Employment Specialist - Employment Coach

Job overview

We are looking for motivated, people‑focused individuals to join our friendly Individual Placement & Support (IPS) Employment Services as Employment Specialists supporting people with serious and enduring mental health difficulties.

If you believe in the power of good work to support recovery… If you’re passionate about helping people build confidence and purpose… If you enjoy building relationships with local employers…

…then this could be the perfect role for you.

IPS is an evidence‑based model that helps people into paid work quickly and sustainably. Although 90% of people with severe mental illness want to work, only 8% are currently in employment — your work will directly help to change this.

Main duties of the job

What you’ll be doing

This is a highly rewarding, varied and fast‑paced role. You will:

Supporting clients

• Manage a caseload of people with mental health difficulties, helping them find, secure and retain paid employment.
• Use a person‑centred, strengths‑based approach to identify career goals and provide tailored support.
• Help clients and employers identify reasonable adjustments and return‑to‑work strategies.
• Promote independence, confidence and hope throughout each person’s recovery journey.

Working with employers

• Build strong relationships with local employers across Gloucestershire — including SMEs, public‑sector organisations, local retail, hospitality, logistics, green industries, and Gloucestershire’s thriving voluntary sector.
• Proactively approach employers and negotiate job opportunities within the hidden labour market.
• Challenge stigma and build inclusive, supportive workplaces.

Working in partnership

• Work closely with Gloucestershire Community Mental Health Teams (CMHTs), DWP Work Coaches, Citizens Advice and local partners.
• Be a key part of a multi‑disciplinary service supporting integrated community mental health care.
• Follow the IPS model, contribute to fidelity reviews and maintain high‑quality evidence and outcomes.

The qualification, training & experience requirements for the role are underlined in the Job Description/Person Specification.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

What we’re looking for

Essential qualifications & experience

• Educated to degree level or equivalent knowledge
• Experience or understanding of employment, recruitment or employer engagement
• Knowledge of Recovery and Social Inclusion
• Experience in supported employment or working with people with mental health challenges

Other essential criteria

• Ability to travel across Gloucestershire
• Full driving licence + access to a vehicle

Please review the Job Description & Person Specification before applying.

This role is not eligible for sponsorship as per the Government’s UK VISA and Immigration Rules and Regulations. For more information please visit https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/work-visas