27 October 2008
In response to the introduction of the Employment Support Allowance (ESA), Simon Lawton-Smith, Head of Policy at the Mental Health Foundation, said:
“The introduction of a more personalised system for helping people get back to work is a great opportunity to change the currently unacceptable situation whereby people with mental health problems are effectively locked out of the workplace.”
However, it’s essential we remember that the overwhelming majority of people with mental health problems want to work. In this context, using the language of sanctions seems completely unnecessary. When you consider that 40% of incapacity benefits claimants have mental health problems, the obvious risk is that you cause immense distress to hundreds of thousands of people without getting anyone closer to a job.”
To avoid this happening we need to ensure that all staff working with benefits claimants are properly trained in mental health issues, and aware of the risks of pushing people into unsuitable work. Far more also needs to be done to support and encourage employers to take on people with mental health problems – a high proportion aren’t prepared to even consider employing a person with a history of mental health problems.
Finally, we need a benefits system that is able to work closely with other agencies involved in the claimant’s life, such as housing support or social care. Taking a holistic approach is far more likely to result in someone getting – and keeping – suitable employment.”
ENDS
Notes to editors:
The ESA was introduced on the 27th October 2008 to replace Incapacity Benefit for new claimants. ESA will involve new medical assessments of the ability to work and most claimants will be expected to take steps to prepare for a return to work. Those who fail a medical assessment or do not comply with certain conditions can have their level of ESA reduced. For more information see the Department for Work and Pensions website
A national study has found that fewer than 40% of British employers would consider giving a job to a person with a history of mental illness. [Ref - Mental Health and Social Exclusion, Office of the Deputy prime Minister, 2004]
In a survey, over 85% of people with a mental health problem actively wanted to find a job.
[Ref - Stanley K, Maxwell, D Fit for Purpose? London 2004]
For further information, please contact Simon Loveland on 020 7803 1130 or email sloveland@mhf.org.uk
For more on the discrimination faced by those with mental health problems please see the Mental Health Foundation’s report, Actions Speak Louder, available from www.mentalhealth.org.uk/publications
The Mental Health Foundation uses research and practical projects to help people survive, recover from and prevent mental health problems. We work to influence policy, including government at the highest levels. And we use our knowledge to raise awareness and to help tackle the stigma attached to mental illness. We reach millions of people every year through our media work, information booklets and online services.
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