IPS is an evidence-based practice method that was originally developed for use with clients with severe mental illness with a focus on rapid employer engagement. Recovery programs for clients with mental illness using vocational and employment pathways were originally developed in social enterprises four decades ago.

Our new Individual Place and Support (IPS) Guide for non-mental health staff, vocational and employment professionals provides guidance and importantly addresses the elephant in the IPS room - the absence of vocational methodology for non-mental health staff, vocational and employment professionals.

Based on our work with this client cohort in the field and the evidence for practice with clients with mental illness, the guide covers:

Recently published evidence from the USA supports our approach to supporting vocational and employment specialists and highlights the benefits of practice-informed evidence and research.

These skills and knowledge will be invaluable for employment staff working across the broad spectrum of clients that utilise employment support. It will also facilitate a closer working alliance with mental health specialists where that opportunity exists, particularly in these challenging times.

For employment staff working in regional or remote locations without access to mental health facilities or programs, the guide will provide valuable skills and insight to assist you to work effectively with clients who present with mental health issues.

The guide offers vocational and employment professionals appropriate knowledge and guidance when access to mental health professionals is either restricted or non-existent for employment clients.