Individual Placement Support
What is IPS?
Individual Placement and Support is an evidence based, structured supported employment programme. It is recognised internationally as the most effective way to support people who experience a mental illness into paid employment. It addresses the needs of people facing long term disadvantage not only by improving employment opportunities, but by contributing to people’s social inclusion, self-esteem and recovery.
IPS also offers a free bespoke recruitment service to local businesses and employers, giving them the opportunity to employ diverse candidates from their own community.
This service is made available through a partnership of EmployAbility Limerick and HSE Mid-West Community Mental Health Services.
Location of IPS Service’s in Limerick
We currently have two IPS programmes in operation. Limerick city Service is based in Willowdale Day Hospital in Raheen and West Limerick Service can be found in Churchtown Day Hospital in Newcastle West, Co Limerick.
Employment Support
Who can be referred to IPS?
Clients are referred to the IPS only through mental health team in each area listed above, & where they are receiving supports. The service is advertised in these clinics. You can request to be referred by any member of the team, or self-referral.
Who will I meet on my first visit?
You will meet with an Employment Specialist who works with the Community Mental Health Team who will tell you about IPS and start the process of looking for work. You are also free to ask the employment specialist questions or concerns that you may have about the process.
Do employment specialists work with employers?
Yes, but only if you give us your permission. We can help employers find suitable roles for you or understand your mental health needs.
Is there a waiting list?
Yes. There sometimes is a waiting list. The employment specialist can work with a maximum of 20 people at one time.
Where can I find out more?
Please contact the employment specialist or your Local Community mental health team.
Employer Support
Employers can avail or link in with IPS service staff at any time.
Individual Placement Support (IPS) offers the following to employers:
• Access to highly motivated jobseekers who genuinely want to work
• Pre-screening of clients to match suitable candidates to your open position
• Advice on financial and grant incentives available from the government
• No employment introduction or recruitment fees
• On-going support and advice from a dedicated Employment Specialist
• An opportunity to employ from a diverse candidate pool from your own community
If you are interested in arranging a chat with the Employment Specialist, please reach out;
Edward O Shaughnessy
IPS Employment Specialist
eddie@employabilitylimerick.ie
Willowdale Day Hospital,
Raheen, Limerick
Paudie Coughlan
IPS Employment Specialist
paudie@employabilitylimerick.ie
Churchtown Day Hospital,
Newcastle West, Co Limerick
