Ips employment specialist jobs

Make a real difference every day

At Rethink Mental Illness, we believe that everyone severely affected by mental illness deserves the opportunity to live a fulfilling life — and having meaningful employment can be a crucial part of that journey.

We’re looking for an IPS Employment Specialist to join our East Kent IPS Service covering Thanet, Folkestone, Hythe & Romney Marsh, Canterbury, Dover, Deal and Ashford. You’ll work one‑to‑one with people who want to find or return to paid employment, helping them identify their goals, build confidence, and secure roles that align with their skills and aspirations.

This is a Part Time (21 Hours) role with a salary of £14726.95 pro rata.

This is a rewarding, dynamic role where no two days are the same. You’ll work in the community, meet people where they are, and build strong relationships with employers and local partners to open real opportunities within the hidden labour market.

What you’ll do

As an Employment Specialist, you will:

• Work alongside individuals to understand their employment goals and create personalised vocational plans.
• Support people to find and keep paid work that reflects their strengths, interests and ambitions.
• Build and maintain relationships with employers, identifying opportunities and advocating for reasonable adjustments where needed.
• Provide in‑work support to help individuals thrive in their roles.
• Collaborate with colleagues across the IPS team and local services to ensure consistent, recovery‑focused support.
• Promote the value of employment in mental health recovery across your allocated East Kent area.
• Maintain effective records, manage referrals, and contribute to the smooth running of the service.

What you’ll bring

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has experience supporting people into employment or helping others overcome barriers to work.
• Understands mental health challenges and has experience in social care, support services or community-based roles.
• Can build positive relationships with a wide range of people, including employers, colleagues and service users.
• Is empathetic, proactive and comfortable working independently across a dispersed geography.
• Is organised, flexible and able to respond calmly to unexpected challenges.
• Has strong awareness of risk management, safeguarding and confidentiality.
• Holds — or is working towards — a Level 3 qualification relevant to care, community mental health or social support (or equivalent experience).

Experience delivering community projects, facilitating training, or developing workshops is desirable but not essential.

Why join us?

Joining Rethink Mental Illness means becoming part of a charity that believes in people’s potential. You’ll receive:

• Regular supervision and access to learning and development
• Supportive, values-driven colleagues
• Opportunities to shape services and empower individuals
• The chance to make a direct, life‑changing impact

Ready to make a difference?

If you’re passionate about supporting people with mental health challenges to achieve their employment goals, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today and help create a better future for people living with mental illness in East Kent.

East Kent IPS Employment Service Manager

Location: East Kent (Thanet, Folkestone, Hythe & Romney Marsh, Canterbury, Dover, Deal, Ashford)
Hours: 21 hours per week (0.6 FTE)
Contract: Permanent
Work type: Field‑based
Reporting to: Head of Area
DBS: Enhanced Disclosure with Adults Barred List

Who we are

At Rethink Mental Illness, we believe everyone severely affected by mental illness should have a good quality of life. We listen, we work together, and we challenge inequality — always putting people at the heart of what we do.

Our Individual Placement and Support (IPS) Employment Service helps people with mental health challenges find and sustain paid employment that matters to them. We’re now looking for a passionate and experienced IPS Employment Service Manager to lead and develop our East Kent service.

About the role

As Employment Service Manager, you’ll lead a small, dedicated team of Employment Specialists delivering high‑quality, recovery‑focused employment support across East Kent. You’ll ensure the service meets contractual requirements, achieves positive outcomes for people we support, and reflects Rethink’s values in everything it does.

Working closely with the Head of Area, you’ll provide day‑to‑day leadership, oversight of performance and quality, and strong external partnership working — all while championing innovation, inclusion, and continuous improvement.

You’ll manage four part‑time Employment Specialists and play a key role in shaping how the IPS service responds to local need.

