Volunteer with GCS

Gloucestershire Counselling Service (GCS) is a thriving charity providing training and counselling services to the communities of Gloucestershire.

Our headquarters are in the centre of Stroud which has been home to GCS since our inception in 1978.

We deliver counselling services both from our counselling rooms based around the county and remotely, as well as training in counselling skills and counselling qualifications.

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Volunteer with GCS

Volunteering work

Volunteer Opportunity: Qualified Counsellor (Inclusion Fund)
GCS is deeply committed to providing affordable and accessible counselling to all members of our community. We believe financial barriers should never prevent individuals from receiving necessary therapeutic support. Our Inclusion Fund exists specifically to bridge this gap, offering substantially reduced rates to clients who could not otherwise afford our standard fees.

We are seeking Qualified Volunteer Counsellors to play a vital role in this mission. By generously dedicating your expertise and time, you will directly support the mental wellbeing of individuals most in need, ensuring they receive the high-quality therapeutic support they deserve, regardless of their financial situation.

The Role:

As a Qualified Volunteer (Inclusion Fund), you will provide professional, high-quality counselling services to clients accessing GCS through this essential pathway.

Deliver qualified therapeutic counselling to individuals who rely on our Inclusion Fund for support.

Work with clients who may be experiencing complex and difficult situations, including those presenting with risk concerns and a history of trauma.

Maintain accurate and timely client records in line with GCS and professional body standards.

Uphold GCS’s commitment to safeguarding and ethical practice.

Who We Are Looking For

We are particularly keen to hear from individuals who:

Hold a recognised professional counselling qualification (e.g., Diploma or equivalent).

Are a member of a recognised professional body (e.g., BACP, UKCP) and adhere to their ethical framework.

Have proven experience and are comfortable working with complex client presentations, including trauma and risk.

Are passionate about accessible mental health care and supporting the most vulnerable in the community.

Commitment

We ask for a minimum commitment of at least one year to ensure consistency and stability for our clients.

Safeguarding and Compliance

GCS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children/vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

This post is subject to a DBS check/satisfactory criminal record check.

Satisfactory references will be required.

How to Apply

If you are a qualified counsellor ready to make a significant difference in the lives of those facing financial hardship, we encourage you to apply.

Application form here

Join us in making compassionate and professional counselling a reality for everyone.

Trustee vacancies

Trustee Treasurer
We seek board members with finance, marketing, or legal expertise. However, we also welcome candidates with a wide range of professional backgrounds and lived experiences. GCS is especially keen to hear from those who have direct experience with mental health challenges or who are connected to the diverse communities served by the charity.

Being a trustee is a fulfilling way to contribute to the wellbeing of your local community. As a trustee, you will:

Help set the charity’s strategic direction.

Oversee governance and financial accountability.

Support community mental health initiatives.

Trusteeship offers both personal and professional rewards, from developing new skills to making meaningful connections in the voluntary sector, therefor having a lasting, positive impact on society.

Download Recruitment Pack: Trustee Treasurer

Application Process: Please send a CV and cover letter stating why you are interested in applying for the role, how your skills and experience are relevant, how you can add value to the Board and any other relevant information.

Please send your application to: [email protected] by 31st January 2025.

We will shortlist candidates immediately after the closing date and then arrange an opportunity for them to meet with the Chair & CEO (most likely online).
Trustees
We seek board members with finance, marketing, or legal expertise. However, we also welcome candidates with a wide range of professional backgrounds and lived experiences. GCS is especially keen to hear from those who have direct experience with mental health challenges or who are connected to the diverse communities served by the charity.

Being a trustee is a fulfilling way to contribute to the wellbeing of your local community. As a trustee, you will:

Help set the charity’s strategic direction, ensuring it continues to deliver high-quality mental health services.

Use your knowledge and expertise to provide oversight and governance, ensuring financial health and accountability.

Join a network of trustees across Gloucestershire who support the vital work of the county’s charities, each addressing different causes but all working towards the common goal of improving lives.

Trusteeship offers both personal and professional rewards, from developing new skills to making meaningful connections in the voluntary sector, therefor having a lasting, positive impact on society.

Download Recruitment Pack: Trustee

Application Process: Please send a CV and cover letter stating why you are interested in applying for the role, how your skills and experience are relevant to the role, how you can add value to the Board and any other relevant information.

Please send your application to: [email protected] by 31st January 2025.

We will shortlist candidates immediately after the closing date and then arrange an opportunity for them to meet with the Chair & CEO (most likely online).