Development and preliminary evaluation of an employment resource for mental health service consumers, families and carers, and clinicians

Abstract

Mental health service consumers, families, carers and clinicians require a locally relevant comprehensive information resource to provide the knowledge necessary for timely access to suitable public funded employment services. The aim of this paper is to report the development and preliminary evaluation of a new vocational rehabilitation information resource for mental health service consumers, families, carers and clinicians. The package comprises an information booklet targeted primarily to consumers, and a train-the-trainer package for clinicians in mental health service settings. We identified the employment-related information needs of target user groups via a series of focus group consultations with consumers, clinicians and vocational specialists. We also reviewed existing resource materials and searched the relevant research literature. The information content and presentation style of a draft information booklet was then market tested via a second series of focus groups. Initial focus groups and reviews provided guidance on the framework, content, communication techniques, and format of the new booklet. Preliminary market testing indicated that the booklet demonstrates adequate levels of content relevance, quality, user acceptability, and potential utility in clinical services and evidence-based supported employment services. Further evaluation of the resource package is indicated. Feedback about the utility of the booklet when applied with mental health service consumers and clinicians, as well with family members and carers, is needed. The utility of the booklet in applied clinical settings where an employment specialist is not available, and in supported employment settings where health professionals are not available, also requires evaluation. Translation of the booklet into other media is also indicated.

Keywords:

• supported employment
• recovery
• mental health services
• evidence-based
• evaluation