Affiliations: Occupational Therapy Division, School of Health
Professions, University of Brighton, Eastbourne, UK | School of Applied Social Science, University of
Brighton, Eastbourne, UK | Community University Partnership Programme/Centre for
Nursing and Midwifery Research, University of Brighton, Eastbourne, UK | Richmond Fellowship RETAIN, Leytonstone, UK
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Josh Cameron, Senior Lecturer,
School of Health Professions, University of Brighton, Robert Dodd Building, 49
Darley Road, Eastbourne, BN20 7UR, UK. Tel.: +44 1273 643774; Fax: +44 1273
643652; E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract: Objectives: To understand experiences and perspectives of job
retention project users in relation to challenges faced and support received;
to develop explanatory insight into effective interventions. Participants: Fourteen employed users of a United Kingdom job
retention project, with a range of mental health problems. Methods: Semi-structured individual interviews which were
collaboratively designed with service users. Data analysis involved deductive
and inductive thematic analysis, constant comparative analysis, and service
user collaboration. Results: Participants' feelings of guilt and self blame were a major
obstacle to job retention. The project helped them address these by supporting
a reappraisal of their situation. This assisted identification of job
accommodations and adjustments and confidence in self advocacy. Thus an
important basis for improved dialogue with their employer was established. A
peer support group provided an important adjunct to individual project worker
interventions. 10 participants retained employment; three of those who did not
were helped to retain work aspirations. Conclusions: The project effectively used a multi-faceted approach
involving a person-environment-occupation focus on the worker, their work, and
workplace. Such complex interventions may offer more promise than those
interventions (such as cognitive behavioural therapy) which have a primary
focus on the individual worker.
