IPS Employment Specialist
The closing date is 07 May 2026.
IPS (Individual Placement and Support) is an evidence‑based approach to helping people with mental health conditions find and maintain paid employment. Having a job offers numerous benefits, aiding recovery for many individuals.
Currently only about 8 % of people receiving support from secondary mental health services are in paid employment, whereas almost 90 % of people with serious and enduring mental health conditions want to work. To support this demand, we are expanding our IPS service and seek permanent IPS Employment Specialists in the following locations: York, Northallerton, Harrogate and Ripon, Scarborough, Whitby and Ryedale.
You must have the Right to Work in the UK. This role is not eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa.
Main duties
* Support clients with job searching, CV and application preparation, and interview skills.
* Collaborate with Jobcentre Plus, employers, trade unions and employment agencies to secure and retain paid employment opportunities for up to one year.
* Maintain ongoing monitoring and support systems post‑employment, reviewing outcomes and addressing issues for both employers and clients.
* Promote disability awareness among employers to facilitate positive workforce integration.
* Apply high standards of practice, comply with relevant legislation, and participate in regular training and clinical supervision.
* Travel independently across the locality and maintain access to a suitable vehicle for business purposes; adjustments can be considered in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.
Person specification
Qualifications
* Numeracy and literacy level 2 (or above).
* Minimum level 4 qualification related to IPS practice (e.g., Level 4 Certificate of Higher Education, higher apprenticeship, higher national certificate).
* Or a minimum of 2 years of experience in employment support, health/social care support, or coaching/advice & guidance.
* Evidence of additional relevant qualifications.
Skills
* Collaborative teamwork with the multidisciplinary team.
* Competent delivery of employment support interventions.
* Effective verbal and written communication tailored to individuals.
* Adherence to Trust record‑keeping standards.
* Adaptability within own scope of practice.
* Prioritisation and caseload management.
* Compliance with statutory and mandatory training.
* Completion of “Doing What Works” IPS course.
* Leadership of group sessions or training.
* Proficiency with employment‑related software platforms.
* Demonstration of IPS and service‑specific competencies.
Personal attributes
* Awareness of diverse social, ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
* Empathy and compassion for vulnerable people and their families.
* Self‑awareness and commitment to personal development.
* Capacity for flexible, cooperative teamwork.
* Ability to work independently with initiative.
* Resilience under pressure in a rapidly changing environment.
* Continual quality and service improvement ethos.
* Promotion of a positive image for people with mental health conditions and for IPS and the Trust.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and requires a D&B check for any previous convictions.
Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust
£28,392 to £31,157 a year pro‑rate.
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