Suicide Bereavement Support Practitioner

You will be working alongside another experienced practitioner, this role offers the opportunity to make a real difference to those impacted by one of the most traumatic forms of loss. It is both emotionally demanding and deeply rewarding, requiring empathy, professionalism, and a trauma-informed approach.

At PIPS Hope & Support, we are proud of the trusted, tailored services we offer to people bereaved or affected by suicide. Over the past five years, we’ve developed a comprehensive, responsive postvention network in partnership with the Public Health Agency and SHSCT, including:

• One-to-one support for adults bereaved by suicide, offered in person, by phone or online from the earliest weeks of loss.
   
• Specialist support for children and young people, including individual interventions and guidance for parents, schools, and professionals.
   
• Peer support groups in Lurgan and Newry, providing a safe space for those with lived experience to share and connect.
   
• Organisational postvention, supporting schools, workplaces, and community groups following a suicide.
   
• Suicide bereavement awareness training, delivered by our practitioners to raise understanding and build community resilience.

Our practitioners provide flexible, person-centred support that may include helping clients understand their grief response, developing coping strategies, navigating inquests or media coverage, and signposting to additional mental health or community services.

What we're looking for

We’re looking for someone who:

• Is emotionally resilient and capable of supporting others through highly sensitive and traumatic experiences.
   
• Has relevant experience or qualifications in counselling, social care, mental health, or related fields.
   
• Understands the complexities of grief and the impact of suicide bereavement.
   
• Can work independently and as part of a team, delivering support in various community settings.
   
• Is committed to compassionate, person-centred practice.

Personal experience of suicide bereavement is welcomed. However, we recommend applicants allow at least one to two years to have passed since any significant personal bereavement and feel emotionally ready for this specialised role.

What we offer 

• Full induction, training, and mentoring.
• Ongoing supervision and professional development.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Supportive team environment.
• Employee benefits including casual dress, workplace pension, sickness pay scheme, and Westfield Health Care Package.

How to apply

To apply, please email the following documents to communications@pipshopeandsupport.org, using "Suicide Bereavement Support Practitioner" as the subject line:

1. Comprehensive CV – including full employment history, responsibilities, achievements, voluntary work, and relevant experience.
    
2. Cover Letter (Max. 500 words) – outlining why you want to join our team, what you bring to the role, and your preferred number of working days.

For further information or to discuss the role informally, contact communications@pipshopeandsupport.org