Spotlight on Stewart: A Journey of Passion and Purpose

Stewart’s story shows how important it is to do work you love. Many people aren’t happy with their jobs, but Stewart found real satisfaction by following his passion. His journey, marked by a shift from the disillusionment of his previous roles to the meaningful work he now finds working as a Lead in IPS Grow, is an inspiring tale of personal growth and professional transformation.

“Find something you’re passionate about.”

The Journey

A key turning point in Stewart’s career came during his time working for a pharmaceutical company for 2 years in Germany. This experience made him question the direction of his work and ultimately led him to the realisation that he wanted to pursue more meaningful employment. As an Employment Specialist, helping a client with complex needs find a job through the IPS model proved to be a pivotal moment. It was a powerful demonstration of the transformative potential of this approach, instilling a strong sense of confidence in the lives it can change.

Stewart’s decision to pursue a career in IPS was sparked by a growing dissatisfaction with his previous work for a work-programme provider. He felt that the work he was doing there, while important, did not create the kind of real, lasting change he longed to see in people’s lives. It was during this period of self-reflection that he discovered the IPS model, which immediately resonated with him. The smaller caseloads and the opportunity to build genuine relationships with clients were exactly what he had been searching for.

Stewart’s career progression has been marked by a steady climb from his initial role as an Employment Specialist to the one he holds now as a Regional Lead. Along the way, he’s refined his skills in team management and reporting and has a deep understanding of the IPS principles and fidelity model. This growth has not only benefited his own professional development but has also allowed him to contribute to the success of the teams and services he supports.

The tangible impact he sees in the services he supports keeps Stewart motivated and passionate about his work. Witnessing the improvements in these services and the positive changes in the lives of the clients is a constant source of inspiration for him. While the transition to a more isolated Regional Lead role has offered its challenges, Stewart has found ways to stay connected to the teams he supports, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. According to Stewart, the team culture within IPS Grow has been a significant factor in his journey. He describes it as an inclusive and welcoming environment where a supportive and passionate team motivates him to embody those same qualities in his interactions. This sense of camaraderie and shared mission has been instrumental in helping Stewart navigate the highs and lows of his career.

While Stewart’s professional life has been filled with meaningful work, he also has a creative spirit. His home is filled with a love for sports, the sounds of music, and a smattering of chaos as a dad to 4 boys.

The Excitement of What’s to Come

As Stewart looks to the future, he’s excited by the prospect of continuing to grow and develop within the IPS field. Whether it’s progressing at IPS Grow, managing a team again, or exploring a role in commissioning, he is driven by a desire to deepen his understanding of the NHS and the decision-making processes that shape the provision of these vital services.

Stewart’s story powerfully reminds us that the rewards can be truly transformative when we find work that aligns with our values and passions. His journey from disillusionment to fulfilment inspires those seeking more meaning and purpose in their careers. By sharing his experiences, Stewart encourages others to embrace the path less travelled and to find the joy and satisfaction that can come from truly meaningful work.