Mental health support helps Callum press start on gaming career

Callum, 23, from Tameside, is now thriving in his dream role at a local gaming store, thanks to dedicated mental health support that helped him turn his passion into a career.

Callum, from Tameside, receives support from our Tameside and Glossop early intervention team, following a challenging period of mental ill health, which included a hospital admission for manic bipolar disorder.

The team partners with Pure Innovations to offer dedicated individual placement and support (IPS) services, helping people with severe mental illness find paid employment or stay in their current roles.

Since April 2024, nearly 450 people have accessed the individual placement and support service with 200 people helped into work across Tameside, Bury, Stockport, Rochdale and Oldham.

Returning to work was particularly daunting for Callum. He explained: “I didn’t feel confident enough to get a job and then hold it down. It was a lot of pressure with meeting people, making relationships and having responsibilities. I couldn’t see a clear way forward.”

Ria Niell, team manager at Pennine Care NHS added: “We know how transformative getting back to work can be for people with mental ill health. We discuss and create an individualised plan, while our partners offer hands-on support, ensuring the person’s mental health is understood and needs are still being met.”

Jill Tichborne, IPS employment specialist at Pure Innovations, helped Callum with CV writing, coaching, and exploring opportunities.

Initially considering retail, Callum worked with Jill to explore his passions — music, skateboarding, and gaming. Gaming stood out, and Callum independently approached a local gaming shop to express his interest. Jill and Callum met with the employer several times to discuss adjustments and build a strong working relationship.

“Our role is to bridge the gap between healthcare and employment,” Jill said. “Working with Callum has been a joy - seeing him thrive in a role he loves is fantastic. His confidence has grown significantly, and he’s gone from strength to strength.”

Reflecting on his experience, Callum said: “It was brilliant to have someone guide me through each step. They helped me reach my potential and get out of my comfort zone.

“Jill even came to the city centre with me to hand out my CV to businesses – something I could not have done on my own. Her support has meant that it has been possible for me to overcome my fears.”

When asked what advice he would give to others in a similar situation, Callum said: "Getting that routine is great for you. Interacting with others and building social skills makes you feel better. I’d really recommend trying it. Remember you’re not alone – help is available and it can change your life."