People with mental health problems state they want to work yet they have the lowest employment rate for any disabled group in the UK. Research shows that unemployment is linked to worsening physical and mental health, while having a job can lead to a reduction in symptoms, fewer hospital admissions and reduced service use. Mental health professionals have an important role in promoting employment opportunities for people with mental health problems. However, evidence suggests that all too often the advice and guidance given by mental health professionals is not in line with the research evidence available. Over the last decade there have been significant developments of an evidence-based approach within vocational rehabilitation for people with mental health problems that have demonstrated that people can gain and retain employment. The extent to which mental health services promote confidence in work is critical if success is to be achieved.