Support Session Coordinator – Eight Bells for Mental Health
Hours: 16 hours per week (Mon & Thu 09:30–16:00, Fri 10:00–13:00)
Location: The Friends Meeting House, Newbury (Parking available)
Salary: £15 per hour
Holiday: is 25 days per year (pro rata) = 10 days
Pension: 3 percent (Nest Scheme)
The Role
Are you a mental health professional who excels at creating safe, inclusive spaces? We are looking for an experienced Part-time Coordinator to lead the day-to-day operations of our well-established support sessions in Newbury.
Eight Bells is a member-led charity dedicated to supporting West Berkshire residents experiencing mental ill-health, isolation, and loneliness. This isn't just an administrative role; you will be the heartbeat of our sessions, providing a listening ear, facilitating wellbeing activities, and, most importantly, acting as the safeguarding lead to ensure our members are supported in a secure, professional environment.
Key Responsibilities
Session Leadership: Oversee the daily running of sessions, ensuring a welcoming and non-judgemental atmosphere for all members.
Safeguarding Lead: Take ownership of safeguarding protocols, identifying risks early and signposting members to prevent crisis.
Activity Coordination: Partner with members to plan events, trips, and wellbeing activities, liaising with sessional tutors for delivery.
Volunteer Management: Organise and lead our dedicated volunteer team to ensure seamless session delivery.
Data & Compliance: Maintain accurate records using Excel and Microsoft Forms, producing impactful reports for the Charity Manager.
Risk & Conflict Management: Draft and review written risk assessments and provide expert conflict resolution when required. (Training can be provided).
The Ideal Candidate
You'll need more than just empathy; we need a professional who can maintain firm boundaries while delivering high-quality support.
Mental Health Background: Proven experience working within mental health services and a deep understanding of the challenges our members face.
Safeguarding Expert: Sound knowledge of adult safeguarding policies and the ability to take the lead in complex situations.
Organisational Pro: Experience running groups, managing volunteers, and facilitating community events.
Tech-Savvy: Proficient in Microsoft 365 (especially Excel and Forms) with the ability to interrogate data for reporting.
Communicator: Excellent listening skills and the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders, from Trustees, Partners to members.
Self-Directed: Able to work with minimal support, multitask, and prioritise in a multifaceted community setting.
Candidate Journey and timelines:
Given the nature of the role and the responsibility we have to our members, the recruitment journey is extensive to ensure we get to know you and just as importantly, you get to know us
Timelines:
Shortlisting: Monday 23rd Feb
Screens: Wed 25th to Fri 27th Feb
On site assessment: w/c 2nd March
Assessment:
20 minute (Suitability screen on TEAMs)
60 minute interview - (Experience, motivation and values TEAMs)
2 hours on site assisting with group session (Technical assessment - RG14 5DS)
Why Join Eight Bells?
We offer the chance to make a tangible difference in the Newbury community. You'll be part of a supportive team (including a dedicated Charity Manager) focused on empowering our members to grow in confidence and social connection. It really is a special place and your contribution will make a BIG difference.
Please email me for more details or a chat about the role -