Preliminary Outcomes from an Individualised Supported Education Programme Delivered by a Community Mental Health Service

Abstract

This paper describes the implementation and preliminary results of a supported education programme designed to complement a youth-oriented supported employment programme. Method: The programme was delivered by occupational therapists employed by a community mental health service in the Hunter New England region, New South Wales, Australia. Twenty mental health service users were assisted with their course of study over an 18-month period. Results: Education outcomes were promising, with 70% of service users either continuing or completing their chosen course of formal study. The education support provided was modelled on the Individual Placement and Support approach to supported employment. Conclusion: Occupational therapists working in public mental health can use this promising approach to supplement supported employment programmes, which should also be closely coordinated with the mental health service.