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A Literature Review of Individual Placement and Support (IPS) for Forensic Patients and Implications for Future Research

Esther Dark*

The positive correlation between work and health is widely acknowledged and evidenced; and a strong predictor for successful community integration for forensic patients. Conversely, a lack of vocational opportunities progressively damages health, and potentially leads to disability, exasperation of mental illness and decreased life expectancy [1]. A review and literature search was undertaken to ascertain how vocational rehabilitation, specifically the individual placement and support model (IPS), within forensic settings can assist those transitioning from secure units to community living.

Methods: A literature search carried out between January-March 2018 comprised of literature a) published post-2008, b) in English, c) focused on forensic settings and/or forensic patients, and d) peer-reviewed literature from academic journals. Excluded literature included: unpublished results, such as protocols, supplements, dissertations, and poster presentations; primary research was prioritised over opinion pieces or secondary reviews. Following the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) recommendations for improved employment support for those with mental health illness, legislation concerning greater work opportunities was successively introduced. Therefore, literature published post-2008 allowed for Government whitepapers based upon these recommendations to be incorporated. In addition, it also reflects pertinent developments in the field of occupational therapy, following review, which criticised current forensic research as weak, lacking relevancy and methodological rigour.

Conclusion: IPS research has primarily utilised quantitative data, measuring job tenure and risk-reduction, rather than depth of experience of patients, which could greatly improve occupational therapy practice and service delivery. IPS’ efficacy has been recommended within forensic institutions, yet little research exists for IPS’ impact within community settings.