At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide counselling and support for young people aged 8-24 from diverse backgrounds.
- Company: YMCA DownsLink Group, a leading charity for children and young people.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working hours, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people while promoting mental wellbeing.
- Qualifications: Graduate or Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling, BACP accreditation preferred.
The predicted salary is between 34475 - 34475 £ per year.
35.5 hours per week / £34,475 per annum, pro rata / permanent / working pattern to be confirmed (can be discussed at interview).
YMCA DownsLink Group is the leading charity for children and young people across Sussex and Surrey. We offer safe homes, mental health support and trusted advice. We believe that every child and young person has the right to be safe, heard and to shape their own future. We work alongside them to make that happen. We are here for children and young people, many of whom face multiple challenges and need our support.
Our Values – we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections – guide us in all our actions.
We have an exciting opportunity for a qualified and experienced Counsellor to join our Children and Young People (CYP) Wellbeing Service in Brighton & Hove. In this role, you will provide culturally responsive assessments, counselling (both face‑to‑face and online), and group work for children and young people aged 8–24 from Black, mixed heritage and Global Majority backgrounds. You will create safe, inclusive spaces where young people feel heard, understood and supported to explore their wellbeing.
Alongside this, you will contribute to wider service delivery by supporting assessments and therapeutic interventions for young people from all backgrounds, helping ensure a flexible and responsive service. You will also play an active role in triaging referrals, working collaboratively across the CYP service to promote equitable and timely access to support.
A key part of the role is building meaningful relationships with Global Majority-led and community organisations, helping strengthen partnerships across the city. You’ll also share your expertise with colleagues, supporting inclusive practice, co‑production, and equitable approaches to service design, recruitment and delivery.
Occupational Requirement Due to the nature of this role and the needs of the children and young people we support, this position is subject to an occupational requirement under Schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010. We are seeking a practitioner who is from a Black, mixed heritage, or Global Majority background. This requirement is a proportionate means of achieving the legitimate aim of providing culturally responsive, representative, and effective mental health support.
This role plays a key part in ensuring that young people from Black, mixed heritage and Global Majority backgrounds can access support that reflects their lived experience, identity, and cultural context.
Qualifications, experience and knowledge You will hold a Graduate or Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling or Psychotherapy (minimum two years), alongside BACP accreditation (or eligibility for accreditation) or registration with a relevant professional body. You will bring experience of working with children and young people aged 8–24 with mental health needs, including delivering evidence‑based, low‑intensity interventions. You are a confident and collaborative team player, comfortable working under supervision and within a multidisciplinary setting. You will have strong safeguarding knowledge, the ability to run groups or structured activities, and be able to communicate clearly and sensitively, both verbally and in writing.
You will have experience of supporting children and young people from mixed heritage or Global Majority backgrounds, with an understanding of the importance of culturally responsive practice. Knowledge of, or experience working alongside, local statutory and voluntary services will be important in helping young people access the support they need.
Above all, you will be able to work ethically and effectively with children and young people within a time‑limited framework, building trust, promoting resilience, and supporting positive outcomes.
PLEASE NOTE: We are unable to provide work permits or visa sponsorship for this role, so applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.
An inclusive workplace: We are committed to policies and practices of equity, diversity, and inclusion and to supporting our people to make sure our culture is consistent with this commitment.
Accessibility: If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact.
YMCA DLG requires all staff and volunteers to be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and to respond proactively to safeguarding concerns. Successful applicants will undergo a thorough background screening process, conducted by an accredited third‑party provider. This includes an Enhanced DBS check (with Children’s and Adults’ Barred Lists) as well as comprehensive reference and activity check.
Wellbeing Counsellor Global Majorities Specialist in Hove employer: Totalwellnessacupuncture
YMCA DownsLink Group is an exceptional employer dedicated to supporting children and young people across Sussex and Surrey. With a strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, we foster a collaborative work culture that empowers our staff to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those we serve. Our focus on professional development and building partnerships within the community ensures that employees have ample opportunities for growth while working in a supportive and inclusive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Wellbeing Counsellor Global Majorities Specialist in Hove
✨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 Totalwellnessacupuncture. 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 Totalwellnessacupuncture.
We think you need these skills to ace Wellbeing Counsellor Global Majorities Specialist in Hove
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 Totalwellnessacupuncture:Take some time to research Totalwellnessacupuncture 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 Totalwellnessacupuncture
✨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 Totalwellnessacupuncture's values and approach.
