Individual placement and support and participatory workplace intervention for people with work disabilities: Experiences of job coaches

Background: This study investigates the experiences and satisfaction of job coaches with Individual Placement and Support (IPS) and Participatory Workplace Intervention (PWI) for enhancing work participation of people with work disabilities.

Methods: Barriers and facilitators for execution and the satisfaction of job coaches were explored in focus groups, supported by additional insights from field notes. Focus group data was transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis.

Results: Job coaches were satisfied with IPS, and a main facilitator was their belief in its effectiveness, especially regarding the ‘first place, then train’ principle. The biggest barrier to carrying out IPS according to protocol was the integration with healthcare. Job coaches were satisfied with how PWI ensured a client’s input in the conversation with employers, however, PWI was often not carried out due to barriers concerning e.g., time investment.

Conclusions: Multiple barriers for the execution of IPS and PWI were identified. However, job coaches expressed satisfaction with (elements of) these interventions. Further research is warranted to address these barriers and improve implementation.