Shaw Trust – IPS Focus

Individual Placement and Support (IPS) Focus is a free and voluntary employment programme commissioned by the NHS Bath, North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board.

Shaw Trust delivers the service to help people receiving mental health support find and keep paid work. You can access one-to-one job support in Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire through rapid job searching, help with applications and interviews, and ongoing guidance once you start a role.

The service also works closely with your mental health team so your job search and workplace support match your needs.

Who this is for

To be eligible for IPS Focus, you must:

• be over 18 years old
• be registered with a Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon or Wiltshire GP
• be interested in finding paid work

You must also meet one of the following criteria:

• be currently receiving support from Secondary Mental Health Services
• have complex mental health needs and this is significantly impacting your ability to find and sustain work

The programme is voluntary, so you can opt out at any time if you do not feel it is right for you.

How you’ll be supported

• Personalised career planning: Help with setting up your own vocational plan, tailored to your short- and long-term employment goals.
• Job searches: Support to find and apply for roles, including CV writing and interview preparation.
• Employer engagement: Local employers are approached on your behalf, with support to grow your network and find opportunities that match your strengths.
• In-work adjustments: Ongoing guidance as you transition into a new or changing role.

How this can help you

According to Shaw Trust’s Individual Placement and Support (IPS) report, 73% of people supported into jobs were still in their role 13 weeks later, and the same proportion said that employment improved their wellbeing.