At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals with mental health challenges through compassionate listening and guidance.
- Company: Join Manchester Mind, a community-focused counselling service in the heart of Manchester.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, receive mentorship, and access ongoing training workshops.
- Other info: Flexible hours, supportive environment, and a commitment to equal opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your counselling skills.
- Qualifications: Currently enrolled in a recognised Counselling course with practical placement hours.
The predicted salary is between 31124 - 38040 £ per year.
Manchester Mind believes in the power of listening and of being heard, because better understanding of mental health benefits everyone. We are a community counselling service in the heart of Manchester. Our Counselling Service offers short-term interventions to support people aged 18+ when they are struggling with their mental health.
We offer a robust placement experience which includes a comprehensive induction and mandatory training along with ongoing workshops throughout the placement, a dedicated mentor and access to safeguarding support.
The criteria, skills and knowledge that are important to us are:
- Being currently enrolled on a Counselling course, which is at least two-year’s duration (over 400 hours), including course content to meet BACP recognition and including a requirement for placement counselling hours.
- Ability to work collaboratively and to create kind relationships with colleagues, partners, volunteers, staff and the people we work with that lead to people feeling accepted, understood and able to contribute.
- Have a good understanding of maintaining confidentiality and its limits with regards to reporting safeguarding concerns.
- Have passed a ‘Fitness to Practice’ assessment and have a certificate.
Manchester Mind is striving to be an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. Manchester Mind sees it as a positive advantage if you have experience of mental health issues and/or have used mental health services, or had experience of volunteering.
Volunteer Counsellor (Student Placement) in Manchester employer: Manchester Mind
Manchester Mind is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and enriching environment for aspiring Volunteer Counsellors. Located in the vibrant heart of Manchester, we provide a comprehensive placement experience that includes thorough training, ongoing workshops, and dedicated mentorship, ensuring that our volunteers are well-equipped to make a meaningful impact in the community while fostering their professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Counsellor (Student Placement) in Manchester
✨Get Involved in Local Mental Health Initiatives
Dive into your community by volunteering with local mental health organisations or support groups. It’s a fantastic way to build connections, gain hands-on experience, and show your dedication to the field.
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you're a student, tap into your university career services to find volunteering opportunities in therapy and counselling. Many universities have partnerships with local clinics and organisations looking for volunteers who are passionate about helping others.
✨Join Online Therapy Communities
Hop onto platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn to find groups dedicated to therapy and counselling. Engaging in discussions and sharing insights can make you more visible to those looking for volunteers, plus you’ll learn a ton along the way.
✨Keep an Eye on Local Events
Watch out for mental health awareness days or workshops happening in your area. These events can be goldmines for meeting professionals in the field, plus you might find out about volunteering openings directly from the organisers. Don’t hesitate to put yourself out there!
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Counsellor (Student Placement) in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:In the therapy and counselling fields, it’s super important to showcase any volunteer work or practical experience you've had. Whether it's work at a helpline, internship at a clinic, or even informal support roles, make sure to detail the skills you've gained that are relevant to the role at Manchester Mind.
Show Your Passion for Helping Others:In your application, let your genuine motivation for wanting to help others come through. Share personal stories or anecdotes that illustrate why you’re interested in volunteering in therapy and counselling—this helps us see your heart for it and connects your experiences to what Manchester Mind does.
Include Relevant Qualifications or Coursework:If you've completed any relevant courses, certifications, or even workshops related to counselling or therapy, don’t forget to mention them! Listing these in your CV can set you apart and shows that you're committed to developing your skills further, which is crucial in a volunteering role.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Organisation:When crafting your cover letter for the volunteer position at Manchester Mind, make sure to address why you specifically want to volunteer with us. Research our values, mission, and any current initiatives we’re involved in to create a personalised letter that demonstrates your fit and enthusiasm for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Manchester Mind
✨Know Your Techniques
Brush up on the specific therapy techniques or approaches you've studied. Whether it's CBT, person-centred therapy, or another method, being able to discuss these in the interview will show your understanding and preparation for the role at Manchester Mind.
✨Show Your Empathy
Since we’re aiming for a volunteer role in therapy or counselling, be prepared to showcase your interpersonal skills and empathy. Consider having examples ready that demonstrate how you've supported others in past situations, even in non-professional contexts. This can really resonate with the interviewers.
✨Discuss Your Motivation
With volunteer roles, employers at Manchester Mind will be keen to hear about your motivation. Be honest about why you want to volunteer in therapy and how this experience fits into your personal or career goals. This openness can make a strong impression!
✨Reflect on Ethical Dilemmas
Be ready to tackle questions about ethical dilemmas in therapy. The interview might involve scenario-based questions where they want to see how you prioritize client welfare and confidentiality. Think through a few examples so you can respond confidently during the chat!
