We reserve the right to close this advertisement at any time if we receive suitable applications for the role. The purpose of the Employer and Participant Engagement Officer role is to deliver a joined‑up, person‑centred employment service that connects participants to meaningful, sustainable paid work while meeting the needs of local employers. The role exists to actively engage participants, understand their aspirations and barriers, and translate this insight into high‑quality job matching through proactive employer relationships.

By combining participant engagement with employer outreach, the postholder ensures rapid job search, effective in‑work support, and strong job retention outcomes in line with the Connect to Work / IPS model, creating value for individuals, employers, and the wider system Participant Engagement and Support Act as a primary point of contact for participants, ensuring rapid engagement following referral (ideally within 48 hours). Build strong, trusting relationships with participants, particularly those who may feel anxious, ambivalent, or disengaged from employment. Use person‑centred, strengths‑based conversations to understand employment goals, preferences, skills, and support needs.

Sensitively explore barriers such as mental health challenges, long‑term unemployment, confidence, or life circumstances. Explain and apply the IPS approach, including voluntary engagement, rapid job search, and integration with health and community services. Maintain engagement during fluctuating motivation through tailored contact (calls, texts, emails, face‑to‑face) and agreed action plans.

Work collaboratively with NHS teams, community partners, and internal colleagues to ensure coordinated, participant‑focused support. Provide pre‑employment support including CV development, application support, interview preparation, and confidence‑building. Employer Engagement and Job Development Proactively identify, approach, and build long‑term relationships with employers through repeat, in‑person engagement, even when no vacancies exist.

Benefits

of working with the service. Source suitable vacancies that genuinely align with individual participant preferences, strengths, and employment goals. Address employer concerns around additional support needs using IPS‑consistent, solution‑focused approaches.

Identify hidden jobs, job‑carving opportunities, and reasonable workplace adjustments to improve outcomes. Develop and maintain a balanced vacancy pipeline that meets a wide range of participant needs. Provide professional employer follow‑up, including thank‑you messages, updates, and regular check‑ins.

Qualifications

and specific training GCSE grade A*-C (or equivalent) in English, Maths and ICT (Essential) Full driving licence and car (Essential) L3 IAG or equivalent qualification (Desirable) Experience Track record of employer, client and stakeholder engagement (Essential) Evidence of meeting and exceeding targets (Essential) Experience of providing excellent customer service and achieving targets (Essential) Experience of working with Employers/Jobcentre Plus. Health Services: Primary care, mental health teams, and Integrated Care Boards. Social Care: Community care settings and care providers.