Employment Specialist

Final date to receive applications: 29 May 2026

Department: Mental Health and Wellbeing Services

Location: East Sussex - Lewes

Base Salary: £28,640 per year

Technical Premium*: £1,432 per year (5% of base salary, reviewed annually).
* Conditions apply

Essential Car User Allowance: £1,000 per year

Hours: 37 per week

As an Employment Specialist you will work in partnership with Sussex Partnership Foundation Trust, co‑located within the Neighbourhood Mental Health Team, and assist clients in mental health treatment to secure sustainable paid employment. You will deliver the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model, provide person‑centred guidance, build positive relationships with local employers, and support clients in treatment for varied mental health issues.

• Health cost cash‑back scheme: access to our health insurance scheme covering dental, optical, physical therapies and other medical treatments with options for greater cover.
• Interest‑free loans: assistance with larger costs such as tenancy deposits, season travel tickets or buying a car.
• Access to the Easit Network: discounts and incentives on train, bus and car journeys such as 15% off eligible daily and season rail tickets.
• Blue Light card: discount services for the social care sector with savings across thousands of online shops, restaurants, and high‑street vendors.
• Free advice and counselling service: confidential emotional support and practical guidance from our independent telephone service.
• 25 days paid holiday plus bank holidays.

• Exceptional communication skills and the ability to adapt approach to the client’s needs.
• Understanding of the employment needs and challenges for people experiencing mental health issues.
• Knowledge of co‑production principles and a personalised care approach.
• Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (paid for by Southdown).
• A full driving licence and access to your own vehicle or a vehicle insured for you.

• Experience supporting clients experiencing mental health challenges, including those in crisis and/or facing complex challenges.

Our award‑winning in‑house training team will help you to gain valuable qualifications, continually develop your skills and build a great career with the largest provider of housing, care and support in Sussex.