How long have you worked in IPS?

15 months, with 9 as a Team Leader.

What drew you to a role in IPS?

After spending the past 10 years working on various ESF and NCS contracts, I sought a more client-centred environment, focusing on people rather than numbers. I became an Employment Specialist to gain a deeper understanding of the IPS model and fidelity from the ground level. Aspiring to advance into a management role, I eagerly seized the opportunity when it arose. 

What were you doing before you started work in IPS?

I was a Senior Careers Adviser previously working on various ESF and NCS contracts for the previous 10 years covering various demographics including 18-24, 50+, Mental and physical health. Prior to that I worked for the Connexion service as a personal adviser working in schools with young people aged 13-18.  

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

The skill that I have gained whilst working in IPS is to slow down, in previous roles it was very frantic work, with large caseloads and working as a IPS ES the ability to slow down and put the client truly at the centre of the support was the biggest skill I learnt. I have used lots of previous skills from my time as a careers adviser and as team manager in both of my IPS roles. 

What’s the best bit about your job?

The best part of my job is seeing someone start their IPS journey and being unsure how they will see clients, attend meetings, visit jobcentre and fit in employer engagement whilst meeting the 65% community time. Then a few months in, they are achieving the markers we have set and they are also achieving outcomes whilst understanding what is required regarding fidelity. 

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

My standout moment is seeing a new member of staff joining a Community Mental Health Team (CMHT) with a poor history of referring and low outcomes, and supporting them to build relationships. I was also able to help with strategy of how to increase referrals, how to integrate into the local area with employers, and support agencies as well as the DWP. A year down the line and it is now one of the top performing area for referrals and outcomes across the county. It has been great to see the ES go from doubting themselves in the early days as referrals were slow, to now flourishing while maintaining a high standard of fidelity. 

What do you enjoy most about managing an IPS team?

I take great pride in supporting my team, assisting them in problem-solving, and facilitating employment opportunities for individuals. I am passionate about coaching Employment Specialists, helping them adhere to fidelity standards while working in a fulfilling manner that enables them to achieve their personal goals, whether that involves meeting individual targets or progressing to higher roles within the team or externally. 

What was your progression within IPS like?

I started as an ES and progressed to a Team Leader role after 8 months.

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

Get involved, IPS is on an upwards trajectory. Speak to people working in IPS to get first hand information. Then get the application filled in.