Mental health vocational rehabilitation–occupational therapists’ perceptions of individual placement and support

Research purpose: Vocational rehabilitation (VR) has been the focus of recent UK government policy, which outlines objectives to support individuals with mental illness into work. To provide such support, individual placement and support (IPS) as one approach, is frequently referred to. This has ignited both discussion and research within the occupational therapy (OT) profession to re-examine its contribution to VR and consider IPS as part of its practice. Aim: To explore occupational therapists’ (OTs) perceptions about their role within mental health (MH) VR and IPS. Method: Semi-structured interviews were used to generate data in this qualitative study. The interview transcripts were subject to thematic framework analysis. Findings: The findings revealed similarities and compatibility with OT and IPS. Participants acknowledged the value of IPS for clients who wish to obtain paid employment but also recognized the value of all worker roles which is in keeping with the professions values. Conclusion: The findings are congruent with discursive literature regarding OT and VR. Consideration given by OTs to the uniqueness and complexities of work as an occupation reinforces their distinct contribution to VR and could extend to IPS. Further research is needed to verify and extend this study's findings.