Employment Coach

CONTEXT: Bryson Pathways has developed an innovative approach to supporting individuals and families in crisis. The Root Cause model of delivery has the purpose of ending poverty at its root cause by breaking generational cycles of high deprivation in priority areas. We aim to make the greatest difference to the greatest need through providing multiple points of entry for targeted support in Root Cause communities.

MAIN TASK: The Community Employment Navigator will engage individuals from communities experiencing high levels of deprivation, supporting them on their journey towards employment. The role involves guiding individuals from initial engagement through skills development, training, and ultimately securing sustainable employment. This includes facilitating employment-focused training academies, helping participants gain qualifications, and building relationships with employers to create job and work experience opportunities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Engagement & Support for Individuals

• Actively engage individuals in Root Cause communities who are unemployed or underemployed, supporting them to develop a personalised employment pathway.

• Provide 1-1 and group-based support, including CV building, interview preparation, job searching, and career guidance.

• Identify and address barriers to employment, referring participants to additional services where needed (e.g., childcare, mental health support, financial advice).

• Monitor participant progress, adjusting support plans to ensure long-term employability and stability.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Provide direct support to 75 individuals across Root Cause communities.

• Successfully assist 20 individuals in securing paid employment.

• Support 60 individuals in obtaining an employment-related qualification.

• Establish 8 new employer pathways to create opportunities for service users in Root Cause areas.

Facilitation of Employment Training Academy Programmes

• Support the delivery of employment training academy programmes designed to equip individuals with skills, accredited qualifications, and workplace readiness.

• Work in collaboration with training providers to ensure participants receive relevant and high-quality training.

• Facilitate workshops and employability sessions focused on practical workplace skills and confidence-building.

• Ensure all training and employability interventions align with industry needs and labour market trends.

Employer Engagement & Job Development

• Build and maintain strong relationships with local and regional employers willing to provide work placements and job opportunities for participants.

• Act as a liaison between employers and participants, ensuring smooth transitions into employment.

• Advocate for fair and inclusive hiring practices, promoting the benefits of hiring from diverse backgrounds.

• Develop work experience opportunities that help participants build confidence and workplace skills.

Collaborative Working & Service Development

• Work closely with other Root Cause team members, ensuring a joined-up approach to addressing poverty and unemployment.

• Contribute to the ongoing development of Bryson Pathways’ employment initiatives, using participant feedback and labour market insights.

• Maintain accurate records of participant progress, outcomes, and employer partnerships, contributing to programme evaluation and reporting.

• Represent Bryson Pathways at community events, employer networking meetings, and sector forums.

There are several standard duties and responsibilities that all employees irrespective of their role and level of seniority within Bryson Pathways are expected to be familiar with and adhere to:

• Participate in relevant training when required.

• Follow Health & Safety policies and procedures at all times.

• Carry out other relevant tasks as required.

• Promote and uphold diversity, equality, and inclusivity in service delivery and team interactions.

• Maintain strict confidentiality, sharing information only in line with official duties and data protection regulations.

• Adhere to Bryson Pathways’ policies on appropriate use of telephone, email, and internet facilities.

• Follow risk management principles in both individual and corporate responsibilities.

• Comply with all organisational policies and procedures.

• This job description is a broad picture of the post at the date of preparation. It is not exhaustive and as such, the post holder will be expected to be flexible. It is recognised that jobs change and evolve over time and any necessary changes will be discussed with the post holder.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

• This post involves regulated activity under the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups (NI) Order 2007, as amended by the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012. Individuals barred from working with children or vulnerable adults must not apply.

• Bryson Pathways Sick Pay Scheme applies.

• Bryson Pathways Pension Scheme applies.

• Bryson Pathways operates a no-smoking policy – employees are expected not to smoke during working hours.

• Employees must respect individuals’ rights to privacy, dignity, choice, and independence.

• All staff working in Bryson Pathways must complete an Access NI check before employment.

• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as required to meet the needs of the role.