5 June 2008
Andrew McCulloch, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation, today said:
“The Society of Occupational Medicine’s research is further evidence that being in employment is priceless for a person who has experience of a mental illness. Sadly, many employers don’t want to give a job to a person with a history of mental ill health. Workplace discrimination is often the real barrier that stops individuals from being able to go back to work.”
“If people with experience of mental illness are to be given the opportunity to get a job then employers must be given clear guidance and information that will make it easy for them to support a person with a mental health problem in the workplace. Employers cannot be expected to do it alone – many feel uncomfortable when it comes to talking about mental illness.”
“People with mental health problems benefit hugely from getting back into employment but there is also a strong economic argument as to why the government should invest to support individuals back to work. A recent report* revealed that the cost to the economy due to earnings lost as a result of mental ill health will be £41 billion by 2026. Spend would result in savings in the long-term.”
Read the full research on the The Society of Occupational Medicine's website
*Paying the Price: The cost of mental health care in England. The King’s Fund (May 2008) - www.kingsfund.org.uk
Notes to editors
For further information, please contact the press office team on 020 7803 1126/1128.
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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