Many people who access mental health and addiction services say they want help in getting and keeping a job, and see it as an important part of their recovery.
We are passionate about, and committed to, supporting people to get and retain the right job.
The Trust set up its Employment Services in 2004 and has since then supported over 2000 people into paid employment in a range of industries.
Working closely with each individual to match the person, ambition and employment goal, CNWL’s Employment Services now provide the following:
- Trained employment specialists (ES) being based in mental health and addiction teams. Research has shown that having an ES in treatment teams results in more people getting back to work
- Employment specialists playing a key role in building relationships with local employers to access the ‘hidden’ labour market, as up to 70% of jobs are never advertised
This website provides information for people using services, carers, employers, and partner agencies on how our services work and on the research evidence behind our approach. Information about other agencies that can support people to get back to work, or keep an existing job, is also included.
CNWL has been recognised for its work in implementing employment services since 2010, when we became part of the Centre for Mental Health IPS Centre of Excellence Programme. For more information go to the Centre of Excellence Programme website.
If you are an employer we can offer a free recruitment service, providing suitable candidates, matched to your vacant positions. For more information please contact: Kyriacos Colocassis on gary.
We're recruiting - Make a real difference through meaningful work
We’re growing our IPS Employment Service at CNWL and are looking for passionate people to join our team.
We are currently recruiting for Employment Specialists in Milton Keynes.
About the roles
As part of our IPS (Individual Placement and Support) service, you’ll work directly with individuals on their recovery journey, helping them to identify their strengths, develop skills, and access real, paid employment opportunities.
Depending on the role, you will bring either:
- Professional experience in supporting people into employment (Employment Specialist), or
- Lived experience of recovery, using your own journey to inspire and support others (Peer Employment Specialist)
Both roles are equally valuable and play a vital part in helping people move forward with confidence.
What you’ll be doing
🌱 Support individuals on their recovery journey
💼 Help people find and sustain meaningful employment
🤝 Build trusting, person-centred relationships
📈 Empower people to develop confidence, skills, and independence
You’ll be part of a supportive, values-driven team where your work has a genuine and lasting impact.
How to apply
We use a simple, supportive two-step process:
👉 Step 1: Submit a short Expression of Interest Form
👉 Step 2: If shortlisted, you’ll be invited to complete a full application
Before applying, we recommend reviewing the job description and person specification for your role of interest.
Watch our short video to learn more
Browse through our quick links section below for more information about how our Employment Services provide support.