At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals with mental and physical health needs to find and retain meaningful employment.
- Company: Join Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, a leader in community health services.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days holiday, excellent pension, staff discounts, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Work in a supportive environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives by helping them achieve their employment goals.
- Qualifications: Experience in health, social care, or recruitment is a plus; strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
IPS Employment Specialist - Connect to Work (North Essex)
A Vacancy at Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust.
EPUT is very excited and proud to offer the opportunity to join our new Connect to Work employment service on a fixed-term contract until 31st December 2026.
This service supports those across Essex with mental and physical health needs achieve and retain good quality paid work.
This builds on a long track record and reputation at EPUT for helping to make a difference to people's lives through promoting sustainable employment that improves mental and physical health and brings wider community benefits.
The service is called Connect to Work and the main focus is to work alongside primary and community healthcare providers who will be the main referrers into the service and deliver high quality support to help those referred to gain and sustain in paid employment.
It is expected that the successful applicant will need to be able to work mainly in the Tendring/Harwich area of North Essex.
We are looking for an enthusiastic and highly motivated individual to help people with mental and/or physical health needs to access employment.
You will be involved in helping people decide on their employment goals, setting and achieving goals, including support with job searching, applications, interview skills and providing ongoing in work support after they have found work.
We are seeking individuals who are person-centred and positive in their outlook, have a 'can do' attitude and enjoy the challenges of helping people to overcome any barriers to finding work.
You must have strong communication skills and confidence in order to build up relationships with all relevant stakeholders including local employers and businesses.
You will be required to directly engage with a range of stakeholders (e. g.
DWP, Job Centre +, voluntary organisations, training providers etc.) but especially local employers in order to create opportunities for service users and to challenge stigma and discrimination that can at times be associated with mental and/or physical health needs and employment.
You will also be meeting and working with individuals and organisations in their local community
Valuing you. Recognising your dedication. At EPUT, we look after you.
- Receive supervision and support to help you fulfil your potential.
- Join an inclusive EPUT community and connect with others through engagement events and equality or champion networks.
- If you need help, we provide mental health and wellbeing services, occupational health advice and counselling.
- We run recognition awards to recognise staff's hard work and dedication.
- 27 days holiday, plus bank holidays, rising to 33 days after 10 years' service.
- Excellent pension of up to14.5% of your pensionable pay.
- Staff discounts include Blue Light Card, NHS discount offers, and staff benefits.
- £8K relocation package if you move to Essex to join us
- Season ticket loans are interest-free to cover the cost of travelling to and from work via tram, rail, or bus.
- Flexible working: available from day one for most roles.
You will work in partnership with multi-disciplinary Mental and Physical Health Teams within Primary Care health providers and will be expected to 'champion the employment agenda', instilling the belief that people with mental and/or physical health needs want to work and with the right support can work; and therefore generating referrals to the service.
You will work in partnership with individual service users, developing relationships that are enabling and empowering.
You will be providing an evidence based supported employment service, which will require you to prepare individuals for employment by assessing needs; identifying strengths, help with benefits, support networks, travel to work plans etc.
You will work to individual targets, i. e. the number of people supported into employment, and the number of Employers engaged with.
You will be skilled in managing your own time and working with a high level of autonomy; responsible to the Team Leader via regular supervision and support and accountable to the Vocational Manager.
You will promote best practice within mental and physical health and employment in the Trust and other organisations in the local area.
Would you like an opportunity to help people who have mental health needs to find meaningful and sustainable work?
Do you currently work or have experience in health or social care, recruitment, employment or education services?
If you have transferable skills to enable people to find and sustain employment, this is an excellent opportunity to join our new Connect to Work service.
- This advert closes on Tuesday 18 Aug 2026
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
IPS Employment Specialist - Connect to Work (North Essex) in Colchester employer: Allscreens Nationwide Ltd
Allscreens Nationwide is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive team culture where employees are valued and encouraged to thrive. With access to state-of-the-art training facilities and opportunities for career progression, our Automotive Glazing Technicians in Birmingham can expect not only competitive bonuses but also the chance to work with the latest technology in the industry. Join us and be part of a company that prioritises both employee well-being and customer satisfaction.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land IPS Employment Specialist - Connect to Work (North Essex) in Colchester
✨Get Involved in Local Community Projects
One of the best ways to land a temporary role in social work is to dive headfirst into local community projects. Volunteer your time or skills at local charities or community centres to not only gain experience but also to connect with professionals in the field. They might just have some insider knowledge on temporary positions that pop up!
✨Engage with Social Work Networks
Join online forums and social media groups specifically for social workers. Platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn have dedicated groups where professionals share temporary job opportunities. Being an active member can help you stay in the loop and even get recommendations from those already in the field.
✨Attend Workshops and Seminars
Keep an eye out for workshops, seminars, or conferences related to social work in your area. These events aren't just great for learning; they're also hotbeds for networking! You never know who might be hiring or can point you towards a temporary position while you're soaking up new skills.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website!
When you spot a role that piques your interest, especially for a temporary position, make sure to apply directly through our website! This not only shows your commitment to Allscreens Nationwide Ltd, but also gives you an edge by putting your application right in front of the hiring team. Let’s get you moving on that path to your next opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace IPS Employment Specialist - Connect to Work (North Essex) in Colchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let's highlight why you're passionate about social work and how your values align with those of Allscreens Nationwide Ltd. Share specific experiences where you made a difference, as this field thrives on genuine motivation and connection.
Demonstrate Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, focus on any internships, volunteer roles, or temporary positions you've had in social work or related fields. Those skills are gold! Think about situations where you helped individuals or communities, and don't forget to mention any relevant certifications, like safeguarding or mental health first aid.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Remember, for a temporary role, hiring managers want to see how you fit in and can hit the ground running. Keep your CV clear and to the point, showcasing only the experience that really matters for the role at Allscreens Nationwide Ltd. We recommend a two-page limit – make every word count!
Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability:Considering this is a temporary position, it's vital to show you can adapt to new environments quickly. In your application, highlight any past experiences where you had to adjust to different teams or roles smoothly. This shows you understand the nature of temporary work and are ready for the challenge!
How to prepare for a job interview at Allscreens Nationwide Ltd
✨Sharpen Your Empathy Skills
In social work, it's all about understanding and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Make sure to prepare some examples from your experience where you've demonstrated empathy and resilience. Practising active listening techniques can help you articulate your approach during the interview with Allscreens Nationwide Ltd.
✨Know Your Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with key social work theories and frameworks, like the ecological systems theory or person-centred approaches. These concepts might pop up during your interview for the temporary IPS Employment Specialist - Connect to Work (North Essex) role at Allscreens Nationwide Ltd, so it's good to have a couple of insights ready to share.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since this is a temporary position, showcasing your flexibility is key. Be prepared to discuss past experiences where you quickly adapted to new environments or changing client needs, which is crucial in the dynamic world of social work.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions that test your decision-making skills and ethical judgement. Think about how you would handle specific challenges you might face in the field. Having a clear structure for your answers will show Allscreens Nationwide Ltd that you can think critically and act effectively under pressure.
