Emma is a 50 year old woman who was diagnosed with knee and foot pain and depression when she was referred to SALUS Case Managment Services.  Emma was referred by her Employability Adviser at Routes to Work as she was on Jobseekers Allowance and had been unemployed for 18 months. 

She had lost her previous job due to a mental breakdown brought on by various stresses in her life.  Emma lived alone and was a carer for her elderly father.  She was actively seeking work but her physical and mental health was holding her back.

Emma was initially referred to counselling but she found this too overwhelming and was unable to engage.  She was therefore referred to Bowen Therapy which would help with her knee and foot pain but also help her to relax and ease some of her stress.  The Case Manager provided Emma with self help materials using the Cognitive Behavioural Therapy approach.  Emma was also given advice on seeking further Carers support for her father and help with applying for courses which would assist her in returning to work.  Emma applied for an Individual Learning Account through learndirect scotland and was given information on the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) course.

Emma reports that the support she was given has significantly improved her life.  Emma used the Cognitive Behavioural Therapy booklets to work through her issues and felt more able to control her mood.  The Case Manager provided support and direction and kept in contact with Emma on a regular basis.  Emma advises that Bowen Therapy not only helped her pain decrease dramatically but also helped her to feel more calm and peaceful.

Emma engaged well with the service.  Her health has improved and she was also granted extra Carers support for her father.  Emma completed the ECDL and has now secured employment in the Social Care industry.  Emma was amazed at how well all the organisations worked together to support and enable her to return to work.