Job Description

PIPS Hope & Support is looking for a dedicated and empathetic Suicide Bereavement Support Practitioner to provide tailored emotional and practical support to individuals and families affected by suicide throughout the Southern Health & Social Care Trust area.

Suicide Bereavement Support Practitioner

You will work alongside an experienced practitioner to deliver specialist emotional and practical support to people bereaved by suicide across the Southern Health & Social Care Trust area. This is work that truly matters. It can be emotionally demanding and deeply rewarding, and calls for empathy, professionalism, and a trauma informed approach.

About PIPS Hope & Support

We provide trusted, tailored postvention services for those bereaved or affected by suicide. Over the past 20 years, in partnership with the Public Health Agency and SHSCT, we have developed a comprehensive, responsive network that includes:

One-to-one support for adults, offered in person, by phone or online from the earliest weeks of loss Specialist help for children and young people, plus guidance for parents, schools, and professionals Peer support groups in Lurgan and Newry, creating safe spaces to share and connect Organisational postvention for schools, workplaces, and community groups following a death by suicide Suicide bereavement awareness training to build knowledge and community resilience
Our practitioners provide flexible, person-centred support: helping people understand grief responses, build coping strategies, navigate inquests or media attention, and access further mental health or community services.

What we're looking for

Emotional resilience and the ability to support others through highly sensitive situations Relevant experience or qualifications in counselling, social care, mental health, or related fields Understanding of grief and the specific impacts of suicide bereavement Ability to work independently and as part of a team across community settings Commitment to compassionate, person-centered practice
Personal experience of suicide bereavement is welcome. We advise applicants allow at least 1-2 years since a significant personal loss and feel emotionally ready for this specialist role.

What we offer

Full induction, training, and mentoring Ongoing supervision and professional development Flexible working arrangements Supportive team environment

Employee benefits:

Casual dress, Workplace pension, Workplace Sickness pay scheme, Westfield Health Care package

How to apply

Email the following to edel@pipshopeandsupport.org with "Suicide Bereavement Support Practitioner" as the subject:

CV with full employment history, responsibilities, achievements, voluntary work, and relevant experience Cover letter (max 500 words) explaining why you want the role, what you will bring, and your preferred working days
Job Type: Part-time

Pay: 25,000.00-27,000.00 per year

Expected hours: 20 per week

Work Location: In person