At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people in finding and sustaining meaningful employment through tailored guidance.
- Company: Groundwork NE & Cumbria, a charity focused on community and environmental improvement.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive work culture, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to creating better places and improving prospects.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while building valuable relationships.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a passion for helping others succeed.
The predicted salary is between 28383 - 31683 € per year.
Salary: £28,383 – £31,683 per annum
Hours: Full Time – 37 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Location(s): Roles across Cumbria, including Barrow in Furness, Copeland, Allerdale & Carlisle
About us
Groundwork NE & Cumbria is a long‑established environmental and community charity with over 30 years of experience creating greener, healthier and more resilient places across the region. Our mission centres on Creating Better Places, Improving People’s Prospects, and Promoting Greener Living, helping communities thrive no matter the challenges they face. We deliver hundreds of locally‑led projects each year, including initiatives that support young people into education, training and employment, helping them overcome barriers, build life skills, and reach their full potential.
About the role
We’re looking for an Employment Specialist to support the delivery of our Connect to Work programme. You’ll use the Individual Placement & Support (IPS) model to provide person‑centred IAG support to a caseload of around 25 clients, helping them move into and sustain meaningful employment. You’ll build strong employer relationships to source suitable vacancies and work closely with partners including health providers, mental health services, JCP, and other employment organisations to ensure joined‑up support.
About you
- Passionate in supporting young people to overcome barriers and achieve their potential.
- A strong communicator, confident engaging with clients, employers and partners.
- Equipped with strong analytical and problem‑solving ability, able to assess needs and identify effective employment solutions.
- Person‑centred, empathetic and passionate about helping others succeed.
- Skilled at building positive, trusting relationships.
- Highly organised with the ability to manage a varied caseload and meet deadlines.
- Confident working independently and collaboratively.
Closing date: Midnight on Tuesday 24th March 2026
Please note, should we receive a high volume of applications, we may look to close the role early, therefore we recommend an early application.
This role is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure endorsed by the Disclosure and Barring Service.
As a Disability Confident employer we offer a guaranteed interview to applicants with a disability who meet the essential criteria for the role.
This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship – the successful applicant will need to have a pre-existing Right to Work in the UK in order to be offered an employment contract.
No agencies please.
Locations
Employment Specialist – Connect to Work in Carlisle, Whitehaven, Workington employer: Groundwork NE & Cumbria
Groundwork NE & Cumbria is an exceptional employer dedicated to creating greener, healthier communities while empowering individuals through meaningful employment opportunities. With a strong focus on employee growth and a supportive work culture, we celebrate diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that every team member feels valued and has the chance to thrive. Our commitment to making a positive impact in Cumbria, including Barrow in Furness, Copeland, Allerdale, and Carlisle, makes this role not just a job, but a chance to contribute to the betterment of society.
Contact Detail:
Groundwork NE & Cumbria Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Employment Specialist – Connect to Work in Carlisle, Whitehaven, Workington
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Groundwork NE & Cumbria. Understand their mission and values, especially how they support young people. This will help you connect your passion for helping others with what they do.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to the role of an Employment Specialist. Think about your experiences and how they align with the job description. We want you to feel confident when discussing your skills and how you can make a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your communication skills! During the interview, be sure to demonstrate your ability to engage with clients and partners. Use examples from your past experiences where you’ve built strong relationships or helped someone overcome barriers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a great way to reinforce your interest in the role and keep you fresh in their minds. Plus, it shows you’re proactive!
We think you need these skills to ace Employment Specialist – Connect to Work in Carlisle, Whitehaven, Workington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for supporting young people shine through in your application. We want to see how you connect with our mission of helping communities thrive and how you can make a difference.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills. We’re looking for strong communicators and problem-solvers, so showcase those abilities clearly!
Be Person-Centred:Emphasise your empathetic approach and ability to build trusting relationships. We value candidates who can demonstrate their commitment to person-centred support, so share examples from your past experiences.
Apply Early:Don’t wait until the last minute! We might close the role early if we get a lot of applications, so get your application in as soon as you can through our website. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Groundwork NE & Cumbria
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the Connect to Work programme and the IPS model. Familiarise yourself with Groundwork NE & Cumbria's mission and values, as well as their projects. This will help you demonstrate your passion for supporting young people and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As an Employment Specialist, strong communication is key. Prepare examples of how you've effectively engaged with clients, employers, and partners in the past. Think about times when you've built trusting relationships or resolved conflicts, and be ready to share these stories during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Ability
Be prepared to discuss specific challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you overcame them. Highlight your analytical skills by explaining how you assess needs and identify effective employment solutions. This will show that you can think on your feet and adapt to different situations.
✨Emphasise Your Organisational Skills
With a varied caseload, being organised is crucial. Share your strategies for managing multiple tasks and meeting deadlines. You might want to mention any tools or methods you use to stay on top of your workload, as this will reassure the interviewers that you can handle the demands of the role.