What you’ll be doing

• Leading, supporting and developing a dispersed staff team to deliver safe, effective and person‑centred services
• Ensuring strong performance against contract targets, quality standards and reporting requirements
• Embedding safeguarding, data protection, equality and health & safety into everyday practice
• Providing regular supervision, coaching, appraisals and performance support
• Building effective relationships with commissioners, referrers, mental health services and community partners
• Managing recruitment, staff resourcing, budgets and operational processes
• Promoting service user involvement and ensuring voices of lived experience shape the service
• Identifying opportunities for service improvement, innovation and local engagement

Who we’re looking for

You’ll be a confident, values‑driven leader with experience of managing services in health, social care or a related setting. You’ll bring a collaborative approach, a commitment to recovery‑focused practice, and a genuine passion for supporting people affected by mental illness into employment.

You’ll need:

• Experience of managing and supporting staff teams, including supervision and performance management
• Knowledge of mental health, recovery approaches and best practice
• Experience of safeguarding, incident reporting and regulatory compliance
• Strong organisational, communication and partnership‑working skills
• Ability to plan, monitor and evidence outcomes and service impact
• NVQ Level 3 / QCF Diploma (or equivalent) in a health or social care related subject
• Good IT skills, including confidence using Microsoft Office

We’d love it if you also have:

• Lived experience of mental ill health or using mental health services

Why join us?

• Be part of a values‑led organisation making a real difference
• Work flexibly and autonomously with strong leadership support
• Access learning, development and career progression opportunities
• Join a caring, inclusive workplace where equity, respect and openness matter

Interested?
If you’re ready to lead a service that changes lives through meaningful employment, we’d love to hear from you.

Rethink Mental Illness is committed to creating a diverse workforce and welcomes applications from people with lived experience of mental illness.

Support people with mental health needs to find and keep meaningful work. As an Employment Support Coach, you’ll work one-to-one with individuals to build confidence, overcome barriers, and connect them with opportunities that match their goals. You’ll also work closely with employers and partner services, playing a key role in someone’s recovery journey and helping them move forward in their lives.

Leeds Mind promotes positive mental health and wellbeing and provides help and support to anyone who needs it in and around Leeds.  We have faith and optimism in our clients and so the services we deliver are built around their needs. We support the people of Leeds to discover their own resources to ‘recover’ from periods of poor mental health, and to live life independently with their mental health condition. 

Employment is a key part of mental health recovery. Our employment services are delivered in line with the IPS model, supporting people with mental health challenges to retain paid employment in line with their aspirations. IPS is delivered in close partnership with NHS mental health services, employers, commissioners and the wider system.

Due to receiving new funding we are excited to expand our WorkPlace Leeds service to develop our existing support in the community.

Roles available:

IPS Employment Specialists - Multiple positions available

To provide an evidence-based IPS employment support service, delivered in a trauma‑informed, person‑centred and inclusive way, in line with Leeds Mind values and IPS fidelity standards. We encourage all interested candidates to watch an introductory video which describes the impact of being an IPS Employment Specialist. You can find this link on the job advert attached.

Full-time permanent

Hours – 37 hours per week (we are unable to offer part time hours unfortunately but may be able to accommodate flexible working)

Supported Employment Specialists - multiple positions available

We support individuals with a range of needs, including mental health conditions, neurodiversity (autism, ADHD), and learning disabilities, to gain and sustain meaningful employment through personalised, strengths-based support. SEQF is delivered in close partnership with community groups , employers, commissioners and the wider system. 

1-year fixed term contract (may be extended depending on funding)

Hours – 37 hours per week and 28 hours per week

Selection process will include a telephone screening and assessment centre.

At Leeds Mind, we’ve made significant progress in Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging in recent years, resulting in a diverse team. We are committed to maintaining strong representation in our workforce and always encourage applications from LGBTQIA+, culturally diverse, neurodivergent and disabled individuals within Leeds Mind.

Location: The role is predominantly community-based but you will also attend meetings at Clarence House, Clarence Road, LS18 4LB.

You can find out more about the roles on the job description attached. We are holding a Q&A call so you can find out more about the roles and service. Please see the Vacancies page of our website for more details.

