At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals facing barriers to employment and help them find meaningful work.
- Company: Join The Forward Trust, a social enterprise making a real difference in people's lives.
- Benefits: Flexible working, training opportunities, wellbeing days, and generous annual leave.
- Other info: Diverse team culture with a commitment to inclusivity and support.
- Why this job: Make a genuine impact by empowering others to build better futures.
- Qualifications: Experience in employability, health services, or coaching is a plus.
Location: Thanet
Salary: Up to £28,000 depending on experience
Vacancy Type: Permanent, Full Time
Closing Date: 23rd June 2026
Looking for a role where you can genuinely change lives? At The Forward Trust, we’re looking for compassionate, motivated Employment Specialists to join our Connect to Work team across Thanet, Dover and Folkestone / Hythe. This is a full-time role working 35 hours per week, although part-time or reduced hours will also be considered depending on business needs and service requirements.
If you enjoy helping people build confidence, overcome barriers and move towards a better future, this could be the perfect opportunity to make a real difference every day. You’ll support people facing barriers to employment, including mental health challenges, long-term health conditions, disabilities and other life circumstances, helping them find meaningful work, sustain employment and progress towards greater independence.
What you’ll be doing
- Manage your own caseload and provide personalised support throughout each participant’s employment journey, including:
- CV writing, job applications and interview preparation
- Career coaching, confidence building and job searching
- Delivering one-to-one and group support sessions
- Building relationships with local employers and identifying opportunities
- Supporting inclusive workplaces and reasonable adjustments
- Providing in-work support to help people sustain and progress in employment
- Working closely with community organisations, health services and training providers to remove barriers and create joined-up support
Full IPS / Connect to Work training will be provided, along with ongoing development and support.
What we’re looking for
- Experience in:
- Employability or recruitment
- Health, wellbeing or support services
- Adult learning or skills programmes
- Coaching, mentoring or support work
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills
- Confidence working with people from diverse backgrounds
- A positive, supportive and person-centred approach
- A genuine belief that everyone deserves access to employment opportunities
A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle is essential for this role.
For more than 25 years, The Forward Trust has helped people overcome challenges including addiction, offending and unemployment to build healthier, more stable futures. We’re committed to creating a supportive, flexible and inclusive working environment where our people can thrive while making a genuine impact in the communities we serve.
About Us
We are The Forward Trust, the social enterprise with charitable status that empowers people to break the often interlinked cycles of crime and addiction to move forward with their lives. For more than 25 years we have been working with people to build positive and productive lives, whatever their past. We believe that anyone is capable of lasting change. Our services have supported thousands of people to make positive changes and build productive lives with a job, family, friends and a sense of community. We are committed to our cause and the work we carry out as a charity. Equally the wellbeing and the employees who work for us are also important.
Joining us as an employee, we will offer you the following benefits:
- Flexible working
- Training and development opportunities
- Simply Health Cashback Scheme (optional)
- Season Ticket Loan Scheme
- Cycle to work scheme
- Crisis Loan Scheme
- Electric Car Scheme
- 3 x Wellbeing Days (pro rata'd for part time employees)
- Access to Blue Light Card
- 25 days (rising to 30 with length of service) Annual Leave plus Bank Holidays
- Contributory Pension Scheme – Employer matched contributions of up to 6% in the first two years’ service and up to 9% thereafter
- Death in Service Payment (2x annual salary)
- Critical Illness Insurance (subject to qualifying criteria)
Please note that we may close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
Diversity at Forward Trust
The Forward Trust commits to providing opportunities to everyone. We want to ensure we have a diverse team with a range of lived and professional experiences. This includes those with ‘Lived Experience’ of addiction, offending, or homelessness.
To Apply
If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for Forward Trust, please click apply to be redirected to our website to complete your application.
Employment Specialist - Thanet, Dover & Folkestone/Hythe employer: Forward Trust
At The Forward Trust, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals facing barriers to employment. Our supportive and inclusive work culture fosters personal and professional growth, offering flexible working arrangements, comprehensive training, and a range of benefits including wellbeing days and a contributory pension scheme. Join us in Thanet, where you can truly change lives while enjoying a fulfilling career in a compassionate environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Employment Specialist - Thanet, Dover & Folkestone/Hythe
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, attend local events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Before any interview, do some mock interviews with friends or family. This will help you feel more confident and articulate when discussing your experience and how you can make a difference as an Employment Specialist.
✨Tip Number 3
Tailor your approach! When reaching out to potential employers, mention specific ways you can support their mission. Show them that you understand their needs and how your skills can help them achieve their goals.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After interviews or networking events, send a quick thank-you email. It shows your appreciation and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great way to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role!
We think you need these skills to ace Employment Specialist - Thanet, Dover & Folkestone/Hythe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Employment Specialist role. Highlight your experience in employability, coaching, or support services, and don’t forget to showcase your strong communication skills!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for helping others and how your background aligns with our mission at The Forward Trust. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Relevant Experience:When filling out your application, emphasise any relevant experience you have in supporting people facing barriers to employment. This could be from previous jobs, volunteering, or even personal experiences that shaped your understanding.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Forward Trust
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand The Forward Trust's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their work in supporting people facing barriers to employment. This will help you connect your experience to their goals during the conversation.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
As an Employment Specialist, compassion is key. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've helped individuals overcome challenges. Highlight your ability to build relationships and support diverse backgrounds, as this aligns perfectly with what they’re looking for.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Since the role involves CV writing and interview preparation, practice these skills beforehand. You might even want to conduct mock interviews with a friend or family member. This will boost your confidence and help you articulate your thoughts clearly during the actual interview.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the role and the team. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you. Consider asking about their approach to supporting employees' wellbeing or how they measure success in their programmes.
