At The Forward Trust, we're looking for compassionate, motivated Employment Specialists to join our Connect to Work team across Thanet, Dover and Folkestone / Hythe.
This is a full‑time role working 35 hours per week, though part‑time or reduced hours may be considered.
You will support people facing barriers to employment, including mental health challenges, long‑term health conditions, disabilities and other life circumstances, helping them find meaningful work, sustain employment and progress toward greater independence.
Responsibilities
* Manage your own caseload and provide personalised support throughout each participant's employment journey, including CV writing, job applications and interview preparation.
* Career coaching, confidence building and job searching.
* Deliver one‑to‑one and group support sessions.
* Build relationships with local employers and identify opportunities.
* Support inclusive workplaces and reasonable adjustments.
* Provide in‑work support to help people sustain and progress in employment.
* Work closely with community organisations, health services and training providers to remove barriers and create joined‑up support.
* Full IPS / Connect to Work training will be provided, along with ongoing development and support.
Experience Required
* Employability or recruitment experience.
* Health, wellbeing or support services experience.
* Adult learning or skills programmes experience.
* Coaching, mentoring or support work experience.
* Full UK driving licence; access to a vehicle essential.
Skills & Attributes
* Strong communication and relationship‑building skills.
* Confidence working with people from diverse backgrounds.
* A positive, supportive and person‑centred approach.
* A genuine belief that everyone deserves access to employment opportunities.
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 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' service and up to 9% thereafter.
* Death in Service Payment (2x annual salary).
* Critical Illness Insurance (subject to qualifying criteria).
Equal Opportunities
The Forward Trust commits to providing opportunities to everyone. We want to ensure we have a diverse team with a range of lived and professional experiences, including those with 'Lived Experience' of addiction, offending, or homelessness.
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