Connect IPS Employment Specialist

Connect To Work IPS Employment Specialist

Permanent contract

Support people with health-related needs to find meaningful, sustainable work as an IPS Employment Specialist with Standguide in Leicestershire.

Deadline: 9th November 2026

• East Midlands
• Full-time

Job overview

For more than three decades, Standguide has supported individuals and employers across the UK. We provide employment, skills and support services that help people overcome barriers, develop their potential and move towards sustainable employment.

As an employee-owned organisation, we’re committed to investing in our people, delivering high-quality services and creating positive outcomes for the communities we support.

Role

Make a difference through meaningful employment

Are you passionate about helping people achieve their goals and find meaningful work? As an Employment Specialist, you’ll support individuals with health-related needs to secure sustainable, fulfilling employment that matches their skills and aspirations.

You’ll be trained in the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) approach — a proven model focused on person-centred guidance and practical, empowering support.

Working closely with clients, employers, and referral partners, you’ll build strong relationships that open doors to new opportunities.

Responsibilities

As an IPS Employment Specialist, you’ll:

• Manage a caseload of up to 25 clients who have health support needs who are motivated to start/return to work
• Deliver the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) approach for which training will be given
• Meet and support clients to understand their key skills, aspirations, and goals through completing a Vocational Profile and produce an Action Plan to help them obtain and sustain competitive employment. This includes support with their job search, CV production, application forms, interview techniques and career development
• Attend regular multidisciplinary team meetings with key partners as an embedded IPS practitioner
• Source job opportunities for clients through tailored job search and regular contact with local employers to explore hidden as well as advertised employment opportunities
• Provide education and support to employers, as agreed with the individual, which may include negotiating adjustments, return to work strategy and on-going contact with the employer to ensure job retention.

The person

We’re looking for someone who has:

• Educated to a degree level or equivalent experience
• Desirable – trained in IPS approach
• An understanding of the employment needs, and challenges faced by people who experience health difficulties
• Experience/understanding of working with people with health support needs, or a similar client group within health, social services, or the voluntary sector
• Natural ability to build close, trusting, and productive relationships with people
• Ability to work independently and use initiative to develop and promote a service
• A full driving licence and access to a vehicle are required. Alternative travel arrangements and reasonable adjustments will be considered where appropriate.
• Overseas equivalent qualifications will be considered