At Hestia, we are guided by our core values and are dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisation. Our mission is to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Right now, we are looking for a Employment Specialist to play a pivotal role in our Employment Services in Merton.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

You will support a caseload of 20 – 25 clients to find competitive and sustained employment. Around 20% of referrals will be to assist clients to remain in work if struggling, or return to work, if off sick. Employment Specialists will follow the 8 principles of IPS, adhere to the IPS Fidelity Scale and achieve monthly targets and KPIs
with the required administration and compliance.

What do I need to bring with me?

You'll need to be able to demonstrate the core skills this role requires as well as match our values and mission. You don't have to tick all the boxes right away; the important thing is that you're willing to learn. We also value lived experience of the areas we support, so if you feel comfortable, please do mention this on your application.

You will bring a strong understanding of the needs and experiences of people with mental health conditions, including those who may be disengaged from services, and experience providing effective mental health care and support. You will have a commitment to co-production, ensuring service users are actively involved in shaping services that meet their cultural and individual needs, and experience using feedback mechanisms to drive continuous improvement. Strong leadership and organisational skills are essential, including experience managing services within budget and promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of practice.

You will have excellent knowledge of mental health, housing, community care, health and safety, and welfare benefits legislation, with the ability to recognise deteriorating mental health and respond appropriately. Confident representing the organisation externally, you will be able to deliver presentations, develop promotional materials, and build positive relationships with partners and stakeholders. Strong IT skills are also essential, with the ability to produce accurate reports and support staff to maintain high standards of client record-keeping and data quality.

Interview Steps

We keep our interview process simple, so you know exactly what to expect.

• Shortlisting call: We have a team of dedicated recruitment specialists who will speak to you about your experience, motivations and values. They will also tell you about all the great work we do!
• Face to face interview: Now you will have face to face interview with the hiring manager. Our interviews are value and competency based.

Don't be alarmed if there are other stages in the process, it's all part of the plan for some of our roles.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our services users come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds because it makes us stronger. We are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce and value the skills, abilities, talent and experiences, different people and communities bring to our organisation.

We are a disability confident employer

Hestia is proud to be a disability confident employer, dedicated to the employment and career development of individuals with disabilities. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role they have applied for. We also provide reasonable adjustments during the selection and interview process, and throughout your employment with us.

Safeguarding Statement

Hestia is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children and young people who are potentially at risk, and we therefore expect all staff and volunteers to do the same. We require all staff to undertake internal and external safeguarding training throughout their employment with Hestia.

Important Information for Candidates

If your application is successful, please be aware that you will be required to undergo pre-employment checks before a formal offer of employment can be confirmed.

We reserve the right to close this job advert early should we receive a high volume of applications or if the position is filled before the closing date. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible to ensure their application is considered.

At Hestia, we are guided by our core values and are dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisation. Our mission is to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Right now, we are looking for an Employment Specialist to play a pivotal role in our Employment Services in Redbridge.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

Employment Specialists provide personalised support to set career goals, overcome barriers to work, and navigate every stage of the job search—from CV writing and interview preparation to engaging with employers and understanding how employment may affect benefits. The team also offers ongoing in-work support to help individuals stay in their roles and thrive in the workplace.​

What do I need to bring with me?

You'll need to be able to demonstrate the core skills this role requires as well as match our values and mission. You don't have to tick all the boxes right away; the important thing is that you're willing to learn. We also value lived experience of the areas we support, so if you feel comfortable, please do mention this on your application.

You will bring a strong understanding of mental health and employment support, with experience helping individuals to find, return to, and sustain employment, and knowledge of models such as IPS. You will have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, enabling you to build effective relationships with clients, stakeholders, and partners, and confidently present and promote services. Highly organised, you will be able to manage your time, prioritise tasks, and work to tight deadlines in an outcome-driven environment.

