How long have you worked in IPS?

2 years.

What drew you to a role in IPS?

I wanted to become an Employment Specialist after working within my primary care role, as I loved my role and the support we offered, but often felt restricted by the way we were funded – only being able to offer clients a set number of sessions, set office space for seeing clients etc. After learning more about how IPS works from an ex-colleague who was in an employment specialist role, felt like this would be a much better fit for me as I felt it was a much more person-centred and supportive way of working with people, and aligned with my values and how I like to support people. I also liked the idea of being embedded within a Community Mental Health Team (CMHT) as this allows the clients to have support from every angle they need, rather than relying on you for advice you can’t give. Getting advice and support from clinicians about clients is amazing in terms of how it allows you to support them!

What were you doing before you started your IPS role?

Before working in my current role, I had previous career advisor experience within several settings, including primary care on an IAPT contract, Futures for You on different ESF contracts, and within DWP as a work Coach. 

Were there any transferable skills from your previous work in these industries that you applied to your role in IPS?

The main skill I have learned within this role is how to engage better on a person to person level with the people I am supporting. In my previous role, client interactions were usually target focused/ always had some ulterior motive in the background, whereas in this role it really is all about building those relationships and working the best you can with the person in front of you for no other reason than wanting the best for them. There is also always the offer of ongoing support and training, and we always get asked what we would like to do in terms of skill building.  

What’s the best bit about your job?

Seeing the change in people from when you first meet them. 

That sounds lovely. Have there been any standout moments for you while on the job?

Working with a client who over a period of 6 months went from thinking they could never work as they felt they were too unwell, to supporting them through identifying new career options, facilitating support through our peer support team to help with confidence and motivation, to then starting a voluntary work placement! After 2 months, this work placement led to a permanent role with the employer. This was over a year ago and the client still sends me updates to this day – he has since had an increase in hours to full time, and a promotion. Seeing the change in someone’s life, and how working can affect every aspect in such a positive way is the best feeling.  

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

Go for it, it’s not something you will regret. 

However, just make sure that the IPS model and how we support people really matches what you want from a job. We are all about the clients, which can be a change when you first start if you are coming from some other fast paced/ target driven roles!