Increasing the employment rate for people with longer-term mental health problems

Abstract

Aims and method: To examine the effects of implementing the individual placement and support (IPS) approach within four community mental health teams (CMHTs). Demographic, clinical and vocational data were collected through a repeated crosssectional survey. Additionally, a service user experience survey was conducted. Results: The IPS approach appears to have a significant effect on the employment rates of service users; a higher proportion felt able to return to employment and a smaller proportion believed they were unable to work because of their mental health problems. Employment rates for service users appear to be independent of general employment rates. Clinical implications: Implementing IPS appears to increase the employment rates in CMHTs resulting in increased service user expectations of being able to return to work. Declaration of interest: None.