When life took an unexpected turn in December 2024, Luke, a Sandwell resident found themselves admitted to Hallam Street Hospital. At the time, they were in full-time employment, and as part of their support and recovery journey, they were referred to the IPS Retention Team and met Melanie, their retention worker.

“Mel met me at one of the lowest points in my life,” Luke shared. “I was struggling both mentally and physically, but she was kind, warm and understanding from the very start.”

Throughout their hospital stay and beyond, Melanie offered regular meetings, wellbeing check-ins, and compassionate listening. “She became more than my retention worker - she became my safe person. Mel listened when I cried, laughed with me when I was happy, and gave me the strength to rebuild. She was my backbone in recovery.”

Mel supported Luke through important milestones, from health assessments and employer meetings to difficult family moments. “Without Mel, I genuinely don’t think I would have sprung back to health so quickly. She not only supported me but also connected with my family and helped us all through an incredibly tough time. Melanie, you saved me in more ways than you’ll ever know.”

As recovery progressed, the IPS Employment Team stepped in to help take the next steps toward a new beginning. James, IPS Employment Specialist, began working with Luke to rebuild his confidence and reconnect him with work.

“At the time, Jim was the only person outside my family I saw regularly. Meeting weekly for job searches and a coffee meant the world to me. As I healed, we built a great rapport, and I started to feel ready for a fresh start.”

With support from both Melanie and Jim, a new job opportunity was found and successfully secured. “It was Mel who found the job and Jim who helped me apply — and now I’m happier than ever in my new role. Jim continues to support me with my new employer, and I couldn’t be more grateful.”

Reflecting on his journey, Luke shared heartfelt thanks for the entire IPS and Retention service:

“I never knew services like IPS and Retention even existed but I’m so glad they do. Without them, I don’t think I’d have left my old job with dignity or found my new role. Both Mel and Jim are angels in disguise. They’ve helped me more than they’ll ever know — not just with work, but with life itself.”

The IPS team works alongside individuals in secondary mental health care across the Black Country, offering tailored support to stay in, return to, or gain meaningful employment. This story is a powerful reminder that behind every job placement and every meeting, there are people helping others rebuild confidence, hope, and purpose.

“From the bottom of my heart, IPS and Retention - thank you for getting me back to life and helping me find my smile again.”