Inclusion and Integration Lead

We are looking for an Inclusion and Integration Lead to support the successful integration of a new employability programme within the wider employment, skills and community support system. This role will help connect employers, referral partners, community organisations and internal delivery teams to create inclusive and sustainable employment opportunities for people facing barriers to work. You will play an important role in supporting programme promotion, referral pathways, employer engagement and partnership working across the region. The post holder will work closely with the Programme Manager, delivery partners and external stakeholders to improve referral flow, strengthen service quality and support positive outcomes for participants., * Support the promotion and integration of the programme across the region with employers, stakeholders, skills partners, referral sources and community networks.

• Help develop and strengthen referral pathways into the programme and wider employment and skills ecosystem.
• Work with referral colleagues to support clear routes into the programme and ensure effective engagement with referral systems.
• Build strong relationships with employers, community organisations, statutory services, VCSE partners and other relevant networks.
• Support employer engagement activity across the wider employability system.
• Work directly with employers to understand recruitment and retention needs and promote inclusive recruitment and workforce practices.
• Help employers create suitable work opportunities that meet both business needs and participant goals.
• Support employers to work towards inclusive employment standards, including Disability Confident and good employment practice.
• Promote diversity, inclusion and mental health awareness with employers and partners.
• Facilitate access to specialist awareness sessions, such as Mental Health First Aid, ASIST and neurodiversity training.
• Support partnership working between employers and local VCSE organisations or charities where this creates additional support for participants.
• Map referral pathways and support clear processes for data sharing, caseworker liaison, programme allocation and employer engagement.
• Support troubleshooting and issue resolution where multiple agencies are working with an individual.
• Maintain accurate and timely records of activity, impact, outcomes and employer engagement.
• Ensure employment opportunities meet fair work, fair pay, safeguarding and health and safety standards.
• Contribute to programme impact measurement by collecting destination data and evidencing outcomes.
• Support participants with health conditions, disabilities or complex barriers to remain in, or return to, sustainable employment through tailored, evidence-based support.
• Promote and uphold safeguarding, equality, diversity and inclusion at all times.
• Travel across the region to provide community-based and employer-facing support.

We are looking for someone who is confident building relationships, influencing stakeholders and working collaboratively across different organisations.You will have experience in employability, careers, supported employment, employer engagement, inclusion work or a related field. You should be comfortable working with employers, community partners and referral organisations to create opportunities for people who may face significant barriers to employment.Essential Criteria

• GCSE Maths and English at Grade C/4 or equivalent.
• Experience of engaging and influencing stakeholders, partners, employers and community organisations.
• Understanding of barriers faced by people seeking paid employment, including health conditions, mental health needs, learning disabilities and complex circumstances such as homelessness, refugee status or ex-Armed Forces background.
• Experience in employability, careers, supported employment or employer-facing inclusion work.
• Strong employer and stakeholder engagement experience.
• Evidence of working in a collaborative, integrated or multi-agency setting.
• Evidence of outcome- and performance-driven activity.
• Understanding of, and commitment to, inclusive economy approaches.
• Excellent communication, presentation and interpersonal skills.
• IT literacy, including Microsoft Word, Excel and CRM systems.
• Adaptable, person-centred and partnership-focused approach.
• Ability to travel across the region and work flexibly.

Desirable Criteria

• Evidence of influencing positive system or practice change.
• Knowledge of SEQF and IPS fidelity models.
• Level 3 Diploma in Employability Services or IAG Level 3.
• Understanding of welfare benefits and employment legislation.
• Accredited IPS, SEQF Level 3 practitioner training or other relevant professional development.

Core Behaviours

• Impact-driven: focused on outcomes that transform lives.
• Resilient: maintains persistence and optimism when facing challenges.
• Ethical and inclusive: champions equality, diversity and respect.
• Solution-focused: uses initiative to overcome barriers and adapt approaches.
• Accountable: delivers on commitments with professionalism and integrity.
• Self-motivated: able to work independently and collaboratively.