Supporting people into employment

17th August 2017

As part of our focus on our employment work this week, we hear from an Individual Placement and Support Employment Specialist about how she helps people with mental health problems into work.

Blog by Sharlene Wyllie, SAMH Individual Placement and Support Employment Specialist based in Glasgow.

“I am an Individual Placement and Support Employment Specialist and have been for over 5 years.

“I have never been a person who was a fan of labeling people and always from a young age wanted to be in a position where I was supporting people to achieve their goals and dreams.

“As an IPS Specialist I support people who are referred by community mental health teams throughout Glasgow, and help them find a job. 

“I support people from all walks of life, and no two days are ever the same. I feel privileged to be a part of their story.  

“My favorite aspect of the role is challenging the stigma that many people with mental health problems face, and educating people and employers to share in the positive qualities of each individual client.  

“I was one of the first IPS advisers to start in Glasgow and to work within the community mental health team. When I listen to my clients stories I feel humbled. It makes me want to work that little bit harder to help them achieve their goals.  

“Confidence can often be a barrier for people struggling with their mental health to find and keep a job. The amount of times I have heard people say ‘I don’t want to be any trouble,’ is astounding and shows you the level of confidence that clients have when starting the programme.

“I feel very passionate about my role and look forward to the challenges that come my way when helping to support and inspire clients into realising their true potential.”