At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals with mental health challenges in finding meaningful employment.
- Company: Join a close-knit team dedicated to high-quality IPS services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 40 days holiday, and travel reimbursement.
- Other info: Ongoing training and a supportive team culture await you.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: No degree needed; practical experience is valued.
The predicted salary is between 29343 - 29343 € per year.
We’re recruiting for an IPS Employment Specialist to join a supportive, close-knit team delivering high-quality Individual Placement and Support (IPS) services across Winchester. This is a community-based role, working directly with individuals experiencing mental health challenges, supporting them into sustainable, meaningful employment as part of their recovery journey. You’ll be embedded within clinical teams, working collaboratively with healthcare professionals while also building strong relationships with local employers.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Managing a caseload of around 20 clients, providing tailored, person-centred employment support
- Meeting clients face-to-face in the community to develop career plans, CVs, and job search strategies
- Actively engaging with local employers to identify opportunities (including hidden jobs)
- Supporting clients with interviews, applications, and in-work support
- Providing guidance around benefits, disclosure, and workplace adjustments
- Attending clinical meetings and contributing to a holistic recovery approach
- Maintaining accurate records using IPS systems and contributing to performance targets
What a Typical Week Looks Like
- Around 3 client meetings per day
- Minimum 6 face-to-face engagements per week (clients or employers)
- Fridays: Team meetings, planning, and admin time (no client appointments)
- Regular shadowing, mentoring, and ongoing training provided
What We’re Looking For
This role suits someone who is:
- Proactive and self-driven – able to take initiative rather than wait for direction
- Resilient and adaptable – comfortable working in a fast-paced, target-driven environment
- A strong communicator who can build relationships with both clients and employers
- Comfortable with outreach and employer engagement (calls, visits, networking)
- A team player who enjoys working collaboratively
Backgrounds That Work Well
You don’t need a degree — in fact, practical experience is often more valuable. We’re particularly interested in candidates from:
- Employability / Welfare to Work
- Mental Health or Support Work
- Recruitment or Sales
- Retail or Customer-Facing Roles
- Teaching Assistants or similar support roles
Essential Requirements
- Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle (travel reimbursed at 45p per mile)
- Ability to travel across the Winchester area
- Strong organisational and admin skills
- Genuine interest in supporting people with mental health needs into employment
What’s On Offer
- Salary: £29,343
- 40 days holiday (including bank holidays)
- Mileage paid at 45p per mile
- Ongoing training, mentoring, and career development
- Supportive team culture with regular supervision and collaboration
The Bigger Picture
You’ll be working to a high-fidelity IPS model, where success is measured by real outcomes — helping people move into competitive, paid employment. The team works towards achieving 40% of clients entering employment, making this a rewarding role where your impact is clear and meaningful.
Recruitment Process
Interviews taking place mid–late May. If you want a role where you can make a genuine difference, work in a supportive team, and take ownership of your caseload — this could be a great fit. Please apply via this advert – we aim to respond to everyone. If you haven’t heard back within 72 hours, please complete the “Send Us A Message” form on the Contact Us page of the Red 5 People website, and we guarantee a real person will respond.
For more details about the role, please call the office and ask for Lawrence (number available on the Red 5 People website).
SEN Teaching Assistant (Mental Health) in Hyde employer: Red 5 People Ltd
Join a dedicated team in Winchester as a SEN Teaching Assistant (Mental Health) where you will have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges. With a supportive work culture, ongoing training, and a focus on employee growth, you will be empowered to take ownership of your caseload while enjoying generous benefits such as 40 days of holiday and mileage reimbursement. This role not only offers meaningful employment but also allows you to collaborate closely with healthcare professionals and local employers, ensuring a holistic approach to recovery.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Teaching Assistant (Mental Health) in Hyde
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company and its culture before your interview. Research their values and recent projects, so you can show how you fit in and what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Role-play common interview questions with a friend or family member. This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently during the actual interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees on LinkedIn or attend local events related to mental health and employment. Building connections can lead to insider tips and even job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you on their radar!
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Teaching Assistant (Mental Health) in Hyde
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the SEN Teaching Assistant role. Highlight your relevant experience in mental health support and any skills that align with the job description, like communication and organisational skills.
Showcase Your Passion:Let us see your genuine interest in supporting individuals with mental health needs. Share personal stories or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to helping others on their recovery journey.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We want to understand your qualifications and enthusiasm without wading through unnecessary fluff!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly. Plus, if you have any questions, you can easily reach out to us through the contact form.
How to prepare for a job interview at Red 5 People Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of an IPS Employment Specialist and the specific challenges faced by individuals with mental health issues. Familiarise yourself with the IPS model and think about how your past experiences relate to supporting clients in their journey towards employment.
✨Showcase Your Soft Skills
This role requires strong communication and relationship-building skills. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully engaged with clients or employers in the past. Highlight your adaptability and resilience, especially in fast-paced environments, as these traits are crucial for this position.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the team culture, ongoing 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.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Consider doing mock interviews with a friend or mentor. Focus on articulating your experiences clearly and confidently. Practising common interview questions related to mental health support and employment services will help you feel more at ease during the actual interview.
