How long have you worked in IPS?

3.6 years.

What drew you to a role in IPS?

I have worked in mental health for 28yrs. I previously worked with older adults and after a long time, I wanted to support adults for a change and a new challenge. I am very passionate about helping people along their road to recovery and feel if I can make a difference to someone’s life for the better then I have done my job. 

What were you doing before you started work in IPS?

Working for the same trust but with older adults.  

What skills have you gained working in IPS, and have you used any prior transferrable skills from your previous work?

I have upskilled myself when it comes to applications and CV’s, and learned a little more about networking and liaising with various agencies. I used all my mental health skills from previous roles and adapted them for this role. 

I also use my system / admin skills for this role. 

What’s the best bit about your job?

Making a difference no matter how big or small. 

Have there been any standout moments for you while on the job?

I worked with an older client who had not worked for some time. Job searching was a challenge for him as he relocated from a different country and lost most of his documents along the way. I liaised with an employer on his behalf and arranged an informal interview. Before leaving the premises he was offered full time work and signed the paperwork on the way out!

3 months later, my client informed me that he was moving to a nice house in a nice area with his daughter and felt that he was able to now look forward to Christmas and treat himself and his daughter to something nice. He thanked me for everything and said that I had changed his life completely and now felt his life was worth living again.

Finally – what piece of advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for a job as an IPS Employment Specialist? 

Be patient and have compassion as everyone’s story is different. Remember that this could be someone close to you.