New network launched to increase numbers of people with mental health problems in work

The Worknet network ran from 2000-2002

Tuesday 25 July 2000 

"On two occasions I lied when I applied for jobs. On both these occasions I said that my two and a half years absence from employment was due to a term spent in prison. I was accepted for the first and short listed for the second. Whenever I have been truthful about my psychiatric past, I have never been accepted for a job."

"I was employed by a local housing association. When I had my first episode of bad depression they dismissed me as soon as they found out."

A new national network involving Mind, the Employment Support Unit at King`s College London and OUTSET Consultancy Service, funded by the Department of Health, is being launched to increase the numbers of employment opportunities for people with mental health problems.

In a previous survey*, Mind found that 69 per cent of people with mental health problems had been put off for applying for jobs for fear of unfair treatment.

In November 1999, a Mind inquiry into social exclusion called for a coordinated national initiative to promote the employment of people with mental health problems.

WorkNet, based at Mind’s headquarters in London, is a network which will support the development of effective employment, education and training services for people who use mental health services. There will also be a telephone and e-mail information line, which will be provide advice an information.

WorkNet will be offering membership to individuals, government agencies, NHS Trusts, local authorities, the private and voluntary sector, service user groups and Local Mind Associations. Members will then be provided with advice, information and training specific to their needs. Mind is delighted to announce that over 100 groups, organisations and individuals have already signed up to WorkNet.

‘Diagnostic visits’ will also be offered to members to help them start or develop employment services. Other activities will include regional events, individual development support, information on funding opportunities, DSS benefits issues, models of good practice, and the latest international research.

*Not Just Sticks and Stones, (Baker and Read, 1996)

***ENDS***