Implementation of individual placement and support: the Nottingham experience

Abstract

Topic: This case study describes the implementation of individual placement and support (IPS), an evidence-based approach to employment support for people with severe mental illnesses. The case study draws from the literature on implementation and describes lessons learned from the experience of a large mental health provider in urban Nottingham, United Kingdom.

Purpose: To inform those who want to implement a new service or IPS in mental health settings.

Sources used: Research and policy documents published on implementation and employment support, local experience, and fidelity reviews.

Conclusions and implications for practice: This paper adds to the literature on IPS implementation and highlights issues arising from the current UK recession that affect the competition for available jobs and the service context into which the IPS development has been introduced. The future of IPS depends on its acceptance as an essential aspect of mental health services. IPS implementation also benefits with strong leadership, expert knowledge of implementing IPS in the UK context, commitment from senior managers and clinicians, a capacity to train staff according to IPS principles, and integration of rehabilitation services with mental health treatment. Ongoing funding is also a prerequisite to successful implementation.