Job Summary
An exciting opportunity to join the Workways Individual Placement and Support (IPS) team and support Early Intervention Teams within DPT (STEP). Workways are recruiting an Employment Specialist to cover North/Mid Devon. The admin base is Exminster, near Exeter, but day-to-day work will be based within the Early Intervention Team base. The post holder will receive management and clinical supervision from the established Workways team working alongside all adult CMHT teams within DPT. The role involves assisting Early Intervention Team clients to find and receive support while in paid employment using the evidence‑based IPS approach, and providing information, guidance and support to clients progressing with education and training working closely to the IPS principles. Experience supporting employers and helping people with a health condition (preferably mental health‑related) to find employment is essential.
Main Duties
As an Employment Specialist you will work closely with service users, employers, Job Centres and other agencies to deliver high quality, effective employment support using the evidence‑based method of finding work for individuals with significant mental health needs. You will manage a caseload of no more than 20 service users and deliver high‑quality support in a recovery‑focused way. You will provide IPS vocational assessment, work with service users to explore strengths and barriers, co‑write action plans, monitor progress, and provide ongoing support for individuals once they have secured employment to sustain employment. You will maintain professional relationships, run recovery courses and groups, and support employers in recruitment and retention of staff with mental health issues.
Key Responsibilities
* Engage proactively with individuals on caseload to help them achieve employment goals.
* Provide IPS vocational assessment and co‑write action plans.
* Monitor and evaluate action plans to measure progress.
* Provide workplace support and one‑to‑one support post‑employment.
* Run recovery courses and groups on topics such as interview techniques and CV writing.
* Maintain up‑to‑date records and statistics for evaluation.
* Advise and support employers in recruitment and retention of staff with mental health issues.
Essential Criteria
* Knowledge of the IPS approach and early intervention services.
* Experience supporting individuals with mental health difficulties to find paid employment.
* Strong verbal and written communication skills.
* Excellent interpersonal and networking skills.
* Ability to work independently and take initiative.
Desirable Criteria
* Experience delivering training or running groups.
* Knowledge of vocational rehabilitation services and recovery principles.
Qualifications
* Degree in a relevant subject or equivalent experience demonstrating IPS competencies and values.
Employer Information
Devon Partnership NHS Trust – West Pilton, Barnstaple, Devon, EX31 1QL – https://www.dpt.nhs.uk/
Applications from people who require a current Skilled worker sponsorship are welcome and will be considered alongside other applications. For more information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website.
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