Press Release – NEW JOB SUPPORT PROGRAM FOR THE SOUTH
People in Southern Adelaide experiencing mental health challenges will now get extra help securing employment, following the launch of a job placement initiative.
Expanded to the southern suburbs this month, the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) program is an evidence-based initiative that provides personalised employment support to people with mental health struggles.
The program will be delivered by Community Bridging Services (CBS) and Southern Adelaide Local Health Network and was officially launched at a stakeholder event today (September 27).
Through customised help, individuals receive assistance with resume development, job searching, interview preparation, as well as ongoing ‘on-the-job’ support.
Health experts advise that employment is not only vital for social inclusion, but for an individual’s overall health and well-being.
Specialist CBS Inc. staff have been trained to align career opportunities with participant needs and preferences, to help promote job satisfaction and mental health recovery.
Since starting in 2016, the program has provided support to over 650 consumers across South Australia, with 360 individuals successfully gaining employment.
The program is open to both adults and young people experiencing mental health challenges, with young adults receiving support as they transition to adult roles within both employment and education.
As part of the program’s expansion, CBS and the Department for Health and Wellbeing are supporting an industry PhD, led by Flinders University, that will evaluate the programs outcomes.
Consumers of mental health services who are interested in seeking employment can consult with their mental health clinician to determine if IPS is offered at their location.
An IPS consumer stated:
I was referred to the IPS employment program when I was at the lowest point in my life, IPS and CBS have literally been a lifesaver and the catalyst for my ongoing recovery.
Health Minister Chris Picton said:
It’s imperative we support those with living with mental ill health in all walks of life, and that includes employment.
We know the benefits meaningful employment can make to someone’s recovery, and this program will help to break down the barriers faced by those trying to enter or stay in the workforce.
CBS Inc. Founder and Executive Director Freddie Brincat said:
Put simply, IPS works, as does this effective partnership built on ideas and resource sharing between our disability federal funded employment service and community mental health teams.
In regional and metro areas we have proven that a job you like is a key to mental health recovery and to maintaining better mental health.
Southern Adelaide Local Health Network Allied Health Director for Mental Health, Lucas Milne said:
The IPS program is one of the best recovery interventions we have available, and it can have a profound impact on a person’s social inclusion and recovery.
The program is internationally recognized for improving employment outcomes for individuals with serious mental illness.
I am incredibly pleased that Southern Adelaide locals will now benefit from this resource and have access to extra support should they need it.
Interim Director of the Caring Futures Institute, Flinders University, Professor Rebecca Golley said:
Employment is a key means of improving health and wellbeing, by providing a path to financial stability, housing access and social support. Programs to support employment of people living with mental health changes are effective, however sustainable funding models are needed to keep these programs sustainable.
Flinders PhD research will include an investigation of the social return on investment as well as an economic evaluation of the IPS partnership model, thereby helping to inform future service provision and advocate for a streamlined and consistent funding model across Australia.
Contact Detail:
Freddie Brincat OAM, MAICD
Executive Director
0417 882 405
08 8224 2903