Employment Specialist

Employment Specialist – Salary: £30,000 per annum + Benefits.

Location:

covering East Lancashire (including Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn, Pendle and Rossendale).

Regular daily travel required.

As an Employment Specialist, you will champion a strengths‑based approach to employment, prioritising an individual’s potential and working with employers to foster inclusive workplaces where everyone can succeed. This role is about more than just employment—it’s about driving social impact, building confidence, and creating lasting change for individuals and their communities.

• Make a real impact
  :
  Taking a hands‑on, proactive and flexible approach to support individuals with complex challenges to secure and retain sustainable employment.
• Build a supportive culture
  :
  Build strong partnerships with local support organisations and co‑locating to provide seamless support (local government, NHS integrated care systems, voluntary and community organisations).
• Managing a small caseload of motivated participants who have been out of work or never worked due to disability or long‑term health conditions, providing comprehensive tailored one‑to‑one employment support.
• Create In‑work SMART action plans that identify clear learning goals and address any challenges identified during the transition into the labour market to support sustainable employment such as CV creation, applications and interviews, promoting rapid job search strategies, aiming to engage participants with the job market within 4 weeks of programme start.
• Create social change
  :
  Establishing and maintaining strong employer relationships to create job opportunities that align with individual strengths and aspirations.
• Innovate and inspire
  :
  Delivering disability awareness to employers, helping them create inclusive, supportive workplaces.

• A proactive mindset with the ability to adapt to change and think on your feet.
• Strong emotional intelligence
  , capable of handling sensitive conversations with empathy and professionalism.
• Confident communication and presentation skills.
• A solid understanding of employment services, welfare‑to‑work initiatives, and the challenges faced by individuals returning to work.
• Confidence in networking
  , relationship‑building, and engaging with employers and community organisations.
• Excellent organisational and time management skills to manage a busy workload effectively.
• A commitment to continuous development and learning.
• Experience in a performance and quality‑driven environment.
• Awareness of disability policies and employment legislation
  .
• Willingness and ability to travel within the local area.

• Knowledge and experience of the IPS/SEQF models and principles.
• Experience supporting individuals with complex needs
  , including disabilities or long‑term health conditions.
• A background in community outreach
  , stakeholder engagement, or employment services.

• 25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to trade for additional leave.
• EAP Support programme available 24/7, including 6 free counselling sessions.
• Private medical insurance and life assurance
  .
• Up to 2 days of Community Giving (volunteering) each year to support a cause that matters to you.
• Eyecare vouchers to help with glasses or eye care.
• Online shopping discounts.
• Cycle to Work scheme and travel season ticket loan
  .
• Long service awards to celebrate your commitment.
• Salary Finance offering financial education and advice.
• The opportunity to purchase extra benefits like critical illness cover and dental insurance
  .

We understand that everyone’s journey is different, and we’re committed to making our recruitment process as inclusive and accessible as possible. If you require any support or adjustments—whether that’s help with the application or interview format—we’re here to listen and work with you to find the best approach.