What Is Networks Employment Solutions?

Networks has been offering supported employment services in Greater Victoria since 2007. Using an Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model, Networks offers client-driven, individualized support for individuals recovering from mental illness to find and maintain paid employment of their choosing.

Last year, 66% of clients in job search obtained employment.

“Since coming to Networks, my self esteem and self confidence have grown. I would refer anyone looking for work to Networks.” – Networks Employment Solutions Client

Population Served

Networks works with adults (19 and over) experiencing mental illness and/or substance use issues who want to work.

Clients must be connected to the health care system. This means you receive support from a doctor, case-manager, psychiatrist, or other health care professional and that you are willing to work with your health care professional to follow a treatment plan.

Goal

We support individuals to obtain and maintain paid competitive employment in the open job market, because we believe this is possible.

Reduce the effect your mental illness or substance use issue has on finding and keeping the job you want.

Philosophy

Everyone has the right to work. Individuals who choose to work have a right to be supported in finding and keeping work.

Finding employment isn’t just about getting a job but can often be about having a meaningful occupation and structure in one’s life.

 

Obtaining paid, competitive work:

Provides security of income.

Gives individuals a sense of purpose and meaningful activity.

Increases one’s sense of self-worth and accomplishment.

Provides a chance to participate in and contribute to society.

Is an important component of recovery from mental illness.

 

Disclosure is up to the client: services and employment are not dependent on clients disclosing their mental illness to employers. While disclosing your health status to an employer can make it easier for them to accommodate your health needs, many of our clients never disclose that they are recovering from a mental illness.

SERVICES PROVIDED

OUTCOMES AND BENEFITS

How to Get Involved

 

Referrals can be made by any collateral support such as a psychiatrist, case manager,
family/walk-in doctor, community support worker, psychologist, counsellor, healthcare provider, or by self-referral.  
Please reach out to Director of Programs to discuss some options that may be available.

Referral forms can be accessed here: Networks Referral 2023

To learn more please contact:

Manager of Programs
Paula Greene
125 Skinner Street
Victoria, B.C. V9A 6X4
Tel: 250-389-1211 ext. 128
Cell: 250-884-2459
Email: paula.greene@icmha.ca