"I have found it refreshing to work with so many positive people who have real ‘can-do’ attitudes."
"I have been working as a mental health professional at Ingeus since December 2007. Prior to joining, I worked as an Occupational Therapist within the NHS’ mental health services.
Although the move from the NHS to the private sector initially felt like a big leap, with lots of differences in policy and procedures (and a lot less bureaucracy), the work itself is similar and I have found it refreshing to work with so many positive people who have real ‘can-do’ attitudes. It is very rewarding to see somebody who was struggling with their mental health achieve their goal of returning to work.
Ingeus really appealed to me because the role and ethos of the company fit so well with the philosophy of occupational therapy. We aim to facilitate a return to valued employment by empowering clients to manage their health condition, focusing on their strengths. I use many core Occupational Therapy skills to work collaboratively with clients, including holistic biopsychosocial assessments. The role involves delivering condition management which allows clients to increase their involvement in a range of activities, and ultimately helps them to move closer to employment.
I work one-to-one with clients with a wide range of mental health conditions, and also run a number of group workshops every month. I work closely with the Ingeus physiotherapist in my area, as many clients have a combination of mental health and physical health needs. I also ensure that employment advisors are involved in the condition management process and liaise with other healthcare professionals, so that everyone supporting the client is working to the same ends to ensure a positive outcome.
Another element of my role involves working with employment advisors to help them develop their skills in dealing with clients with mental health difficulties. I am involved in induction and training sessions, as well as regular ‘case conferencing’ where advisors can discuss particular clients or conditions and approaches to working with them.
I have also established strong links with colleagues in the local PCT and Mental Health Trust, as well as the voluntary sector, looking at how we can work together to promote employment as a beneficial element in people’s recovery.
Ingeus is very supportive of CPD. I receive monthly supervision from an external Occupational Therapist, as well as protected CPD time and support to undertake relevant training."