If you have a background in social care or mental health and want to work for an employer that genuinely puts people before profits, this is a rare chance to join a leading national charity. Change Grow Live (CGL) is known for its non-judgmental approach to addiction and recovery, and their Manchester service is a high-impact hub where your work directly changes the trajectory of lives in the local community.
The role comes with a competitive salary of up to £32,002 and a benefits package that prioritises your own mental health as much as the service users. With an extra wellbeing hour every week and a focus on flexible working, this position is designed for professionals who want to make a massive difference without burning out. Perhaps most significantly for international applicants, this is one of the few charity-sector roles currently offering clear pathways for visa sponsorship.
While many healthcare roles are stuck in clinical silos, this position offers a curiosity element that keeps the work fresh. You will be working across harm reduction, housing support, and criminal justice, meaning no two days are ever identical. It is a role for someone who is empathetic but resilient, and who wants to be part of a team that celebrates every small victory on the road to recovery.
Job Overview
| Job Title | Employer | Location | Salary | Contract Type | Hours | Visa Sponsorship Status | Closing Date | Interview Date |
| Specialist Recovery Practitioner | Change Grow Live | Manchester | £27,861 – £32,002 | Permanent | 37.5 per week | Visa Sponsorship Available | Not specified | Not specified |
What You’d Actually Be Doing
- Conducting initial assessments by meeting with new service users to understand their history with substance use and identifying the immediate risks they face.
- Building recovery plans that are tailored to the individual, ensuring they have a roadmap that includes medical treatment, housing advice, and emotional support.
- Facilitating group sessions where you lead discussions on harm reduction and coping strategies, managing the group energy to keep the environment safe and productive.
- Providing one-to-one coaching to help individuals navigate the difficult early stages of sobriety, acting as a steady point of contact during their most vulnerable moments.
- Collaborating with external partners such as GPs, housing officers, and the police to ensure that the service user has a joined-up support system.
- Maintaining accurate digital records to track progress and ensure that all information governance rules are followed, which is vital for securing continued funding for the service.
Who They’re Looking For
Must-haves:
- A relevant qualification in health and social care or equivalent experience in a similar setting.
- Clear understanding of the challenges faced by people with substance misuse issues.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to use digital recording systems.
- Strong interpersonal skills with a knack for building trust quickly with diverse groups of people.
Nice-to-haves:
- Previous experience working specifically within a drug and alcohol service.
- Knowledge of the local Manchester support network and community resources.
- Training in specific interventions like Motivational Interviewing or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
If you are worried that you do not have every single “nice-to-have” on this list, do not let that stop you. Change Grow Live values lived experience and passion as much as formal certificates.
What Most Applicants Get Wrong
- Over-focusing on clinical experience while ignoring the human element. This role is about building relationships and trust, not just ticking medical boxes. Your application should show how you connect with people.
- Failing to research the Change Grow Live values. This charity is driven by a very specific set of values regarding respect and non-judgment. If your application sounds too corporate or detached, it will likely be rejected.
- Not being prepared for the “conflict” question in interviews. Working in recovery often involves managing challenging behaviour. If you cannot provide a clear, calm example of how you have handled a difficult situation, you will struggle to get the job.
How to Apply (and Actually Get Noticed)
- Review the full job description on the official CGL website to understand the specific Manchester service requirements.
- Tailor your CV to emphasise any experience you have with “case management” and “harm reduction.”
- Write a covering letter that explains why you are passionate about the recovery sector specifically, rather than just general social care.
- Submit your application through the CGL recruitment portal, ensuring all sections are completed fully.
- Follow up after a week if you haven’t heard back, as this shows genuine interest in the role.
Visa and Eligibility
This role is open to applicants who require visa sponsorship, provided they meet the UK Home Office criteria for a Skilled Worker visa. Change Grow Live is a licensed sponsor and is actively seeking a diverse workforce. You can check the latest government rules on the official UK Skilled Worker Visa page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to the most common questions people ask about this Specialist Recovery Practitioner role at Change Grow Live, including eligibility, interview format, visa requirements and what to expect from the application process.
Does Change Grow Live provide visa sponsorship for this role?
Yes, Change Grow Live is a licensed sponsor and can offer sponsorship to international candidates for this specific position if they meet the UK immigration requirements.
What is the salary for a Specialist Recovery Practitioner in Manchester?
The salary for this position ranges from £27,861 to £32,002 per year depending on your previous experience and qualifications.
Do I need a social work degree for this role?
No, while a degree is helpful, Change Grow Live often accepts equivalent experience in substance misuse or mental health services in place of a formal social work degree.
What is the interview format for Change Grow Live?
The interview usually consists of a formal panel discussion where you will be asked competency based questions about managing risk and working with vulnerable adults.
Are there flexible working options for this role?
Yes, CGL is known for its commitment to work life balance and offers various flexible working arrangements to help staff manage their home lives.
Is Manchester a good place for international healthcare workers?
Manchester is a highly diverse city with a lower cost of living than London and a large community of international professionals working in the health and social care sectors.
How long does the recruitment process take at CGL?
The process from application to offer typically takes between four and eight weeks, though this can vary depending on how quickly references and background checks are returned.
What are the main challenges of this role?
The primary challenge is managing a busy caseload and dealing with service users who may be in high levels of distress or displaying challenging behaviours.
Official Application Link
You can find the full details and the online application form here: Specialist Recovery Practitioner at Change Grow Live Manchester
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