Vacancy at Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust
EPUT is very excited and proud to offer the opportunity to join our IPS in Primary Care / Connect to Work employment service until 30th September 2026. We are open to applications from those wanting full‑time or part‑time hours (minimum 3 days per week).
Job Overview
This service supports people across Essex with mental and physical health needs to achieve and retain paid employment. It builds on EPUT’s long track record of promoting sustainable employment that improves health and benefits the wider community.
The service is called IPS in Primary Care/Connect to Work, and the main focus is to work alongside primary and community health care providers, who will be the main referrers into the service and deliver high‑quality support to help those referred to gain and sustain paid employment.
Responsibilities
* Help people decide on their employment goals, set and achieve goals, including support with job searching, applications, interview skills and ongoing in‑work support after they have found work.
* Build relationships with stakeholders such as DWP, Job Centre plus, voluntary organisations, training providers and local employers to create opportunities and challenge stigma and discrimination associated with mental and physical health needs.
* Work with individuals and organisations in the local community to deliver evidence‑based supported employment (IPS).
* Prepare individuals for employment by assessing needs, identifying strengths, helping with benefits, support networks and travel to work plans.
* Achieve individual targets – number of people supported into employment and number of employers engaged.
* Manage time autonomously, report to the Team Leader via regular supervision and support, and be accountable to the Vocational Manager.
* Promote best practice within mental and physical health and employment in the Trust and local organisations.
Qualifications
Experience in health or social care, recruitment, employment or education services is desirable. Transferable skills that enable people to find and sustain employment are essential.
Support and Development
* Receive supervision and support to help you fulfil your potential.
* Join an inclusive EPUT community and connect with others through engagement events and equality champion networks.
* Access mental health and wellbeing services, occupational health advice and counselling.
* Recognise staff’s hard work and dedication through awards.
Benefits
* 27 days holiday, plus bank holidays, rising to 33 days after 10 years’ service.
* Excellent pension of up to 14.5% of your pensionable pay.
* Staff discounts including Blue Light Card, NHS discount offers, and staff benefits.
* Season ticket loans are interest‑free to cover the cost of travelling to and from work via tram, rail or bus.
Flexible Working
* Work bank: supplement your income and develop skills by working bank shifts.
* Flexible working available from day one for most roles.
* Job share: applications for job shares are welcomed.
Locations
Employment Specialist to cover North Essex (Colchester and Tendring districts) and Mid Essex (Chelmsford, Maldon and Braintree districts).
This advert closes on Monday 18 May 2026.
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