Alison* was referred to Ruah’s IPS (Individual Placement and Support) Vocational Specialist Program after having previously engaged with the program in the past.
During this meeting, Alison shared her background, discussing both her mental health journey and previous employment. She explained that her prior role, obtained with the support of IPS and the MatchWorks employment agency, ended due to a mental health episode. At the time, Alison thought it was best to withdraw from the program to focus on her personal wellbeing before resuming employment. Once she felt ready to return to work, she requested re-entry into the IPS program and expressed a desire to find a job that was more aligned with her personal needs and situation.
Working closely with a MatchWorks Disability Employment Service in Fremantle and IPS, Alison, began her journey back into employment through interview training and identifying suitable roles.
Given her background in hospitality and data entry, Alison began co-ordinating with local employers’ area and successfully built a relationship with the City of Fremantle.
The IPS Specialist supported Alison through her interview with the City of Fremantle and two weeks later, Alison was advised she would be offered an Administration Assistant position. She was thrilled with this outcome and excited to take this next step toward re-entering the workforce.
Alison has now been in the role for a few weeks and is thoroughly enjoying the position. She continues to receive support from both the Ruah IPS team and MatchWorks when needed. The IPS Specialist maintains regular contact with both employer and employee to ensure sustained support is available for Alison as she builds towards her future.
This successful job placement, achieved through the dedicated work of the IPS Specialist, highlights the power of ongoing support and community collaboration. Alison’s courage and resilience show how individuals can overcome significant barriers and achieve positive, meaningful outcomes with the right support systems in place.
*Please note: Alison’s name and identifying details have been changed to protect her privacy.