What we do
We support people who are receiving treatment from specialist mental health services in Somerset Foundation Trust (SFT) and would like to get paid work or stay in their current job. We work closely with many different employers and other agencies such as JobCentre Plus.
Our job search and job retention teams are based across Somerset in Taunton, Bridgwater, Yeovil and Wells.
Assisted job search teams
Our job search teams work within the evidence based Individual Placement and Support (IPS) Model. Assisted job search can help you to:
- find out what type of job would suit you
- set achievable goals for returning to work
- make paid work part of your plans for the future
- look for work in your local area
- prepare a CV, complete job application forms and prepare for job interviews
- find positive ways to tell employers about your mental health needs by supporting you in your workplace with information and advice for your employer
- link in with Jobcentre Plus and other support organisations.
Before going back to work, we can help you arrange an in-work benefit calculation so you have the information you need about the financial implications of getting a paid job.
This video gives more information and service user experiences of the assisted job search service:
If you are not eligible for our service (for example not receiving specialist mental health treatment from Somerset Foundation Trust), you can access job search support through the Work and Health Programme at your local Job Centre:
Work and Health Programme – GOV.UK
Or at a Community Employment Hub or Job Club:
Get CV Help in 2023 – Somerset Job Clubs
Job retention team
If you are having difficulties at work, we can liaise with your employer to discuss your circumstances. We would get your permission to do this first and decide with you what information it would be helpful to share.
Options to help you keep your job include:
- planning a successful return to work from sick leave
- looking at your work place and recommending ways to make it easier for you to do your job
- support in your workplace
- support you to request reasonable adjustments if appropriate
- working with you and your line manager
- supporting your employer to understand your mental health needs.
Once you are back at work, our support will help you settle into your working environment. When you are happy in your role, we will taper off our support over a period of time, in consultation with you.
How you can access these services
You can get in touch with us or request a referral to us through your key worker in the community mental health service you are receiving treatment from or your in-patient key worker. Or, you can email us at MHEmployment@somersetft.nhs.uk
If you are not involved with specialist (SFT) mental health services, but need in work employment support as a result of mental health difficulties, other health condition or disability, you can self-refer to Maximus or Able Futures.
We try to keep our waiting times to a minimum. If your job is at risk we aim to speak to you or meet you within five working days of receiving a referral for you. Waiting times for other forms of support vary from around two to six weeks depending on demand. We can meet you in our team bases, remotely, at your work or in another community setting where you find it comfortable and convenient.