Changing Lives is excited to announce its launch of our new Individual Placement and Support (IPS) service in Doncaster delivered with our drug and alcohol services partner, Aspire.
This new, and extremely welcome service will offer highly beneficial, intensive, and personalised employment support to people accessing Aspire’s drug and alcohol services. It will include a rapid job search to help people find the right job and significantly, for those who secure employment, continuing in-work help and support to help people overcome barriers and remain in their new role.
Ang Purvis, Employment Service Manager at Changing Lives said: “At Changing Lives, we’re really looking forward to making this happen in Doncaster. For anyone wanting to make a long-term change in their lives and recover from addictive use of drug or alcohol use, getting into the job market can be a significant challenge. The IPS service gives people a much-improved chance of getting a foothold into employment which, after all, can provide the very basics for a better, more stable life.”
"For anyone wanting to make a long-term change in their lives and recover from addictive use of drug or alcohol use, getting into the job market can be a significant challenge."
By using a personalised and strength-based approach to support people, IPS aims to help people find paid jobs within just weeks of being referred to the service.
Stuart Green, Service Manager Aspire said “This is an exciting opportunity to support people registered in Aspire into meaningful paid work and employment, helping them move to long term recovery “
The IPS programme is open to anyone accessing structured treatment at Aspire and the help and support offered by the Employment Specialists includes:
• Tailored support and links with local and national employers to connect people to the right job.
• Meeting with applicants in the community to develop their career.
• Helping prospective applicants develop their CV, prepare for interviews and offer advice on disclosure of information.
• Ongoing support with both employer and employee to ensure the best chance of success.
• Signposting applicants to benefits offices or other services to help financially.
• Supporting employers to develop their knowledge of substance use and how to tailor job opportunities to meet the needs of people.
In addition to helping people find work, IPS specialists engage directly with employers, building relationships to benefit their clients, and provide expert advice around welfare benefits to help them make informed decisions about work.
Employers who have recruited IPS applicants have found that it’s reduced their recruitment time and costs, helping them to find motivated employees who have the right skills and improved the retention of staff.
If you require any information contact:
Katy Smith, Senior Employment Specialist - katy.smith38@nhs.net
