At a Glance
- Tasks: Help individuals in recovery find meaningful, sustainable employment and rebuild their confidence.
- Company: Supportive, forward-thinking team dedicated to making a difference in people's lives.
- Benefits: Flexible working, training opportunities, wellbeing days, and a contributory pension scheme.
- Other info: Join a dynamic service that values employment as a key step in recovery.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by helping others achieve long-term recovery through work.
- Qualifications: Strong people skills, proactive mindset, and commitment to person-centred practice.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Do you believe work can be a powerful part of recovery? We’re looking for an Employment Specialist to join a supportive, forward‑thinking team in Medway, helping people in structured drug and alcohol treatment move into meaningful, sustainable employment. This is a full‑time role (35 hours per week) where you’ll play a key part in helping individuals rebuild confidence, develop skills, and take positive steps toward long‑term recovery through employment. This isn’t just about jobs, it’s about confidence, purpose, and long‑term change.
You’ll work with a caseload of around 25 clients, using the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) approach (full training provided) to help people identify strengths, set goals, and take real steps into work that suits their preferences and recovery journey. You’ll also be out in the community, building relationships with employers, unlocking hidden opportunities, and making sure clients are matched to roles where they can thrive.
Responsibilities- Managing a caseload of clients in structured treatment, supporting them into sustainable employment
- Delivering the IPS model in a person‑centred, strengths‑based way
- Supporting CVs, job searches, applications, interview prep and career planning
- Building strong relationships with local employers and negotiating tailored job opportunities
- Working closely with clinical teams as part of an Embedded recovery service
- Providing in‑work support to help clients sustain employment long term
- Challenging barriers, tackling stigma, and promoting recovery through work
- Strong people skills and a belief in recovery through work
- Confidence working independently and managing a caseload
- The ability to build trust with clients, employers, and clinical teams
- A proactive, solutions‑focused mindset
- Commitment to person‑centred, strengths‑based practice
You’ll be part of a service that sees employment as a key step in recovery, not an afterthought. Every CV written, every interview secured, every job sustained is a real, measurable change in someone’s life. If you’re ready to combine employability expertise with meaningful social impact, we’d love to hear from you.
Benefits- Flexible working
- Training and development opportunities
- Simply Health Cashback Scheme (optional)
- Season Ticket Loan Scheme
- Cycle to work scheme
- Crisis Loan Scheme
- Electric Car Scheme
- 3 x Wellbeing Days (pro rata for part‑time employees)
- Access to Blue Light Card
- 25 days (rising to 30 with length of service) Annual Leave plus Bank Holidays
- Contributory Pension Scheme – employer matched contributions of up to 6% in the first two years of service and up to 9% thereafter
- Death in Service Payment (2x annual salary)
- Critical Illness Insurance (subject to qualifying criteria)
Recovery-Focused IPS Employment Specialist employer: The Forward Trust
Join a dynamic and compassionate team in Medway, where we believe that work is a vital part of recovery. As an Employment Specialist, you'll enjoy a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth through comprehensive training and development opportunities, alongside a range of benefits including flexible working, wellbeing days, and a contributory pension scheme. Here, your efforts will directly contribute to meaningful change in the lives of individuals seeking sustainable employment, making this role not just a job, but a rewarding career path.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Recovery-Focused IPS Employment Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, do a bit of research on the organisation's values and mission. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their recovery-focused team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Role-play common interview questions with a friend or family member. This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and boost your confidence when discussing how you can support clients in their journey towards sustainable employment.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees on LinkedIn or attend local job fairs. Building relationships with people in the industry can give you insider tips and might even lead to job opportunities that aren’t advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Recovery-Focused IPS Employment Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Recovery:When writing your application, let your passion for recovery and employment shine through. We want to see how you believe work can be a powerful part of someone's recovery journey, so share personal experiences or insights that highlight this connection.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure your CV and cover letter are tailored specifically to the role of Employment Specialist. Highlight your people skills, experience with the IPS model, and any relevant achievements that demonstrate your ability to support clients in their journey towards sustainable employment.
Be Person-Centred:Remember, this role is all about the clients! Use your application to showcase your commitment to person-centred, strengths-based practice. Share examples of how you've built trust with clients or helped them overcome barriers in the past.
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 this meaningful role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our values and the impact we make!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Forward Trust
✨Understand the IPS Model
Familiarise yourself with the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) approach before your interview. This will not only show your commitment to the role but also help you articulate how you can apply this model in supporting clients on their recovery journey.
✨Showcase Your People Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your strong people skills. Think about times when you've built trust with clients or colleagues, as this is crucial for the role. Be ready to discuss how you can foster relationships with both clients and employers.
✨Demonstrate a Solutions-Focused Mindset
Employers are looking for someone proactive and solutions-oriented. Come prepared with examples of challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you overcame them. This will illustrate your ability to tackle barriers and promote recovery through work.
✨Align with Their Values
Research the company’s mission and values, especially their belief in recovery through work. During the interview, express how your personal values align with theirs and share your passion for making a meaningful social impact through employment.
