At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the creation of UCL's new Workplace Counselling Service and support staff wellbeing.
- Company: Join UCL, a globally recognised university committed to health and wellbeing.
- Benefits: 41 days holiday, pension scheme, gym access, and more perks.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for continuous improvement and innovation.
- Why this job: Shape a vital service that enhances workplace mental health and makes a real impact.
- Qualifications: Accredited counselling professional with leadership experience in workplace mental health.
The predicted salary is between 46260 - 56540 £ per year.
About us
At UCL, we believe that our people are our greatest strength. Our Workplace Health team plays a vital role in supporting the health, wellbeing and success of our diverse community, delivering high-quality occupational health and wellbeing services to thousands of staff. We're now investing in the next chapter of our wellbeing provision by establishing a new in-house Workplace Counselling Service. This is a unique opportunity to shape a service from the ground up within one of the world's leading universities, creating a safe, accessible and evidence-informed service that supports colleagues to thrive throughout every stage of their working lives.
About the role
As Workplace Counselling Lead, you'll have the opportunity to design, establish and lead UCL's new Workplace Counselling Service, creating a service that will make a lasting difference across a large, complex and globally recognised institution. Reporting to the Head of Workplace Wellbeing, you'll combine strategic leadership with clinical expertise to develop the service model, governance framework, referral pathways and operational standards from inception. You'll recruit and lead a dedicated team, oversee clinical governance and quality assurance, and ensure the service delivers safe, ethical and effective support to colleagues across the university. Alongside maintaining a clinical caseload, you'll work collaboratively with colleagues across Workplace Health, HR and wider UCL to develop evidence-based approaches that strengthen organisational wellbeing. You'll also help shape preventative initiatives, influence policy and practice, and use service insight and data to drive continuous improvement and innovation. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced staff counselling leader who is motivated by building services, influencing organisational culture and improving workplace mental health at scale.
Please note, this role is offered on a hybrid working basis with currently a minimum of 3-days onsite at our London Kings Cross office.
About you
You'll be an accredited counselling, psychotherapy or counselling psychology professional with substantial post-qualification experience delivering high-quality therapeutic interventions and supporting people experiencing a broad range of mental health needs within the workplace. You'll bring strong clinical judgement alongside a deep understanding of professional standards, safeguarding and ethical practice. Just as importantly, you'll be an experienced leader with the vision and confidence to establish a new service from the ground up. You'll have experience developing or transforming counselling or psychological wellbeing services in the workplace, creating governance frameworks, leading teams and embedding continuous improvement. You'll enjoy working collaboratively across a complex organisation, building trusted relationships with a wide range of stakeholders and providing expert guidance to managers and colleagues. You'll be comfortable balancing strategic thinking with hands-on clinical practice, using insight, data and innovation to continually enhance the service you lead.
If you're passionate about workplace mental health, excited by the opportunity to build a service with lasting impact, and want to help shape the future of wellbeing at UCL, we'd love to hear from you.
What we offer
Standard UCL Benefits:
41 days’ holiday (27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays, 6 closure days)
Option to purchase 5 additional days’ annual leave
Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
Cycle to work scheme, season ticket loan, and immigration loan
Relocation support for eligible posts
On-site nursery and gym
Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
Staff Support Service (employee assistance programme)
Discounted medical insurance
Full details: UCL Rewards and Benefits.
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We particularly encourage applications from candidates underrepresented in UCL’s workforce, including those from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled people, and – for Grade 9 and 10 roles – women.
Applicants should also familiarise themselves with UCL’s policies on: Prevention of Bullying, Harassment and Sexual Misconduct Policy and Personal Relationships Policy.
Workplace Counselling Lead in London employer: University College London
University College London is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, particularly within the Cultural and Community Engagement team at UCL East. As an apprentice, you will benefit from hands-on experience in communications while being supported by a team dedicated to your professional growth and development. With a focus on diversity and community involvement, this role offers unique opportunities to engage with various events and initiatives that make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Workplace Counselling Lead in London
✨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 University College London. 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 University College London.
We think you need these skills to ace Workplace Counselling Lead in London
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 University College London:Take some time to research University College London 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 University College London
✨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 University College London's values and approach.
