Seven clients retained employment in their original organisation. All seven thought they would either have lost their job without the job retention team's involvement, or would have had a delayed return to work and further sickness absence. Four clients obtained new jobs that they thought more appropriate, while two were still looking for work when interviewed. These six clients thought their mental health would have deteriorated without the support provided.
How this fits in
Unemployment associated with mental ill health is widespread and increasing. In Australia, job retention services based on a case management model have proved effective in supporting GPs to prevent the slide into unemployment and criteria associated with effective services have been established. Job retention services based on the Australian model hold promise for preventing unemployment due to mental ill health in the UK, although further evaluation is required to establish effectiveness. Further criteria for effectiveness may include family support and a neutral stance where employers are supportive.
