Job overview

Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust is recruiting for IPS Employment Specialists to join their Addictions team across Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes. This 18-month fixed-term role aims to help individuals who have received addiction support to find and sustain paid employment using the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model. The position offers training, skill development, and the opportunity to make a real difference in creating a more inclusive society.

  • Full time
  • Part time
  • Job share
  • Flexible working
  • Compressed hours
  • 37.5 hours per week

Role

The role is an IPS (Individual Placement and Support) Employment Specialist, which is a rewarding and dynamic position focused on supporting individuals who have received specialist support for their substance use. As an Employment Specialist, you will play a vital role in helping clients access and sustain meaningful employment, which is a crucial step in their recovery journey. You will be responsible for regularly meeting with clients to listen to their needs, offer support, and help them identify job opportunities that align with their skills and aspirations.

Responsibilities

  • Support clients to identify their best job match based on skills and aspirations
  • Assist with CV production and interview techniques
  • Advocate for clients by educating and engaging with employers
  • Source job opportunities through regular contact with local employers
  • Promote employment and raise expectations for service users
  • Support clients in managing their health at work
  • Break down barriers to employment for clients

The person

Essential:

  • Degree-level education OR relevant work experience in health and social care or employment sectors
  • Strong communication and persuasive skills
  • Excellent time management and organisational skills
  • Ability to build relationships with diverse individuals and engage employers
  • Experience working with people one-on-one
  • Experience building relationships with various partners/organisations
  • Commitment to learning and working within the IPS model
  • Basic word processing/computing skills

    • Desirable:

  • Experience working with people with mental health difficulties or similar client groups
  • Experience supporting people to obtain or keep work
  • Knowledge of benefits agency and employment-related benefits
  • Understanding of the IPS model and Equality Act 2010
  • Basic counselling and coaching skills