When Toby first engaged with Wirral Ways, he had been unemployed for around eight months and was keen to return to work but felt unsure about what direction to take. At that point, Toby was managing ongoing alcohol use alongside mental health difficulties, low confidence, and a lack of belief in his own abilities. Having been out of work for some time, he also felt unsure how his previous experience could translate into new opportunities.
Toby joined Individual Placement and Support (IPS) at a time when he was motivated to move forward but needed tailored, flexible support to help him do so in a way that would protect his recovery.
Toby had previous experience in coding and initially considered returning to this field. However, through open and honest discussions with his IPS Employment Specialist, he reflected on the impact that long hours and high stress had previously had on his wellbeing and alcohol use. Together, they explored the pros and cons of returning to this career path and considered whether it aligned with Toby’s recovery goals.
Through IPS, Toby made the decision to pursue a career change and focus on roles that offered stability, manageable stress levels, and a better work-life balance. This felt like an important step in supporting his ongoing abstinence and mental health, and one that Toby felt confident would give him the best chance of sustaining recovery.
At the outset, Toby lacked confidence in how his skills could be used outside of his previous industry. IPS support focused on identifying transferable skills, highlighting the value of his experience, and exploring a wide range of alternative roles where those skills would be useful. Regular conversations and side-by-side job searching helped Toby to rebuild confidence and begin to see employment as achievable again.
Over several sessions, Toby’s CV was updated and tailored to specific vacancies, allowing him to submit stronger and more targeted applications. As his confidence grew, Toby applied for a range of roles and was invited to interview for four positions.
IPS support continued through interview preparation, covering both general interview questions and role-specific questions linked to each employer and sector. When Toby was unsuccessful in his first two interviews, he was supported to view these as learning opportunities rather than setbacks. Together, feedback was reviewed, areas for improvement were identified, and interview techniques were refined.
Toby went on to secure two job offers. One was a part-time role as an exam invigilator, and the other a permanent, full-time position as a store assistant in a local supermarket. Both roles offered good pay, supportive working hours, and opportunities for in-house training and progression.
Toby has fully engaged with IPS in-work support and remains in regular contact with his Employment Specialist. He has now achieved over 13 weeks of continuous employment and enjoys the flexibility and balance that his roles provide.
Being back in work and feeling independent again has had a significant positive impact on Toby’s mental health, confidence, and self-esteem. He describes employment as a key factor in maintaining his sobriety and has remained abstinent for over four months. As a result of this progress, Toby has successfully completed structured treatment with Wirral Ways.
Toby reflects that before accessing Wirral Ways and IPS, he believed he was unable to hold down a job in any environment and felt trapped in an industry that no longer supported his wellbeing. Through IPS, he was able to explore new options earlier than he expected, at a pace that felt right for him, and alongside his recovery.
This story highlights the benefits of IPS as an approach that integrates employment support with treatment and recovery. By focusing on people’s strengths, aspirations, and readiness, IPS helps individuals move towards work sooner, with confidence, choice, and the right support in place to sustain both employment and recovery.
Last Updated on 6 February 2026