At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals with mental health challenges into meaningful employment.
- Company: Join a close-knit team dedicated to high-quality IPS services in Winchester.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 40 days holiday, mileage reimbursement, and ongoing training.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive culture with clear impact on clients' recovery journeys.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Proactive, resilient, and strong communication skills; no degree required.
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).
University Graduates (Mental Health) in Hyde employer: Red 5 People Ltd
Join a dedicated team in Winchester as an IPS Employment Specialist, where you'll have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges. With a strong focus on employee growth, ongoing training, and a supportive work culture, we offer 40 days of holiday and a collaborative environment that values your contributions. If you're looking for meaningful employment that allows you to engage with clients and local employers while being part of a holistic recovery approach, this is the perfect role for you.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land University Graduates (Mental Health) in Hyde
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture before your interview. Research their values and mission, and think about how your own experiences align with them. This will help you connect better during the conversation.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Role-play common interview questions with a friend or in front of a mirror. Being able to articulate your thoughts clearly is key, especially when discussing your passion for supporting individuals with mental health challenges.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Reach out to local employers and professionals in the mental health field. Attend community events or workshops to build relationships that could lead to job opportunities. Remember, sometimes it’s about who you know!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you on their radar as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace University Graduates (Mental Health) in Hyde
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that are relevant to the IPS Employment Specialist role. Highlight any experience you have in mental health support, employability, or customer-facing roles to show us you're a great fit!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about supporting individuals with mental health challenges and how your background aligns with our mission at StudySmarter. Keep it personal and engaging!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As a strong communicator, it's essential to demonstrate this in your application. Use clear and concise language, and make sure to convey your ability to build relationships with clients and employers effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you get a prompt response. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative!
How to prepare for a job interview at Red 5 People Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the IPS model and how it applies to mental health support. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities of the role, like managing a caseload and engaging with local employers. This will show that you're genuinely interested and prepared.
✨Showcase Your Soft Skills
This role requires strong communication and relationship-building skills. Be ready to share examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported clients or collaborated with teams. Highlight your proactive nature and adaptability, especially in fast-paced environments.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you'd handle specific situations, such as supporting a client through a challenging job application process. Think of real-life scenarios where you've demonstrated resilience and problem-solving skills, and be ready to discuss them in detail.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared. Inquire about the team culture, ongoing training opportunities, or how success is measured in the role. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the position is the right fit for you.