Employment is important for personal identity and as a source of friends as well as improved income and the benefits this brings. Individual Placement Support (IPS) must deliver the 7 principles of evidence-based employment e.g. we must focus on real employment not voluntary work. The combination of clinical support alongside employment support is vital and we must retain the opportunity to work with anyone who wants to give it a try.

1. ‘ Individual Placement and Support’ evidence based supported employment: What it is and how to flog it! Rachel E. Perkins BA, MPhil (Clinical Psychology), PhD, OBE Freelance Consultant and Trainer Recovery – Employment – Participation Mind Champion of the Year 2010 [email_address] 3 rd March 2011

4. We know it works when we do it properly ... Competitive employment rates in 16 randomised controlled trials

11. A new mental health strategy “No Health Without Mental Health” February 2011 Employment central to mental health and central to mental health services Six core shared objectives - Objective 2 “ More people who develop mental health problems will have a good quality of life – greater ability to manage their own lives, stronger social relationships, a greater sense of purpose, the skills they need for living and working, improved chances in education , better employment rates and a suitable and stable place to live.”