At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and enhance our Adult Counselling service for survivors of sexual violence.
- Company: Join Rape Crisis South London, a charity dedicated to meaningful change.
- Benefits: Be part of a transformative team with opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: We value diversity and encourage women from underrepresented backgrounds to apply.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of survivors while shaping organisational strategy.
- Qualifications: Qualified in counselling/psychotherapy with experience in trauma-informed practice.
Be Part of Meaningful Change. Rape Crisis South London (RCSL) is entering an exciting new chapter. With a new CEO, refreshed Senior Leadership Team, and an ambitious vision for the future, we are laying the foundations for a bold new organisational strategy.
We are now seeking an Interim Adult Counselling Clinical Lead to join our Adult Counselling Team at this pivotal time on a Fixed Term basis. As a specialist charity supporting survivors of sexual violence across twelve South London boroughs, we provide counselling, group therapy, advocacy, prevention education, and professional training. With an annual income of approximately £4 million, we are growing and strengthening our infrastructure to better serve survivors and communities.
About the Role
This is a key leadership role providing clinical, operational, and strategic oversight of our Adult Counselling service. You will play a central role in ensuring safe, effective and high‑quality support for survivors, while driving continuous improvement and contributing to organisational strategy.
What You’ll Do
- Lead the clinical delivery and governance of the Adult Counselling service
- Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
- Oversee risk, safeguarding, and complex case management
- Manage, support, and develop a multidisciplinary team
- Drive service improvements through data, insight and evaluation
- Contribute to strategic planning and service development
- Manage budgets and ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks
- Represent RCSL externally and build strong partnerships
About You
You are a compassionate, experienced clinical leader with a strong commitment to feminist, trauma‑informed practice.
Person Specification
- Qualification in counselling/psychotherapy and membership of a recognised UK professional body (e.g. BACP, UKCP)
- Significant experience supporting survivors of sexual violence
- Minimum 600 hours post‑qualification supervised practice
- Strong safeguarding and risk management expertise
- Experience of leading teams and managing services
- Accredited membership
- Clinical supervision qualification
- Experience within the VAWG sector
- Additional language skills
What You Bring
- Deep understanding of trauma‑informed practice and the impact of sexual violence
- Strong leadership, decision‑making and communication skills
- A commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion
- The ability to foster a safe, supportive and high‑performing team culture
Safeguarding and Safer Recruitment
Rape Crisis South London is committed to safeguarding survivors and service users. The post holder will contribute to maintaining the organisation’s safeguarding standards. This includes:
- Promoting the safety and wellbeing of children, young people and adults at risk
- Identifying and reporting safeguarding concerns
- Following organisational safeguarding policies and procedures
- Supporting a culture where everyone feels safe, respected and supported
Our safer recruitment processes include:
- Values-based interviews
- Verification of identity, qualifications and employment history
- Reference checks
- Enhanced DBS checks where required
- Safeguarding training and supervision
Equality, Feminist Commitment and Values
Intersectionality and Reasonable Adjustments. We recognise that experiences of sexual violence are shaped by intersecting factors such as:
- Race and ethnicity
- Disability
- Sexuality and gender identity
- Socioeconomic background
- Immigration status
- Faith and culture
Our work is grounded in feminist principles, recognising sexual violence as both a cause and consequence of gender inequality. We centre survivor voices and prioritise empowerment, inclusivity and intersectionality.
Applicants are encouraged to let us know if they require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, such as:
- Alternative interview formats or timings
- Additional time for written tasks
- Accessible documentation
- Support relating to disability, neurodivergence or health needs
Learning and Development
As a charity undergoing transformation and growth, we welcome colleagues who are committed to continuous learning and professional development.
Interview Process
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview, conducted via MS Teams. Stage one: MS Teams with the Interim Head of Therapeutic Services and two other panel members. The whole process from advertisement to appointment may take up to 3 -4 weeks. Post holder will be required to undertake Enhanced DBS. The role will initially be open for one month (until filled). However, due to the urgent need for support, applications will be reviewed and interviews arranged on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged.
The interview will explore experience and approach to:
- Safeguarding
- Equality, diversity and inclusion
- Wellbeing and feminist practice
- Trauma-informed therapeutic work
- Leadership responsibilities relevant to the role
This post is open to women only (Schedule 9, Paragraph 1, Equality Act 2010). We particularly welcome applications from women underrepresented in leadership roles in the VAWG sector. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
How to apply
Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to in PDF format. Interview date(s): W/C 15th June 2026.
Thank you for your interest in RCSL. If you have not heard from us within one month of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.
Interim Adult Counselling Clinical Lead (Fixed Term – 12 months) Female only applicants employer: Rape Crisis South London (RCSL)
Rape Crisis South London (RCSL) is an exceptional employer dedicated to meaningful change, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises the well-being of both employees and survivors of sexual violence. With a strong commitment to professional development, RCSL provides opportunities for growth within a transformative charity environment, ensuring that staff are equipped with the skills and support needed to make a significant impact in the community. Located in South London, RCSL fosters a collaborative atmosphere where diverse voices are valued, making it an ideal place for passionate individuals to contribute to vital social change.
Contact Details:
Rape Crisis South London (RCSL) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Adult Counselling Clinical Lead (Fixed Term – 12 months) Female only applicants
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the sector, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research Rape Crisis South London, understand their mission, and think about how your experience aligns with their values. Practise answering common interview questions and be ready to discuss your approach to trauma-informed practice.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion! During interviews, let your commitment to supporting survivors shine through. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your dedication to feminist principles and equity in the VAWG sector.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a great way to reinforce your interest in the role and keep you top of mind for the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Adult Counselling Clinical Lead (Fixed Term – 12 months) Female only applicants
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the role. Highlight your relevant experience in counselling and leadership, and don’t forget to mention your commitment to trauma-informed practice. We want to see how you fit into our vision!
Showcase Your Passion:Let your passion for supporting survivors of sexual violence shine through in your application. Share personal experiences or insights that demonstrate your dedication to this important work. We love to see genuine enthusiasm!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read. Remember, we’re looking for specific examples of your skills and experiences, so don’t be shy about sharing them!
Apply Early!:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We review applications on a rolling basis, so the sooner you apply, the better your chances. Head over to our website and get your application in!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rape Crisis South London (RCSL)
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the role and the organisation's mission. Familiarise yourself with Rape Crisis South London’s values, especially around trauma-informed practice and feminist principles. This will help you align your answers with their goals during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your relevant experience in detail, particularly your work with survivors of sexual violence. Highlight specific examples that demonstrate your leadership skills, safeguarding expertise, and commitment to equity and inclusion. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the organisation's future plans, team dynamics, and how they measure success in their counselling services. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if the role is the right fit for you.
✨Be Yourself
Authenticity goes a long way. Be open about your passion for supporting survivors and your approach to leadership. Remember, they’re looking for someone who not only fits the qualifications but also shares their commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment.
