groups using whole school approach resources. You would also support with collecting experience and outcomes feedback for the team.
You will be well supported with appropriate supervision and CPD. You will then be well placed to apply for the trainee EMHP roles should this development be of interest.
Qualifications
- Essential: BTEC higher diploma or Foundation degree in relevant areas (children and young people -CYP) or equivalent skills/knowledge and experience of a minimum of 2 years.
Experience
- Essential: Experience working with CYP/Families; Delivery of mental health/wellbeing advice to support CYP and their families.
- Desirable: A minimum of two years' experience working with CYP/Families; Experience in delivering training/groups; Experience of working with an educational establishment or childcare setting/or in children's mental health; Experience in supporting service development.
Knowledge and Skills
- Essential: Understanding of mental health and emotional wellbeing issues that impact children, young people and their families.
Working for Barnardo's
Barnardo's has been providing services to some of the most vulnerable children across the UK for over 150 years. We work in partnership with children's social care and health partners enabling the delivery of integrated health and social care services in a number of areas. We recognise that to really transform children's life chances, they need sustained interventions that meet the diversity of their needs and that participation and co-production must be a key component of any service.
If you enjoy pushing the boundaries of what works; working closely with other agencies to innovate and create; have the clinical expertise to lead on this project and want to work with children and young people and their families to deliver services that truly meet their needs, then we would like to hear from you.
Interviews will be face to face and held at the Barrow base on 11th September 2026. Candidates who are successful in gaining an interview will be asked to prepare a short, five-minute presentation on how they will deliver workshops in schools with children and young people alongside other practitioners in the team.
Mental Health Practitioner in Carlisle employer: Barnardos
Barnardo's is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a positive impact on children's lives. With a strong focus on professional development and a supportive, values-driven culture, employees are empowered to grow in their roles while working collaboratively with diverse teams. Located in a community-oriented environment, Barnardo's offers flexible working arrangements and prioritises inclusivity, making it a rewarding place for passionate Social Workers to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mental Health Practitioner in Carlisle
✨Connect Through Professional Networks
Join associations related to therapy and counselling, like the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). They often have job boards, events, and forums where you can meet potential employers and like-minded professionals. Being active in these spaces can give you a significant edge.
✨Show Up at Local Mental Health Events
Look for workshops, seminars, and conferences focused on mental health in your area. Not only can you learn valuable insights, but you can also network with professionals who might be aware of full-time opportunities, like the ones at Barnardos. Plus, showing your passion for the field in person can leave a lasting impression.
✨Utilise Online Platforms Tailored to Counselling
Websites like TherapyJobs or Indeed specifically cater to therapy professionals. Make sure to check these regularly for new listings, and consider setting up alerts to stay ahead of the game. Plus, applying directly through these platforms can sometimes give you better visibility.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re recently graduated or still in school, don't forget to tap into your university's career resources. They often have exclusive listings for full-time positions and can help you refine your interview skills. Plus, they might connect you with alumni who’re already working at places like Barnardos.
We think you need these skills to ace Mental Health Practitioner in Carlisle
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Qualifications:Make sure to showcase any relevant qualifications you've completed, such as a degree in psychology or counselling certifications. This is super important in the therapy and counselling field, so don’t skip over these details in your CV.
Showcase Your Empathy Skills:In your cover letter, it's essential to demonstrate your empathy and communication skills, which are key in therapy. Share specific examples from your previous experiences where you've effectively helped someone through a tough time—this will make your application stand out.
Demonstrate Your Continued Learning:We love seeing candidates who are committed to ongoing professional development. Mention any workshops, seminars, or additional training you’ve attended recently. This not only boosts your CV but shows your passion for the field.
Personalise Your Application for Barnardos:Take some time to research Barnardos and reflect this understanding in your application. Explain why you’re interested in working with them specifically and how your values align with their approach—this personal touch can make all the difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Barnardos
✨Show Your Empathy and Communication Skills
In therapy and counselling, it's all about how well you connect with others. Be ready to share examples of how you've demonstrated empathy, active listening, and non-verbal communication in past experiences. Your ability to create rapport with clients is key, so let that shine through!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face some scenario-based questions that assess your practical skills in dealing with clients. Think of various client situations or challenges you've encountered or could encounter. Practice how you would respond, ensuring you highlight your problem-solving abilities and therapeutic techniques.
✨Highlight Your Continuing Education
Being in a full-time role in therapy means you need to stay updated with the latest techniques and theories. Mention any professional development courses you've taken recently, or plans you have for ongoing education. This shows that you’re committed to growth in your field and eager to help your clients with the best approaches.
✨Finesse Your Personal Statement
In therapy, your personal statement is a chance to showcase who you are beyond your qualifications. Tailor it to not just highlight your credentials but also your passion for helping others. Share personal stories or insights that led you to this profession, reinforcing why you'd be a great fit for Barnardos's values and approach.
