IPS Employment Specialist

Waythrough, formerly Humankind, launched in October 2024 following the merger of Humankind and Richmond Fellowship. Our vision is to break down barriers that prevent people from accessing support to live fulfilling lives. We address poverty and disadvantage in communities through mental health, substance misuse, housing, and related support services.

We operate nearly 200 services across England, supported by approximately 3,500 staff and volunteers, helping around 125,000 people annually.

As we integrate our systems and processes, some roles may still be branded under 'Humankind'. Our recruitment systems will be fully unified next year.

IPS Employment Specialist - Full Time, 37 hours/week
Fixed Term until March 2026
Location: Lorraine Hewitt House, London, SW9 8DG

About the role

Are you passionate about connecting job seekers with their ideal careers? Do you want to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals facing employment barriers due to drug and alcohol dependency? We have an exciting opportunity at Waythrough as an Employment Specialist in Southwark.

As an Employment Specialist, you will work under the guidance of the Senior Employment Specialist to develop and implement an innovative vocational rehabilitation program in Southwark. This initiative aims to remove barriers and create opportunities for individuals affected by substance dependency to regain independence through sustainable employment.

Key Responsibilities

• Work closely with individuals facing employment challenges due to substance dependency.
• Provide tailored employment support, guidance, and mentoring.
• Lead workshops, job readiness training, and mock interviews to build skills and confidence.
• Establish partnerships with local employers to create job opportunities and foster community support.
• Assess program effectiveness, identify improvements, and contribute to strategic development.

About you

• Proven experience in recruitment, with a talent for matching candidates to roles.
• Passion for social impact and supporting individuals overcoming employment barriers.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to build rapport with diverse individuals.
• Resilience and adaptability to navigate complex challenges related to substance dependency.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.

For the full job description and person specification, please click here . Note: If viewing on Indeed, the link may not work; please apply via our careers page.

The salary listed reflects full earning potential; starting salaries allow for progression within the pay band.

About Waythrough

Waythrough (formerly Humankind) is committed to breaking down barriers to support. We operate nearly 200 services across England, supporting around 125,000 people annually, with a team of 3,500 staff and volunteers.

Our merger with Richmond Fellowship is ongoing, and some branding may still reflect 'Humankind'. We appreciate your patience during this transition.

What we offer:

• A role where you can make a real community impact
• Opportunities for professional growth in substance misuse and criminal justice
• A supportive, collaborative work environment
• Generous leave entitlement (27 days plus bank holidays, increasing to 32 after 1 year)
• Annual leave purchase scheme
• Enhanced sick pay and pension contributions
• Additional benefits: death in service, free will writing, eyecare vouchers, Blue Light Card discounts
• Training and development opportunities
• Flexible working and family-friendly policies
• Wellbeing support including Employee Assistance Programme and support networks

Waythrough is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to diversity and inclusion. For support with your application, contact our Recruitment Team at or email .

Additional details

Salary period: Per annum

Application closing date: 28 July 2025

Role does not require police or prison vetting, and a driving license is not required.

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