More information
Description
With this project we want to contribute to the solution of low employability and employment of people with mental health problems: due to various, often severe and complicated, consequences of mental health disorders on their psychosocial functioning, this group of citizens is among the most difficult to employ and their needs in employment support significant and specific. Although in the Republic of Croatia we have laws and measures regulating supported employment, the system does not adequately and efficiently respond to the specific needs of this user group as well as the needs of relevant stakeholders involved in achieving (successful) employment: employers and other caregivers in recovery, of which work is one of major determinants. Through piloting modern and evidence-based model of supported employment for people with mental health problems, its promotion among professionals and end users, and informing the same groups about the supported employment system and opportunities for its improvement as well as through advocacy activities with key policy stakeholders we will provide new conditions for advancment in supported employment. We will provide evidence and guidelines for the development of services, activate the entire stakeholder community in the field of working rights and its realization for people with mental health problems, and, finally, strengthen the user group for necessary changes. The added value of the activities is the possibility of transferring the model to other vulnerable user groups on the labor market and opening a discussion on the possibilities of implementing the model in the national system of supported employment.
Summary of project results
The project "IPSilon" aimed to address the low employment rates and work engagement among individuals with mental health difficulties, particularly those with severe psychiatric disorders, addiction issues, and related social problems. The project targeted systemic issues that contribute to this problem, such as an underdeveloped and outdated support system for employing people with disabilities due to mental health issues. This system, designed for various vulnerable groups, lacks adequate training and does not meet the specific needs of individuals with mental health conditions. Another challenge the project addressed was the insufficient knowledge, support, and education among key stakeholders in the employment process, including mental health professionals, healthcare and social welfare institutions, decision-makers, employers, the target group, their families, the media, and the general public.
The main goal was to create a support system that aligns with the internal and external capabilities and limitations of people with mental health issues, specifically addressing their unique needs in the workplace. The project aimed to demonstrate that a model proven to enhance employment support could reduce unemployment, foster social reintegration, and promote overall psychosocial recovery for this group. Additionally, the project sought to tackle stigma, self-stigma, and to educate professionals, employers, and the public about the importance of employment for individuals with mental health challenges, aiming to change the societal factors that contribute to their low employment rates.
The project planned to showcase the success of evidence-based employment support models within Croatia''s healthcare, social welfare, and labor systems by piloting the Individual Placement and Support model. Another goal was to raise awareness among stakeholders about the necessity of integrating employment support services into broader care systems to ensure the right to work for individuals with mental health difficulties.
One major challenge addressed by the project was the widespread, but scientifically unfounded belief that individuals with severe mental health issues are unable to work. This perception exists not only among the general public but also within the professional community responsible for their care. The project tackled this by providing information, training, and anti-stigma campaigns. Another challenge was resistance to change within Croatia’s professional rehabilitation system, which relies on traditional vocational rehabilitation methods. These methods have repeatedly proven ineffective in supporting employment for people with mental health difficulties. The project responded by introducing a proven, evidence-based supported employment model that can work within Croatia''s healthcare and social welfare systems.
One of the key activities was the pilot implementation of the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model. This involved providing personalized support to 22 individuals, helping them find and maintain jobs. The project team, which included staff from the association and partner organizations, worked with 30 employers to facilitate these placements. As a result, 10 of these individuals successfully secured employment in various sectors such as hospitality, public services, and retail. The project also involved training and supervising professionals to ensure effective implementation of the IPS model.
In addition to the pilot, the project conducted an analysis of the employment landscape for individuals with mental health challenges in Croatia. This included gathering data from various sources, such as current employment services, independent research, and findings from the project’s pilot. Based on this analysis, the project developed recommendations to improve the supported employment system in Croatia and proposed a national pilot for broader implementation of the IPS model.
The project also organized seminars for professionals to educate them about supported employment and the IPS model. A full-day seminar was held, attended by 25 experts, to discuss employment as an intervention in health and social care.
For the individuals directly affected by mental health issues, the project provided information sessions through workshops and individual meetings. These sessions, which involved 53 participants, aimed to inform and support people in exploring employment opportunities.
To support employers, an informative brochure was created, offering guidance on employing vulnerable groups. This brochure was shared through social media to reach a wider audience.
Finally, the project launched an advocacy campaign by forming an intersectoral coalition of 11 members. This coalition organized a roundtable discussion and an international conference, engaging 125 participants to address employment issues for individuals with mental health challenges. The campaign also included media appearances and online campaigns to raise awareness and influence policy changes.
Through these activities, the IPSilon project sought to demonstrate the benefits of the IPS model, educate various stakeholders, and advocate for improvements in the support systems for people with mental health difficulties.
The project achieved several impactful results for its target groups, including individuals with mental health challenges, those dealing with addiction, and their families. The primary beneficiaries were empowered through various means. They gained increased awareness and support for their rights to employment and recovery. Specifically, 53 individuals received education and information about their employment rights and support mechanisms. Additionally, 22 participants were supported through the IPS model, with 10 securing employment. Four participants actively engaged in advocacy activities, contributing to conferences and online campaigns to raise awareness.
The project also had significant impacts on the broader system. The successful pilot of the IPS model and its positive evaluation increased the likelihood of developing a robust support system for employment in Croatia. The project analyzed the existing support system, highlighting its inefficiencies and proposing solutions to improve it. This research serves as a strong advocacy tool for facilitating systemic changes.
For professionals in healthcare, social care, and employment services, the project provided crucial training and resources. They were educated and motivated to better assist their clients in employment processes. Many of these professionals, previously unaware of the existing support systems or effective practices, now have a clearer understanding of how to aid their clients and are better prepared to support employment reintegration efforts.
Employers also benefited from the project. They received training and information on employing individuals with mental health challenges and creating inclusive work environments. Over 30 employers were involved, and 9 of them hired individuals from the target group. This exposure helped shift attitudes towards employing people with mental health issues and provided employers with practical experience and insights into support systems.
Decision-makers were equipped with evidence, knowledge, and guidelines to improve public policies and regulations regarding employment for individuals with mental health challenges. The project facilitated dialogue with key representatives from relevant ministries, setting the stage for policy improvements and broader implementation of the IPS model.
The media and the public were raised awareness about the issues faced by individuals with mental health challenges. Through various media outlets and educational campaigns, the project increased visibility and promoted understanding of the stigma and discrimination these individuals face, fostering a more supportive and empathetic public perspective.
Finally, the project strengthened the civil sector''s role as a reliable, competent, and innovative partner in addressing social issues. It enhanced intersectoral and international connections, collaborating with organizations like IPS Norge and others, and built advocacy and management capacities within the sector. This collaborative effort has set a foundation for continued progress in supporting individuals with mental health challenges and integrating them into the community.
Summary of bilateral results
The project greatly benefited from having IPS Norge AS as a donor partner due to their essential expertise in the IPS model, which was crucial for achieving the project''s primary goal—testing the effectiveness of the IPS model through a pilot program. This expertise formed the backbone of the project''s design. The key result of the collaboration was the successful achievement of the project''s objectives. The involvement of IPS Norge AS was instrumental not only in the pilot testing but also in areas where their contribution was not initially expected, such as advocacy activities, creating national implementation materials, and speaking at expert seminars.Looking ahead, the plan is to continue involving IPS Norge AS in the implementation of the national pilot program, where they will serve as supervisors and trainers. Additionally, organizations involved in vocational drug treatment in Oslo, which operate based on IPS principles, have shown interest in participating in future projects and sharing their experiences to further develop IPS in Croatia.