Finding employment and keeping it can be difficult for people with mental health problems. An estimated 2.3 million people with mental health problems in the UK are unemployed. This article describes a model of employment support developed in the US that is gaining popularity in the UK. Individual Placement and Support (IPS) provides tailored one-to-one support to help people find paid work quickly and then help them stay there. Employment specialists based in mental health services look at the individual’s interests and skills, help them put a CV together, apply for jobs, and prepare for interviews. They also advise on benefits and liaise with employers to make sure the work environment is appropriate. Importantly, support continues for as long as it is needed after the person starts working. According to randomised controlled trials, an average of 61% of those with serious mental health conditions successfully move into paid work with the help of IPS, compared with 23% for vocational rehabilitation. The Centre for Mental Health is promoting the implementation of the IPS approach within new and existing supported employment services by raising awareness of its effectiveness among NHS trusts and mental health commissioners.
Finding employment and keeping it can be difficult for people with mental health problems. An estimated 2.3 million people with mental health problems in the UK are unemployed. This article describes a model of employment support developed in the US that is gaining popularity in the UK. Individual Placement and Support (IPS) provides tailored one-to-one support to help people find paid work quickly and then help them stay there. Employment specialists based in mental health services look at the individual’s interests and skills, help them put a CV together, apply for jobs, and prepare for interviews. They also advise on benefits and liaise with employers to make sure the work environment is appropriate. Importantly, support continues for as long as it is needed after the person starts working. According to randomised controlled trials, an average of 61% of those with serious mental health conditions successfully move into paid work with the help of IPS, compared with 23% for vocational rehabilitation. The Centre for Mental Health is promoting the implementation of the IPS approach within new and existing supported employment services by raising awareness of its effectiveness among NHS trusts and mental health commissioners.
Subject terms:
mental health problems, mental health services, person-centred care, supported employment, employment;
Cheshire Council's award-winning Link Resource Centre provides a variety of services for its mental health users. One which has particularly helped to boost service users' self esteem and motivation is its catering service.
Cheshire Council's award-winning Link Resource Centre provides a variety of services for its mental health users. One which has particularly helped to boost service users' self esteem and motivation is its catering service.
Subject terms:
mental health problems, mental health services, short break care, supported employment, supported housing, community mental health services, day centres, day services, crisis intervention;