
Authors: Priscilla Ennals
Year: 2018
Event: 2018 TheMHS Conference
Subject:
Type of resource: Conference Presentations and Papers
Abstract: Individual Placement and Support (IPS) is an evidence-based model of supported employment specifically designed for individuals experiencing severe mental illness who have the desire to work. Despite strong support for IPS in Australia challenges have been encountered in implementing IPS into practice. Neami National commissioned a study with The University of Sydney to evaluate the outcomes achieved by participants engaged with the WorkWell employment program. In addition to following IPS principles, WorkWell is informed by principles of the Collaborative Recovery Model (CRM). A total of 97 participants were engaged with the program. Almost half of all participants (n=48, 49.5%) gained a competitive employment position in a wide range of roles. Average employment duration was 151 days (21.6 weeks) and average weekly wage was AU$478. These outcomes compare favourably to results reported in the international IPS literature and are higher than outcomes achieved by numerous other IPS programs in Australia. The addition of principles from the CRM appear to have enhanced the ability of job coaches to identify participants’ strengths and desires and assisted in supporting positive outcomes for participants.
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