At a Glance
- Tasks: Support adults with learning disabilities to find and sustain employment through tailored training.
- Company: Join Central Bedfordshire Council's innovative Supported Employment Team.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, competitive salary, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to be part of a government-led initiative impacting 100,000 people annually.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives by helping them achieve their employment goals.
- Qualifications: Experience with supported employment models and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 34811 - 37562 € per year.
Team: Supported Employment Team – Adult Social Care
Job Family: Advising – CBG9
Salary: £34,811 - £37,562 per annum pro rata
Hours: 37 hours per week
Location: You will be expected to attend a CBC office location as often as needed to carry out your role, which will be no less than once per month.
Contract Type: Hybrid - Permanent
Closing date: 31st May 2026
Interview date: W/C 8th June 2026
About the role: We are pleased to be recruiting Employment Specialists for the new Connect to Work programme. Connect to Work is a 5-year programme, which forms part of the ‘Get Britain Working’ Government led Strategy. We will be working in collaboration with 5 other local authorities (Bedford Borough, Luton, Milton Keynes, North Northants and West Northants), to deliver the supported employment programme to residents. It has been identified that nationally, there are 1.9 million people who would like to work, but are not participating in the labour market, often due to health, disability or other complex barriers. The funding from Connect to Work will help around 100,000 people seek and find sustainable employment each year. The programme will connect local work, health and skills support to make an important first step towards the future devolution of employment support. This is an exciting time for Central Bedfordshire Council, as we plan to launch the new Connect to Work programme.
The Employment Specialists will use the Supported Employment Quality Framework (SEQF) model to place residents into employment, meeting individualised training needs to ensure they sustain their role. This post also involves working together with employers and other services to support residents in securing long term employment opportunities. This post will work with a range of stakeholders including the Department for Work and Pensions, Social Workers, Job Centres, Youth Support Services, Housing, Health and other local services.
You’ll need to have excellent communication and organisational skills, experience using the SEQF model or other similar supported employment models and show a passion in supporting adults with learning disabilities to reach their learning and employment goals. Applicants who do not already hold Supported Employment Quality Framework training must be willing to undertake the necessary CPD once in post.
Our Offer: We have a number of rewards and benefits available to our staff. Our aspiration is to be a truly flexible employer. We welcome discussion on location, hours and working pattern as part of the application process.
You will be expected to demonstrate how you meet the key accountabilities and competencies in this Recruitment Pack. Our Competency Framework and Qualification Guidance are to be read in conjunction with our Recruitment Pack.
For an informal discussion about this position, please contact: Natalie Quin at Natalie.quin@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk
Safeguarding: Central Bedfordshire Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all employees, volunteers and contractors to share this commitment. This post is subject to the disclosure of criminal records.
To maintain a fair and consistent approach for applicants, it is Central Bedfordshire Council's policy to only consider applications made via our online application system.
Our National Careers Service team offer a free monthly workshop covering CV writing and how to complete the statement sections of the Central Bedfordshire Council online application form. This MS Teams workshop is open to anyone from the UK and lasts around 1.5 hours.
Career opportunities Employment Specialist - Supported Employment Quality Framework employer: Central Bedfordshire Council
Central Bedfordshire Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and flexible work environment that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With the launch of the Connect to Work programme, employees will have the unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community by helping individuals overcome barriers to employment. The council fosters a collaborative culture, encouraging teamwork with various stakeholders while providing comprehensive rewards and benefits to enhance job satisfaction.
Contact Detail:
Central Bedfordshire Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Career opportunities Employment Specialist - Supported Employment Quality Framework
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, attend local events, and connect with others on LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of hearing about job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and practising common interview questions. We can’t stress enough how important it is to show that you’re genuinely interested in the role and the organisation.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t be shy about following up after an interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows your enthusiasm for the position. Plus, it keeps you on their radar.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that job! We’ve got all the resources you need to make your application stand out, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to showcase your skills.
We think you need these skills to ace Career opportunities Employment Specialist - Supported Employment Quality Framework
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. We want to see how you fit into the role of Employment Specialist, so make sure you understand the key responsibilities and requirements.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send in a generic application! We love it when candidates personalise their applications to highlight relevant experience and skills that match the Supported Employment Quality Framework. Show us why you're the perfect fit!
Use Clear and Concise Language:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and long-winded sentences. Make it easy for us to see your qualifications and passion for supporting adults with learning disabilities.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, we only accept applications through our online system. So, make sure you submit your application via our website. It’s quick and easy, and ensures your application gets to us without any hiccups!
How to prepare for a job interview at Central Bedfordshire Council
✨Know the SEQF Model Inside Out
Make sure you’re familiar with the Supported Employment Quality Framework (SEQF) model. Brush up on its principles and how it applies to supporting adults with learning disabilities. Being able to discuss specific examples of how you've used similar models in the past will show your expertise and passion for the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As an Employment Specialist, you'll be working with various stakeholders. Prepare to demonstrate your excellent communication skills during the interview. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others, especially in challenging situations, to highlight your ability to connect with both residents and employers.
✨Research the Connect to Work Programme
Dive into the details of the Connect to Work programme and understand its goals. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to its success and support the 100,000 people aiming for sustainable employment each year. Showing that you’re informed about the programme will impress the interviewers.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, team dynamics, and the future of the Connect to Work programme. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if this is the right fit for you. Plus, it gives you a chance to engage with the interviewers on a deeper level.
