A survey of occupational therapists using vocational rehabilitation for individuals with severe and enduring mental illness

Background: Vocational Rehabilitation is acknowledged as a key component in the delivery of mental health services for enhancing individuals’ recovery, health and well-being (DoH 2011). Aim: This study explored the views... [ view full abstract ]

Background: Vocational Rehabilitation is acknowledged as a key component in the delivery of mental health services for enhancing individuals’ recovery, health and well-being (DoH 2011).

Aim: This study explored the views of occupational therapists regarding the success of Vocational Rehabilitation to enable individuals with severe and enduring mental illness into employment.

Method: An online survey generated from McQueen’s (2011) scoping exercise. It was disseminated to members of the College of Occupational Therapists Specialist Section for Mental Health and Work. 75 respondents started the survey.

Results: 52.6% (n=30) of respondents indicated Vocational Rehabilitation was successful to enable clients achieve their vocational goals. 42.1% (n=24,) reported clients vocational goals were partially met. Respondents highlighted complex barriers that impeded the success of intervention for service users.

Independent Placement Support was viewed as most effective approach to Vocational Rehabilitation and respondents highlighted the need for Independent Placement Support to be the national approach to Vocational Rehabilitation in the United Kingdom. The results indicated that a high proportion of respondents used the evidenced based outcome measures.

Conclusion: Respondents felt Vocational Rehabilitation was valuable for enabling individuals to experience work; however some barriers need to be addressed.

Application to Practice: The findings could be used to support the development of future Vocational Rehabilitation practice within the United Kingdom.

References:

Department of Health (2011) No Health without Mental Health, the New Cross-Government Mental Health Outcomes Strategy. London: HMSO

McQueen J (2011) Towards Work in Forensic Mental Health: National Guidance for Allied Health Professionals. Carstairs: Forensic Network