At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children and young people in care through therapeutic and emotional interventions.
- Company: Join Bristol City Council's dynamic Therapeutic Support Service team.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Regular training and development opportunities in a diverse and inclusive workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of attachment theory and experience in therapeutic work required.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for someone to join Bristol Therapeutic Support Service (BTSS) as a Therapeutic Support Practitioner. There are five specialist teams in BTSS that work together to improve outcomes for children and young people in care, returning home and leaving care. The service provides support at key stages of a child or young person's journey, helping to promote stability, strengthen relationships, and reduce unnecessary moves for children. Trauma informed interventions using relationship-based approaches, that focus on the individual needs of the children, young people, carers and families are at the centre of the support offered.
Our overarching goal is promoting and achieving stability and strengthening relationships for children in foster care, children’s residential homes and returning to family. The work of the team is varied. It involves providing therapeutic, emotional, educational, practical and parenting support to children and carers both on an individual, carer/child and group basis.
This role is within the Short-Term Stability Team within BTSS, which provides therapeutic support to carers and children to promote stability. You will work with foster carers to support them in providing therapeutic care to children and young people. This will include offering therapeutic consultations, group work and training. You will work alongside the support network around the carer and child/young person. You will also work alongside BTSS skills coaches, who do direct work with children and young people in care. The Short-Term Stability Team offers focused, goal oriented therapeutic work to increase stability for children and young people in care.
This post will suit someone with a sound knowledge of attachment and the impact of developmental trauma and a background in therapeutic work. You will be a dynamic and creative individual who enjoys a challenge and works well in a team. This service is an exciting and enjoyable place to work. We have a strong culture of learning and support and you will receive regular supervision, training and development opportunities.
Please note that this role is subject to an enhanced DBS check.
At Bristol City Council, we go that extra mile for our people; we offer a work environment which is fast moving and supportive, giving you the chance to use your skills and develop new ones within a high profile organisation. Join us and you’ll receive a generous rewards package including flexible working and flexi-time, membership of the Local Government Pension scheme, and a generous annual leave allowance. In addition, you’ll be working in a supportive environment where you’ll have the chance to make Bristol a better place and contribute to its future.
We're a Disability Confident employer which means we value recruiting and retaining disabled people. Any job applicants who consider themselves to be disabled and meet the essential criteria in the Person Specification are guaranteed an interview. We'll make reasonable adjustments throughout the interview process and provide continued workplace support throughout your career.
Bristol City Council strives to have a workforce that reflects the communities it serves, we are therefore committed to ensuring diversity in our hiring process. We welcome, develop and promote people from all sections of the community. We particularly welcome applications from Black and racially minoritised and disabled candidates who are currently under-represented within this Service of Bristol City Council. Appointments will be made on merit.
Therapeutic Support Practitioner employer: Bristol City Council
Bristol City Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. As a Trauma-Informed Recovery Navigator, you will benefit from flexible working hours and generous leave allowances, allowing you to balance your personal and professional life while making a meaningful impact in the community. Join us in a role that not only fosters collaboration with various services but also empowers you to contribute to the recovery journey of individuals facing complex challenges.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Therapeutic Support Practitioner
✨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 Bristol City Council. 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 Bristol City Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Therapeutic Support Practitioner
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 Bristol City Council:Take some time to research Bristol City Council 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 Bristol City Council
✨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 Bristol City Council's values and approach.
