Working back to wellbeing
General Manager Workwise, Tyron Pini reveals the importance of using evidence-based practice in employment support, when it comes to supporting people with health challenges to return to or stay in employment
The importance of using evidence-based practice in employment support.
When you talk to people often one of the first questions you ask is what do you do? This should be no different for those using mental health services. If people are asked if they are in employment when entering services, the next question should be - and do you need any support to keep your current job or do you want help to find work? If the answer is yes or I’m not sure, then a conversation with an employment consultant should be the next step.
Employment in our opinion is a health intervention, and part of many people’s aspirations. There is strong evidence that good work is good for us.
IPS (Individual Placement and Support) employment support is used by organisations in New Zealand and across the world.
Eight key principles have been identified as offering best practice, or high-fidelity to the approach. These principles have all been rigorously studied and evidenced.
A key principle is that people who want employment support to get it, no matter their diagnosis or life situation. Not everyone wants the same job, and we need to work with people around their own preferences and choices to find the work that suits them, full time, part time in particular industries or locations.
When people find the right job there is then support to assist people to retain work. Best practice is to offer support for as long as people need it, to be there to support as people get used to new work routines and rhythms, and in navigating changed circumstances with Work and Income.
The Asia Pacific Learning Community is for anyone interested in IPS employment support - from practice to research and will soon be running regular webinars to keep people connected. to keep updated with what’s happening.
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You can find out more information about current research here
