Mental illness can be severe and enduring. The symptoms can be so severe that some people are unable to work. But many people living with mental illness are highly motivated to find and stay in employment.
They often hold qualifications, transferable skills, and real ambition. But crucially, they may face extra barriers to meaningful employment, such as stigma, limited opportunities, or low confidence.
At Rethink Mental Illness, we’re passionate about creating a society that truly cares for people severely affected by mental illness.
Our Individual Placement Support (IPS) employment services exist to provide personalised, one-to-one support to enable people living with mental illness to be linked with employment opportunities that are suited to their skills and interests.
"We use work as a powerful tool in recovery"
Watch our video on the importance of IPS services
Our expert employment services
Real stories of work and mental illness
"Sometimes, it’s not the job that’s overwhelming, it’s the social isolation and getting to that job."
Robin was out of work for years when his psychosis and depression was at its worst. With support from our Coventry & Warwickshire IPS service, Robin has regained his confidence and self-belief.
Read Robin's story Read Robin's story
“My life has massively improved since receiving support from the service.”
Daniel, who experiences paranoid schizophrenia, shares how our Coventry and Warwickshire IPS Service boosted his self-confidence. He is now back in work and a part of his community.
Read Daniel's story Read Daniel's story
“I had someone who could advocate for me, even when I didn’t know what I wanted.”
Amanda, who lives with autism, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and ADHD, shares her experience getting back into work with support from our Coventry & Warwickshire IPS service.
Read Amanda's story Read Amanda's story
