Employment Specialist

An exciting new opportunity has arisen to expand the Workways IPS (Individual Placement and Support Supported Employment) team across Devon Partnership NHS Trust. Workways is recruiting Employment Specialists to work in Torbay.

Workways admin base is in Exminster, near Exeter, but day-to-day work for the post holder will be based within mental health teams in the area. The post holder will receive management and clinical supervision from Workways. The role involves assisting clients in finding and maintaining paid employment using the evidenced-based IPS approach. Experience supporting employers and helping individuals with health conditions (preferably mental health-related) to find employment is essential.

Please note: Applicants requiring a certificate of sponsorship should review the 'Coming to work in the UK Visa information' link on the advert to see if they meet the requirements, as this role does not meet the standard salary threshold for a skilled worker visa.

Main duties of the job

The postholder will work as part of the Workways team following IPS best practice, providing vocational assessments and managing a caseload of up to 20 individuals with mental health issues seeking employment. The role involves working proactively with clients, providing advice, and establishing links with relevant organizations and employers to facilitate employment opportunities. It may involve lone working and working away from base without direct supervision.

About us

We provide mental health, learning disability, and neurodiversity services, along with specialist and secure services for the wider southwest region and nationally. We are committed to promoting good mental health and wellbeing, using our expertise and resources to deliver high-quality, safe, and recovery-focused services.

Our values emphasize quality care, respect, dignity, compassion, and inclusivity. We welcome applications from all community sections and particularly encourage those with lived experience of mental health conditions, neurodiversity, or learning disabilities. We are a Disability Confident Leader.

Job responsibilities

Job Purpose

The postholder will work within the IPS framework, providing vocational assessments and managing a caseload of up to 20 clients. The aim is to support clients in achieving and maintaining employment, working in an individualised and proactive manner.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop effective relationships with clients, employers, and partner agencies.
• Support clients with job search, preparation, and workplace support.
• Establish and maintain employer contacts, promoting the benefits of employing individuals with mental health issues.
• Provide advice and support to employers and clients, including training where necessary.
• Work closely with mental health teams to ensure client needs are met.
• Maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries at all times.

Person Specification

Qualifications

• Degree in Occupational Therapy, Careers Guidance, Vocational Rehabilitation, or equivalent.
• NVQ4 in Advice and Guidance or Coaching qualification.

Experience

• Knowledge of IPS supported employment approach.
• Understanding of mental health conditions and employment challenges.
• Excellent communication, organisational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Additional requirements

• Current professional registration if applicable.
• Motivational interviewing and presentation skills.
• Commitment to continuous professional development.

Other information

This role is subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check. Salary is £29,970 to £36,483 per year pro rata (30 hours per week).