At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals with mental health challenges in finding and maintaining employment.
- Company: Join one of the UK's largest charities making a real difference.
- Benefits: Full training, ongoing support, and a chance to build a meaningful career.
- Other info: Community-based role with opportunities for personal growth and resilience.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on people's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Psychology graduates or those with experience supporting vulnerable individuals.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Are you a Psychology graduate (or early in your career) looking to apply your knowledge in a meaningful, real-world role? Join one of the UK's largest charities and help people improve their mental health by supporting them into work. We're recruiting for roles across Hampshire including Basingstoke, Fareham, Gosport, Havant, Hayling Island and potentially Andover and Winchester.
You'll train as an IPS (Individual Placement and Support) Employment Specialist—an evidence-based, clinically-informed model that helps people with mental health conditions into employment. This is not a therapy role; your focus is on supporting people into work, a key part of recovery. You'll manage a caseload of around 25 people, deliver 1:1 support (CVs, job search, interviews, in-work support), work alongside NHS teams, Jobcentres, and local partners, and engage employers to create job opportunities. This is a community-based role (no office/home working), meeting people across local sites.
You'll be working with vulnerable individuals, many of whom may have experienced significant challenges in their lives, so the charity classifies this as a high-risk environment. There will be safeguarding incidents to manage as part of the role. It's a challenging, community-based role where you'll be managing your own diary, working to targets, and juggling multiple priorities. Full training and ongoing support are provided, and while there is a high level of lone working, check-in systems are in place to ensure your safety. Being organised, resilient, and able to manage your own wellbeing is key.
Full IPS training provided, including online learning, shadowing, and ongoing support from your Team Leader. This is a practical, real-world role where you'll gain direct experience supporting people with mental health needs, and a chance to build a career in the employment support space.
Either experience supporting vulnerable people (paid or voluntary) or 12+ months in a target-driven role (e.g. sales, recruitment, customer service), plus strong communication skills, empathy, and the ability to work independently.
Full-time, Mon-Fri (9-5). Community-based (no home working).
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 on the Red 5 People website, and we guarantee a real person will get back to you.
For more details, call the office and ask for David (contact details can be found on the Red 5 People website).
IPS Employment Specialist – Mental Health Impact in Winchester employer: Red 5 People
Join one of the UK's largest charities and make a real difference in people's lives as an IPS Employment Specialist. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will receive comprehensive training and ongoing support while working in a dynamic community-based environment across Hampshire. Enjoy a fulfilling career that not only enhances your professional skills but also contributes to the recovery and empowerment of individuals facing mental health challenges.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land IPS Employment Specialist – Mental Health Impact in Winchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the mental health and employment sectors. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know. Attend local events or workshops to meet potential employers and make a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Before heading into interviews, we suggest doing mock interviews with friends or mentors. This will help you articulate your passion for supporting individuals with mental health needs and showcase your skills effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Tailor your approach! When you’re meeting potential employers, be sure to highlight your understanding of the IPS model and how it can benefit their organisation. We want you to show them that you’re not just another candidate, but the right fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up! After interviews or networking events, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance at landing that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace IPS Employment Specialist – Mental Health Impact in Winchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for helping people with mental health challenges. Share any relevant experiences or motivations that drive you to support others in their journey towards employment.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your skills and experiences that align with the IPS Employment Specialist role. Focus on your communication skills, empathy, and any experience working with vulnerable individuals.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Be specific about how your background in psychology can contribute to supporting individuals into work and improving their mental health.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, we aim to respond to everyone!
How to prepare for a job interview at Red 5 People
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the IPS model and how it applies to mental health. Understand the key principles behind Individual Placement and Support, as well as the challenges faced by individuals with mental health conditions. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you answer questions confidently.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
Since you'll be working with vulnerable individuals, it's crucial to demonstrate your empathy during the interview. Share examples from your past experiences where you've supported someone through a tough time or helped them achieve their goals. This will highlight your ability to connect with clients on a personal level.
✨Be Organised and Resilient
The role requires managing a caseload and juggling multiple priorities, so be prepared to discuss how you stay organised and resilient. Bring up any tools or methods you use to manage your time effectively, and share stories that illustrate your ability to handle stress and adapt to changing situations.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the role and the organisation. Inquire about the training process, team dynamics, or how success is measured in this position. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you determine if it's the right fit for you.
