Children and young people's counsellor

We’re Hiring: Children and Young People’s Counsellor Organisation: Key Unlocking Futures Salary: £28,476 - £29,470 per annum (pro rata) Location: Agile working with travel across Lancashire Hours: 36.5 hours per week Contract: 6 months - Temporary / Fixed-Term DBS: Enhanced DBS required Help children and young people build brighter futures At Key Unlocking Futures, part of Progress Housing Group, we help people across Lancashire build better lives. For over 30 years, we’ve supported children, young people and families through difficult times with compassionate, practical services that make a real difference. Key now supports more than 10,000 people across Lancashire each year. We’re looking for a skilled and compassionate Children and Young People’s Counsellor to deliver short-term therapeutic support that improves emotional wellbeing, builds resilience and helps young people move forward with confidence. About the role You’ll work directly with children and young people who are facing emotional health, mental health and wellbeing challenges. Managing your own caseload, you’ll deliver therapeutic interventions, build trusted relationships and work closely with families, referral partners and other professionals to provide joined-up support. You’ll be responsible for: Managing a caseload of children and young people Assessing needs and delivering short-term therapeutic interventions Supporting emotional wellbeing and resilience Working with partner agencies Using Outcomes Stars and contributing to Early Help processes where needed Keeping accurate case records and maintaining confidentiality Following safeguarding procedures at all times What we’re looking for Degree/diploma in Counselling Studies or equivalent in CBT, Psychotherapy, Play Therapy or similar Experience supporting children and young people with diverse and complex needs Experience managing a varied caseload Strong knowledge of child development, BACP codes of practice and issues affecting young people today Ability to build strong, client-focused relationships Strong organisation skills and ability to work independently Access to a car for work travel Desirable: Working towards BACP accreditation or equivalent Experience in a multi-agency setting Knowledge of safeguarding, EHA and TAF procedure Experience using an electronic case management system Why join us? This is your chance to join an organisation with a strong social purpose, where your work will have a direct impact on the lives of children and young people. We’re proud to be the 2026 Spring North Charity of the Year and Impact Award winners, recognition of the difference our team makes every single day across Lancashire. What you’ll get in return: Competitive salary of £28,476 - £29,470 (pro rata) An initial 6-month contract with full time (36.5 hrs) or part time hours considered. There is a possibility the role will be extended past 6 months. A role within an established organisation with almost 30 years of helping individuals and families building a brighter future for themselves. A rewarding role with real purpose Supportive team environment Training and development opportunities The chance to be part of a trusted organisation changing lives across Lancashire How to apply If you’re passionate about supporting children and young people and want to make a genuine difference, we’d love to hear from you. Application Closing Date: Midnight Sunday 5 th July 2026 Interview Date: Friday 24 th July 2026 Inclusion matters here Key Unlocking Futures is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.