Hours: Permanent, part time, 22.2 hours per week, 3 days (0.6FTE)
Salary: Band 4 - £33,002 to £36,636 per annum, pro rata
About the Post
A primary function of the role is to provide advice and guidance to current and prospective students presenting with a wide range of disabilities and specific learning difficulties, to identify relevant support needs. This role is responsible for the arrangement and implementation of reasonable adjustments, regular review of support and making amendments to support arrangements where appropriate. To work closely across University departments to ensure that individual students’ support requirements are met. To deliver required staff training and support the process of matching support staff with student requirements.
The post-holder will work closely with the student community, academic schools, and relevant departments to further develop the understanding of inclusivity and to promote the services available to all students. Additionally, the role will contribute to the general wellbeing of students, by designing and delivering initiatives that promote health and well‑being.
The appointment requires a flexible approach to working hours as there will be some out‑of‑hours work. For example, Open events.
About the Team
The Department of Student Life comprises multiple teams of professionals committed to delivering an excellent student experience.
We aim to provide high‑quality information, advice, guidance, and support services across the following areas:
- Engaging with and navigating through all aspects of university life.
- Student finance advice and signposting to support and funding.
- Delivering pastoral support and peer support programmes.
- International student support and exchange opportunities.
- Championing equality, diversity, and inclusion.
- Promoting positive health and wellbeing.
- Learning difficulties screening and diagnosis.
- Disability, wellbeing, mental health, and counselling services.
- Supporting students with emerging or enduring mental health conditions.
- Safeguarding and protecting students through direct intervention, signposting or referring to specialist services.
About You
- You will have a thorough understanding of the needs of students with a wide range of disabilities, mental health conditions and specific learning difficulties and can provide advice to enable students to make informed choices.
- You will have a passion for supporting inclusive education and a positive University experience for all.
- You are confident implementing and facilitating the delivery of services to students or prospective students on either a one‑to‑one basis or by leading group workshops.
- You can creatively design and deliver workshops, training and CPD sessions for staff to raise awareness of disability and embedding inclusivity in learning and teaching.
- You are a competent and confident user of ICT and case management/student record systems and understand the importance of accurate and timely support records.
- You have experience of completing administrative and compliance linked tasks to a high standard according to policy/process.
Benefits
- Generous annual leave entitlement of 25 days for Bands 1‑4 and 30 days for Bands 5 and above, plus 8 bank holidays and any university closure days.
- Enjoy an extra day of paid leave on your birthday, subject to qualifying/service conditions.
- Flexible working, including family friendly policies.
- Competitive workplace pension scheme (USS) – with an employer contribution rate of 14.5%, tax relief on contributions and life cover.
- Staff discounts at a number of local amenities in Ipswich.
- Discounted membership at Adastral Park Leisure and Sports.
- Access to a range of high‑quality learning and development opportunities.
- Discounted rates for staff approved to study a UoS undergraduate or postgraduate course, subject to a set of criteria and conditions.
- Cycle to Work scheme.
- Electric vehicle salary sacrifice.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).Staff recognition annual awards.
Closing Date: Wednesday 5 August 2026
Interview Date: To be confirmed
We are a values‑driven organisation, committed to ensuring we remain a beacon for aspiration and achievement, while providing a great environment to work and study. We are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community and we encourage applications from under‑represented groups.
Disability & Wellbeing Advisor in Ipswich employer: University of Southampton
The University of Southampton is an outstanding employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters creativity and collaboration among its staff. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities and professional training, all while contributing to impactful marketing strategies that shape the future of education. Located in a vibrant city, the university promotes a healthy work-life balance and values diversity, making it an ideal place for passionate individuals looking to make a difference.
