Case study: Pansy
Pansy was enjoying a well-earned early retirement after nearly 20 years working in the NHS.
Originally from Sheffield, before that she worked in banking in the City of London. But last year she suffered a breakdown caused by a mix of stress and family issues.
She was admitted to an acute mental health ward for a short while and was then supported in the community by the Crisis Resolution and Home Treatment team and later by the Adult Locality Mental Health team. It was during this time she was referred to the Individual Placement Support Service.
Pansy said: “Before I was unwell, I was starting to get a little bored with retirement anyway. I’m a people person and I missed the daily interaction with others, but when you struggle with your mental health you lose confidence.
“The Individual Placement Support Service was really helpful, and nothing was too much trouble for Emma, my employment specialist. I retired early because of chronic back problems, but I felt I could manage a couple of days a week.”
Pansy’s mental health is now in a much better place, and she is weaning off her medication. So much so, that she has joined the Bank at Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust and is finalising the paperwork and checks so she can start working shifts.
She added: “The service has supported me with IT, which is not my strong point, and sat in my online interviews. Emma is always available and I’m looking forward to returning to work. At 64 years old I have a wealth of experience that I’m keen to pass on to the next generation.”
As a patient, relative or carer using our services, sometimes you may need to turn to someone for help, advice, and support.