We’re recruiting for an IPS Employment Specialist to join a supportive, close-knit team delivering high-quality Individual Placement and Support (IPS) services across Winchester.
This is a community-based role, working directly with individuals experiencing mental health challenges, supporting them into sustainable, meaningful employment as part of their recovery journey.
You’ll be embedded within clinical teams, working collaboratively with healthcare professionals while also building strong relationships with local employers.
What You’ll Be Doing
Managing a caseload of around 20 clients, providing tailored, person-centred employment support
Meeting clients face-to-face in the community to develop career plans, CVs, and job search strategies
Actively engaging with local employers to identify opportunities (including hidden jobs)
Supporting clients with interviews, applications, and in-work support
Providing guidance around benefits, disclosure, and workplace adjustments
Attending clinical meetings and contributing to a holistic recovery approach
Maintaining accurate records using IPS systems and contributing to performance targets
What a Typical Week Looks Like
Around 3 client meetings per day
Minimum 6 face-to-face engagements per week (clients or employers)
Fridays: Team meetings, planning, and admin time (no client appointments)
Regular shadowing, mentoring, and ongoing training provided
What We’re Looking For
This role suits someone who is:
Proactive and self-driven – able to take initiative rather than wait for direction
Resilient and adaptable – comfortable working in a fast-paced, target-driven environment
A strong communicator who can build relationships with both clients and employers
Comfortable with outreach and employer engagement (calls, visits, networking)
A team player who enjoys working collaboratively
Backgrounds That Work Well
You don’t need a degree — in fact, practical experience is often more valuable. We’re particularly interested in candidates from:
Employability / Welfare to Work
Mental Health or Support Work
Recruitment or Sales
Retail or Customer-Facing Roles
Teaching Assistants or similar support roles
Essential Requirements
Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle (travel reimbursed at 45p per mile)
Ability to travel across the Winchester area
Strong organisational and admin skills
Genuine interest in supporting people with mental health needs into employment
What’s On Offer
Salary: £29,343
40 days holiday (including bank holidays)
Mileage paid at 45p per mile
Ongoing training, mentoring, and career development
Supportive team culture with regular supervision and collaboration
The Bigger Picture
You’ll be working to a high-fidelity IPS model, where success is measured by real outcomes — helping people move into competitive, paid employment.
The team works towards achieving 40% of clients entering employment, making this a rewarding role where your impact is clear and meaningful.
Recruitment Process
Interviews taking place mid–late May
If you want a role where you can make a genuine difference, work in a supportive team, and take ownership of your caseload — this could be a great fit.
Please apply via this advert – we aim to respond to everyone. If you haven’t heard back within 72 hours, please complete the “Send Us A Message” form on the Contact Us page of the Red 5 People website, and we guarantee a real person will respond. For more details about the role, please call the office and ask for Lawrence (number available on the Red 5 People website)