Individual Placement and Support (IPS) is an evidence based approach to employment that helps people move into paid work, with the right support in place, at the right time for them. It recognises that work can be a positive part of recovery and wellbeing, not something that has to wait until everything else is perfect.

On the Wirral, IPS is delivered by The Growth Company through Recovery Works, working closely alongside Wirral Ways to provide joined up, recovery informed employment support.

What makes IPS different

IPS is not a traditional employability programme. It is designed around your preferences, strengths, and goals, and focuses on real jobs in the open labour market.

IPS is based on a few key principles:

• Employment is part of recovery

• You do not need to be work ready before starting

• Paid work is the goal, not long courses or assessments

• Jobs are based on your interests and choices

• Ongoing support is available for as long as you need it

• Employment support is joined up with your health and recovery support

There are no time limits or pressure to rush.

Who IPS is for

IPS is suitable for people who:

• Are accessing Wirral Ways or Recovery Works support

• Want to move into paid employment

• Feel unsure, anxious, or lacking confidence about work

• Have health needs, substance use history, or gaps in employment

• May have experienced barriers such as stigma or criminal records

You do not need recent work experience or qualifications to access IPS.

What IPS support looks like

IPS provides personalised, one to one support from a dedicated Employment Specialist.

This support may include:

• Exploring your interests, strengths, and work goals

• Rapid job searching based on what you want to do

• Support with CVs, applications, and interviews

• Help addressing gaps in employment or disclosure concerns

• Linking with employers who understand support needs

• Ongoing in work support once you start a job

• Support for employers where appropriate

• Help balancing work with recovery, health, and wellbeing

Support continues after you start work, helping you settle in and stay well.

Support for employers

IPS also works with employers to create supportive, realistic workplaces.

This can include:

• Advice on reasonable adjustments

• Ongoing contact with the Employment Specialist

• Support to address any issues early

• Helping employers understand recovery and wellbeing

This shared approach helps people succeed in work for the long term.

Working alongside recovery support

IPS is fully integrated with recovery, psychosocial, and clinical support at Wirral Ways. Employment Specialists work closely with your support team to make sure work fits alongside your wellbeing and recovery goals.

This joined up approach helps reduce stress and supports sustainable employment.

Moving at your pace

Although IPS focuses on rapid access to paid work, you remain in control. You decide:

• When you want to start looking for work

• What type of work feels right

• How much support you want

• What success looks like for you

There is no penalty for changing your mind or taking a pause.

Why IPS works

Research consistently shows that IPS helps more people move into paid employment and stay there, compared to traditional employability programmes. It works because it is personalised, flexible, and built around real life.

For many people, employment brings routine, purpose, confidence, and independence, all of which support long term recovery.

How to access IPS

You can access IPS through Recovery Works or by speaking to your Wirral Ways worker, who can help you explore whether IPS is right for you.

If you want to work, or even just start thinking about work, IPS can help you take that step with the right support in place.