This is an opportunity to make a genuine difference. You’ll work alongside individuals to understand their strengths, interests and ambitions, helping them move towards work that is right for them — while also building strong relationships with local employers to create inclusive employment opportunities.

You’ll use the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) approach, an evidence-based model that places each person’s goals and aspirations at the heart of their journey into work.

No previous IPS experience? No problem. Full training will be provided. What matters most is your ability to build trust, work positively with people and employers, and help individuals recognise and achieve their potential.

What you’ll do

As an IPS Employment Specialist, you’ll:

• Manage a caseload of people with mental health support needs who are motivated to start or return to work
• Deliver personalised employment support in line with the eight principles of the Individual Placement and Support model
• Work towards the standards set out within the IPS Fidelity Scale
• Build positive, supportive and trusting relationships with clients
• Help people identify their strengths, skills, interests, experience and employment aspirations
• Complete vocational profiles and agree realistic, personalised action plans
• Support clients with job searches, CVs, applications, interview preparation and career development
• Identify suitable employment opportunities through tailored job searching and direct engagement with local employers
• Explore both advertised vacancies and opportunities within the hidden job market
• Develop strong relationships with employers and promote inclusive recruitment practices
• Help employers understand workplace support needs and reasonable adjustments
• Explore options such as job carving where this could help create a suitable employment opportunity
• Provide ongoing in-work support to both clients and employers once employment has been secured
• Work collaboratively with healthcare professionals, referral partners, colleges, training providers and other local organisations
• Maintain accurate records and provide clear evidence of client progress and outcomes
• Work independently within the community while remaining a valued and active member of the wider team

What you’ll bring

We’re looking for someone who is person-centred, motivated and passionate about helping people achieve their potential.

You’ll ideally have:

• A degree-level qualification or equivalent relevant experience
• Experience supporting people with mental health needs, health-related needs or other barriers to employment
• An understanding of the challenges people with health support needs may experience when seeking or sustaining employment
• Experience in employability, health, social care, community services or the voluntary sector
• The ability to build respectful, trusting and productive relationships
• Strong communication and organisational skills
• Excellent record-keeping skills and attention to detail
• Confidence working independently and using your own initiative
• The ability to develop positive relationships with employers and promote employment opportunities
• A full driving licence and access to a vehicle

Experience or training in the Individual Placement and Support approach would be an advantage, but it isn’t essential. Full training will be provided to help you develop your IPS knowledge and skills.

Alternative travel arrangements and reasonable adjustments will be considered where appropriate.

Why this role matters

For someone experiencing mental health challenges, finding the right job can be life-changing. As an Employment Specialist, you’ll play a key role in helping people move beyond barriers, build confidence and achieve their ambitions.

You’ll have the opportunity to see the impact of your work first-hand — from helping someone take their first steps towards employment to supporting them to succeed and thrive once they’re in work.

If you’re passionate about people, believe in the power of meaningful employment and want a role where your work can make a real difference, we’d love to hear from you.