As part of its efforts to improve employment access for vulnerable groups, the Kokkola Living Lab launched the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) job coaching programme earlier this year. IPS coaching is designed for job seekers who need more personalised support to find and maintain meaningful employment.
Job coaches work closely with both job seekers and employers, identifying suitable job opportunities and providing assistance before and after hiring. Support is intensive and tailored to individual needs, with many meetings held every month. Assistance may include help with job orientation, job mobility, and soft skills development.
In Kokkola’s municipal employment services, Mrs. Jaana-Maarit Hyytiäinen serves as the qualified IPS job coach. She emphasises the core principle of IPS coaching:
“In IPS job coaching, the job coach immediately begins searching for a job that aligns with the client’s interests, goals, and resources. Additionally, successful employment requires that we also provide support to employers and work communities. To engage employers and workplaces in this method, the benefits must be clearly communicated.”
Since its launch, the IPS programme in Kokkola has shown encouraging results, welcoming new trainees every month. Of the current 16 trainees, several have already found employment in sectors such as daycare and retail. According to feedback collected through interviews, job seekers especially appreciate the regular, face-to-face meetings with their coach—an approach they say helps build trust and confidence throughout their employment journey.