We’re delighted at IPS Grow to announce the launch of a brand-new qualification, the Certificate in Individual Placement and Support (IPS).

The first of its kind, this Level 3 qualification has been designed to support IPS Employment Specialists who want to make a meaningful impact in the field of IPS employment support. It provides the necessary skills and knowledge to become proficient Employment Specialists, enabling learners to support individuals in securing and maintaining high-quality employment.

Built by sector experts at IPS Grow, in collaboration with the Institute of Employability Professionals (IEP), the qualification offers a new professional development pathway that recognises the vital work of IPS delivery teams and will give participants a deeper understanding of their role.

Funded spaces are available exclusively for IPS services supporting people with severe mental illness (SMI), or those who have a mental health condition and complex needs.

Niall O’Reilly, Executive Director at IPS Grow said:

We’re proud to launch the first-ever qualification developed specifically for IPS employment specialists—a major step forward in recognising and supporting the incredible work they do. Thanks to funding from NHS England, we’re able to offer this qualification free of charge to those working in services for people with severe mental illness or complex mental health needs. This is a vital investment in attracting and retaining the skilled professionals our communities rely on. We hope to expand this offer to employment specialists supporting other cohorts in the future.

IPS colleagues who have expressed early interest in the qualification have noted the significant impact this qualification could have on their careers and their clients, with one commenting:

I love being an Employment Specialist. This qualification will enhance my knowledge to better support my clients and strengthen the IPS ethos.

Others described how the qualification would validate their role and the broader IPS service:

This role is fully deserving of being a professional qualification. It will validate the service and assist with recruitment too.

These powerful reflections underline the importance of recognising the expertise and professionalism of the IPS workforce as it continues to expand nationally.

Mairi Fraser, Workforce Manager, IPS Grow Social Finance, said:

At IPS Grow, we know how critical the role of the Employment Specialist is to the success of IPS delivery. This new Certificate in IPS not only builds confidence and skills but also provides a professional recognition that supports the growth and sustainability of the IPS workforce nationally. We’re proud to have worked closely with IEP to bring this to life.

Together, we are creating an exciting opportunity to celebrate and strengthen the impact of IPS practice.

We are now accepting applications for future cohorts!

Please sign up to hear more and register your interest – please see the attached FAQs for further information, or email workforce@ipsgrow.org.uk

Sign up today and take the first step towards an exciting future in IPS!

Who is eligible for the qualification?

NHS England has committed to an ambitious aim of increasing the number of people with severe mental illness or complex needs, who are being supported by IPS employment teams (Individual Placement and Support).  Due to this, IPS Grow are helping organisations to expand their IPS workforce and to provide high quality IPS training.

The new IEP Level 3 Certificate in IPS is part of our training focus, and it has been funded for 600 learners over the next few years.  Existing IPS Employment Specialists who are working with individuals who have severe mental illness or complex needs are eligible; if unsure, please contact us on workforce@ipsgrow.org.uk

There may be opportunities to expand this Certificate to additional cohorts and learners in future – discussions are being held due to the high demand in place.

About IPS Grow

IPS Grow is a team of IPS experts who provide expert assistance to support the development and delivery of evidence-based employment services across the health system. We believe that access to the right employment can provide many benefits for people with complex needs, their families, health systems and the wider community. We offer a range of support for IPS providers, health services, Trusts and commissioners such as mobilisation and implementation support, fidelity reviews, training, technical support and workforce strategies.

About IEP

The Institute of Employability Professionals (IEP) is the only professional membership body for the employability sector. We are dedicated to supporting Employability Professionals to develop their skills, build their careers, and deliver high-quality services that change lives. Through accredited learning, professional development, and strong sector partnerships, IEP empowers Employability Professionals to support people into sustainable work across the UK and internationally.

Sign up today and take the first step towards an exciting future in IPS!