IPS Model — MRCPsych Paper B MCQ

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EasyRehabilitationIPS ModelMRCPsych Paper B

A 50-year-old man with schizophrenia attending a rehabilitation service wants to return to mainstream paid employment. Which evidence-based vocational rehabilitation model prioritises rapid placement in competitive employment followed by ongoing individualised support ('place and train'), rather than requiring work-readiness training first?

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Correct answer: E — Individual Placement and Support (IPS)

Individual Placement and Support (IPS) is the correct answer. It follows a supported-employment or 'place and train' approach: the person is helped to obtain competitive mainstream employment rapidly, according to their preferences, and then receives ongoing individualised support to retain the job and manage their mental health. NICE recommends considering IPS for people with complex psychosis who want to work towards mainstream employment. Pre-vocational training programmes use the contrasting 'train and place' approach, requiring preparation or work-readiness training before competitive employment. Sheltered workshops and social firms provide protected or specially structured employment rather than rapid placement in ordinary competitive work. Day centres primarily offer social, recreational or occupational activities and are not a specific supported-employment model.

Reference: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Rehabilitation for adults with complex psychosis (NG181), recommendations 1.8.10–1.8.12 and definition of Individual Placement and Support. 2020. https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/NG181/chapter/recommendations