You will demonstrate a sound understanding of key policies and legislation, including Health & Safety, Data Protection, Equality & Diversity, and the Equality Act 2010, alongside a commitment to continuous professional development. A positive, proactive, and person-centred approach is essential, with the ability to assess client needs, develop action plans, and maintain accurate records using Microsoft Office and case management systems. Flexibility to travel across the borough and a commitment to supporting wellbeing and inclusion are also key.

Interview Steps

We keep our interview process simple, so you know exactly what to expect.

• Shortlisting call: We have a team of dedicated recruitment specialists who will speak to you about your experience, motivations and values. They will also tell you about all the great work we do!
• Face to face interview: Now you will have face to face interview with the hiring manager. Our interviews are value and competency based.

Don't be alarmed if there are other stages in the process, it's all part of the plan for some of our roles.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our services users come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds because it makes us stronger. We are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce and value the skills, abilities, talent and experiences, different people and communities bring to our organisation.

We are a disability confident employer

Hestia is proud to be a disability confident employer, dedicated to the employment and career development of individuals with disabilities. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role they have applied for. We also provide reasonable adjustments during the selection and interview process, and throughout your employment with us.

Safeguarding Statement

Hestia is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children and young people who are potentially at risk, and we therefore expect all staff and volunteers to do the same. We require all staff to undertake internal and external safeguarding training throughout their employment with Hestia.

Important Information for Candidates

If your application is successful, please be aware that you will be required to undergo pre-employment checks before a formal offer of employment can be confirmed.

We reserve the right to close this job advert early should we receive a high volume of applications or if the position is filled before the closing date. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible to ensure their application is considered.

At Hestia, we are guided by our core values and are dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisation. Our mission is to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Right now, we are looking for a Employment Specialist to play a pivotal role in our Employability Services in Haringey.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

We are seeking a dedicated and adaptable professional to manage a caseload of up to 20 clients, supporting individuals with mental health conditions into meaningful employment using the IPS model. The ideal candidate will work closely with clinical teams, contribute to multi-disciplinary care planning, and build strong relationships with employers to tailor job opportunities. Strong organisational and communication skills are essential for managing referrals, job retention support, and compliance with NHS and Hestia protocols. The role also requires accurate KPI tracking, benefit guidance, and flexibility to work across various settings. A commitment to professional development, collaboration, and client-centred outcomes is key.​

What do I need to bring with me?

You'll need to be able to demonstrate the core skills this role requires as well as match our values and mission. You don't have to tick all the boxes right away; the important thing is that you're willing to learn. We also value lived experience of the areas we support, so if you feel comfortable, please do mention this on your application.

Someone who is a self starter and comfortable with a lone working environment, you will have strong empathy skills and an eye for detail. You should have experience of supporting people in a job search and have made an impact on this. To succeed you would need to have worked in a target environment and used to meeting and exceeding targets.

Interview Steps

We keep our interview process simple, so you know exactly what to expect.

• Shortlisting call: We have a team of dedicated recruitment specialists who will speak to you about your experience, motivations and values. They will also tell you about all the great work we do!
• Face to face interview: Now you will have face to face interview with the hiring manager. Our interviews are value and competency based.

Don't be alarmed if there are other stages in the process, it's all part of the plan for some of our roles.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our services users come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds because it makes us stronger. We are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce and value the skills, abilities, talent and experiences, different people and communities bring to our organisation.

We are a disability confident employer

Hestia is proud to be a disability confident employer, dedicated to the employment and career development of individuals with disabilities. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role they have applied for. We also provide reasonable adjustments during the selection and interview process, and throughout your employment with us.

Safeguarding Statement

Hestia is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children and young people who are potentially at risk, and we therefore expect all staff and volunteers to do the same. We require all staff to undertake internal and external safeguarding training throughout their employment with Hestia.

Important Information for Candidates

If your application is successful, please be aware that you will be required to undergo pre-employment checks before a formal offer of employment can be confirmed.

We reserve the right to close this job advert early should we receive a high volume of applications or if the position is filled before the closing date. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible to ensure their application is considered.