Job creation through income generation: an evaluation of Re-Cover, a decorating project developed with forensic mental health service users
The Journal of Mental Health Training, Education and Practice
ISSN: 1755-6228
Article publication date: 13 April 2018
Issue publication date: 16 May 2018
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore and describe the effectiveness, achievements and challenges of a job creation project that was developed with people in contact with forensic mental health services.
Design/methodology/approach
This evaluation (case study) used a mixed methods approach: a range of quantitative and qualitative data were gathered, analysed and interpreted.
Findings
There were economic and health benefits. The income generation was sufficient to fund a large chunk of the projects operating costs. Service users reported improvements in mental health, wellbeing, confidence, skill development and earning capacity.
Research limitations/implications
The sample size was too small to be generalised and no validated measures were used. Further research is required into the long-term benefits of job creation in mental health services and providing a continuum of employment support.
Practical implications
A range of commercial activity can form the basis for job creation and work training projects in mental health services. Substantial operating costs can be generated, to re-invest in job creation/enterprises.
Social implications
Social value can be enhanced within NHS public sector procurement procedures. Agreement between a range of internal NHS departments is necessary: finance, commercial, estates and facilities, and procurement.
Originality/value
Public sector procurement has the potential to act as a catalyst to support the inclusion agenda by funding commercial activity that job creation projects can undertake.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank the members of the Re-Cover decorating project for all the hard work and sharing what it was like. The authors also like to thank Jane Loewenthal, Project Manager.
Citation
McDonald, S. and Bertram, M. (2018), "Job creation through income generation: an evaluation of Re-Cover, a decorating project developed with forensic mental health service users", The Journal of Mental Health Training, Education and Practice, Vol. 13 No. 3, pp. 148-156. https://doi.org/10.1108/JMHTEP-11-2017-0062
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2018, Emerald Publishing Limited