Working seamlessly across the public and third sector
Hywel Dda UHB; MIND Cymru; Department of Work and Pensions - Working Collaboratively to Improve Vocational Outcomes for Individuals Accessing The Early Intervention in Psychosis Service
Early Intervention in Psychosis (EIP) services improve clinical outcomes such as reduced admission rates, symptoms and relapse for individuals following a first episode psychosis. An important principle of care is the emphasis on normal social roles, and clients’ developmental needs, promoting recovery and independence; particularly in achieving employment and education. Many EIP service users express a desire to return to work, education or training, however no dedicated in-work support was available which can greatly improve sustainable outcomes for service users.
The Individual Placement and Support (IPS) project, established by Hywel Dda UHB in partnership with MIND Cymru, aimed to strengthen links between the EIP service and third sector organisations, and improve the work, education and training outcomes for service users.
IPS is a tailored approach to employment support, consisting of intensive support to identify suitable paid work, followed by time unlimited support for both the employee and the employer. IPS is seen to be the most effective method of employment support for individuals experiencing mental health problems. Although IPS services are available in England there were no equivalent services in Wales in 2016. This lack of provision provided the impetus for change.
MIND recruited three Employment Support Workers who worked closely with the Occupational Therapist within the EIP Service to deliver the 8 Principles of IPS. The referral criteria was individuals with a First Episode Psychosis or At Risk Mental State who expressed a desire to return to work, education or training.
The project has received 32 referrals during 2018/2019, with 71.9% of individuals having accessed work, education or training. It is hoped that the success of this project will influence the provision of in-work support across the wider adult mental health service.
