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- Tasks: Help clients find meaningful employment and support their recovery journey.
- Company: Waythrough is a dynamic organisation focused on breaking barriers to support in communities.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, flexible working, and professional growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the community while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: No specific experience required; just bring your passion and motivation!
- Other info: Fixed term contract until March 2026, with a friendly team ready to support you.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
Waythrough launched in October 2024 following the merger of Humankind and Richmond Fellowship. Our vision is to break down the barriers that stop people from getting the support they need to live a life they value. We address poverty and disadvantage in communities through mental health, drug and alcohol, housing, and related support services.
We have nearly 200 services across England, supported by almost 3,500 staff and volunteers. Annually, our services support around 125,000 people.
As we integrate our systems and processes following the merger, some branding and recruitment systems are still separate.
Working hours: Monday-Friday 9:00am-5:00pm
Location: 47 Jackson Street, Gateshead, NE8 1EE
Fixed Term contract until March 2026
About the role: Employment Specialist
We seek a motivated, passionate self-starter eager to begin a career in employability or recovery services. This role offers on-the-job training to support individuals in treatment for drug and alcohol recovery in the Gateshead area.
As an Employment Specialist, you will help clients find meaningful employment, with full training and support to develop your skills and access opportunities within Gateshead.
This dynamic role involves:
- Promoting our clients as potential employees and raising awareness of our services
- Encouraging employers to consider our clients as potential applicants
- Creating employment opportunities through engagement with employers
- Facilitating work placements, trials, and experiences
- Providing in-work support to employed clients
For the full job description and person specification, please click here. For questions, contact jen.jackson@waythrough.org.uk.
The advertised salary reflects full earning potential; starting salaries will allow for pay progression within the pay band.
What Waythrough offers:
- A rewarding role making a tangible community impact
- Opportunities for professional growth in substance misuse and criminal justice
- Supportive, collaborative work environment
- Generous annual leave (27 days + bank holidays, increasing to 32 after 1 year)
- Annual leave purchase scheme
- Enhanced sick pay and pension contributions
- Death in service benefit, free will writing, eyecare vouchers, Blue Light Card discounts
- Training and development opportunities
- Flexible working and family-friendly policies
- Wellbeing programs, Employee Assistance Programme, and support networks
Waythrough is an equal-opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to diversity and inclusion. If you need support with your application, contact people.recruitment@waythrough.org.uk.
Additional details:
- Salary period: Annual
- Vacancy salary range: As specified
- DBS requirement: Not applicable
- Police/Prison vetting: Not applicable
- Driving license required: Yes
- Application deadline: 08 September 2025
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Employment Specialist employer: Forward Leeds
Contact Detail:
Forward Leeds Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Employment Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local job market in Gateshead, especially in sectors related to recovery services and employability. Understanding the needs of local employers can help you tailor your approach when promoting clients as potential employees.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with local organisations and businesses that align with Waythrough's mission. Building relationships with employers can create opportunities for work placements and trials, which are crucial for the role of an Employment Specialist.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on best practices in supporting individuals in recovery. This knowledge will not only enhance your skills but also demonstrate your commitment to the role during interviews and discussions with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your passion for helping others and your understanding of the challenges faced by individuals in recovery. Sharing personal experiences or insights can make a strong impression and show your suitability for the Employment Specialist position.
We think you need these skills to ace Employment Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Employment Specialist position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these aspects.
Craft a Compelling CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your relevant experience, particularly in employability or recovery services. Use bullet points for clarity and focus on achievements that demonstrate your ability to support clients effectively.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your passion for helping individuals in recovery and your motivation to work with Waythrough. Be specific about why you want to join their team and how you can contribute to their mission.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Forward Leeds
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description for the Employment Specialist position. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and expectations, especially around supporting clients in recovery and engaging with employers.
✨Show Your Passion
Demonstrate your enthusiasm for helping others and your commitment to making a difference in the community. Share personal experiences or motivations that drive your interest in employability and recovery services.
✨Prepare Examples
Think of specific examples from your past experiences that showcase your skills in communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. Be ready to discuss how these experiences relate to the role and how they can benefit the clients you'll be working with.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer about the company culture, training opportunities, and how success is measured in the role. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
