At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals with mental health challenges in finding meaningful employment.
- Company: Join a close-knit team dedicated to making a real difference.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 40 days holiday, and travel reimbursement.
- Other info: Ongoing training and career development in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a genuine impact while helping others on their recovery journey.
- Qualifications: No degree needed; practical experience is valued.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
We are 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 will 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 are ASAP. 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).
Mental Health Advisor in Southampton employer: Red 5 People
Join an award-winning national charity that prioritises employee well-being and offers a predominantly home-based Quality Assurance Officer role, allowing you to make a significant impact on life-changing public services. With a strong commitment to professional development, a collaborative work culture, and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful employment support programmes, this position is perfect for those looking to enhance their career while making a difference in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mental Health Advisor in Southampton
✨Connect Through Professional Networks
Join associations related to therapy and counselling, like the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). They often have job boards, events, and forums where you can meet potential employers and like-minded professionals. Being active in these spaces can give you a significant edge.
✨Show Up at Local Mental Health Events
Look for workshops, seminars, and conferences focused on mental health in your area. Not only can you learn valuable insights, but you can also network with professionals who might be aware of full-time opportunities, like the ones at Red 5 People. Plus, showing your passion for the field in person can leave a lasting impression.
✨Utilise Online Platforms Tailored to Counselling
Websites like TherapyJobs or Indeed specifically cater to therapy professionals. Make sure to check these regularly for new listings, and consider setting up alerts to stay ahead of the game. Plus, applying directly through these platforms can sometimes give you better visibility.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re recently graduated or still in school, don't forget to tap into your university's career resources. They often have exclusive listings for full-time positions and can help you refine your interview skills. Plus, they might connect you with alumni who’re already working at places like Red 5 People.
We think you need these skills to ace Mental Health Advisor in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Qualifications:Make sure to showcase any relevant qualifications you've completed, such as a degree in psychology or counselling certifications. This is super important in the therapy and counselling field, so don’t skip over these details in your CV.
Showcase Your Empathy Skills:In your cover letter, it's essential to demonstrate your empathy and communication skills, which are key in therapy. Share specific examples from your previous experiences where you've effectively helped someone through a tough time—this will make your application stand out.
Demonstrate Your Continued Learning:We love seeing candidates who are committed to ongoing professional development. Mention any workshops, seminars, or additional training you’ve attended recently. This not only boosts your CV but shows your passion for the field.
Personalise Your Application for Red 5 People:Take some time to research Red 5 People and reflect this understanding in your application. Explain why you’re interested in working with them specifically and how your values align with their approach—this personal touch can make all the difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Red 5 People
✨Show Your Empathy and Communication Skills
In therapy and counselling, it's all about how well you connect with others. Be ready to share examples of how you've demonstrated empathy, active listening, and non-verbal communication in past experiences. Your ability to create rapport with clients is key, so let that shine through!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face some scenario-based questions that assess your practical skills in dealing with clients. Think of various client situations or challenges you've encountered or could encounter. Practice how you would respond, ensuring you highlight your problem-solving abilities and therapeutic techniques.
✨Highlight Your Continuing Education
Being in a full-time role in therapy means you need to stay updated with the latest techniques and theories. Mention any professional development courses you've taken recently, or plans you have for ongoing education. This shows that you’re committed to growth in your field and eager to help your clients with the best approaches.
✨Finesse Your Personal Statement
In therapy, your personal statement is a chance to showcase who you are beyond your qualifications. Tailor it to not just highlight your credentials but also your passion for helping others. Share personal stories or insights that led you to this profession, reinforcing why you'd be a great fit for Red 5 People's values and approach.
