New Program to Support Individuals with Mental Illness

Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) Health Services is announcing the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) Program, a new initiative to support individuals with mental illness by helping them find and maintain employment in the Western Zone.  

“The Individual Placement and Support Program addresses the challenges individuals with mental illness may face in obtaining and maintaining employment,” said Melissa Roberts, regional director of Mental Health and Addiction Services with the Western Zone of NL Health Services. “We are excited to be able to offer this program within the Western Zone as we know that participating in meaningful work with sustainable income has a significant impact on a person’s overall wellbeing and contributes to an improvement in their quality of life.” 

The IPS program is currently available in Corner Brook/Bay of Islands and Stephenville/Bay St. George areas with the intention to expand the program to other communities within the Western Zone this year. For further information, please contact 709-784-6822, or your nearest Mental Health and Addiction Services office.  

The IPS program aligns with recovery principles adopted in the action plan for Mental Health and Addictions Services for Newfoundland and Labrador, which acknowledges that employment is not only attainable but central in the recovery process. IPS program staff members include an occupational therapist and job opportunities officer who engages with employers. Staff members support individuals living with mental illness who enter the workforce to ensure it is a satisfactory and meaningful experience.   

The IPS program replaces the West Lane recycling program which supported mental illness recovery through a community-based recycling program led by occupational therapists. West Lane closed during the pandemic and, since then the IPS program was identified as a more effective approach in helping people with mental illness regain or obtain employment.   

-30-