Affiliations: Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Wacol,
Brisbane, Australia | The University of Queensland, School of Population
Health, Brisbane, Australia
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Geoff Waghorn, The Queensland Centre
for Mental Health Research, Locked Bag 500, Sumner Park BC, QLD 4074,
Australia. Tel.: +61 07 3271 8673; Fax: +61 07 3271 8698; E-mail:
[email protected]
Abstract: Objective: Clients receiving public mental health services and
clinicians require information to facilitate client access to suitable
employment services. However, little is known about the specific
employment-related information needs of these groups. This study aimed to
identify employment-related information needs among clients, clinicians and
employment specialists, with a view to developing a new vocational information
resource. Participants: Employment-related information needs were
identified via a series of focus group consultations with clients, clinicians,
and employment specialists (n=23). Methods: Focus group discussions
were guided by a common semi-structured interview schedule. Results: Several categories of information need were identified: countering incorrect
beliefs about work; benefits of work; disclosure and managing personal
information; impact of earnings on welfare entitlements; employment service
pathways; job preparation, planning and selection; and managing illness once
working. Clear preferences were expressed about effective means of
communicating the key messages in written material. Conclusions: This investigation confirmed the need for information tailored to clients and
clinicians in order to activate clients' employment journey and to help them
make informed decisions about vocational assistance.
Keywords: Mental illness, supported employment, focus groups
