Meet Chris

Meet Chris Ducker – he’s a Senior Employment Specialist at South Yorkshire Housing Association (SYHA). We spent some time asking Chris a few questions about his role to gain a deeper insight into what life as a Senior Employment Specialist is like.

How long have you worked in IPS?

6 years

What drew you to the role?

The first thing that appealed to me was the chance to level the playing field around health challenges and employment for individuals and communities.

I am also passionate about diversity and inclusion and believe that everyone is entitled to the same level of support and access to resources (including employment) no matter what their current situation is.

From the initial interview itself I was inspired by the narrative of working alongside individuals with health challenges and coaching them so they can reach their full potential and gain paid competitive employment. This has had such a positive impact on me and how my life has panned out!

What were you doing before you started work in IPS?

Directly before starting at South Yorkshire Housing Association (SYHA), I was working as a Mental Health Recovery Support Worker for Sheffield Mind. Before, that I worked for Mencap, and prior to that I worked as a Branch Manager for Carphone Warehouse for 16 years.

You’ve had such varied experiences! Were there any transferable skills from your extensive background that you applied to your work in IPS?

There were loads of transferable skills! However, the main ones were relationship building, problem solving, active listening and empathic understanding. Conversation building, having unconditional positive regard and working towards KPIs are some other skills I apply to my work.

As someone working in IPS for the last 6 years, what’s the best bit about your day?

The best bit for me is meeting the diverse range of Clients I do and seeing the difference in them when they achieve the employment goals they set for themselves. I also like that no two days are ever the same – I enjoy the variety!

Finally, what advice would you give to someone considering applying to an Employment Specialist role?

Go for it – it is an amazing journey for both you and your clients! There are very few jobs where you can totally help someone structure their long-term future through employment, and this is one of them.

I would also say that with the increased focus being put on IPS as an employment model by the NHS and Government, it is a good time to get in on an exciting career prospect that is only going to grow bigger.