Is 'Ready for work' up to the job?

For immediate release: Thursday 13 December 2007

Leading mental health charity Mind today comments on the Government report Ready for work: full employment in our generation that outlines its plans to reform the welfare system over the next four years.

Mind's Chief Executive Paul Farmer said:

"The vast majority of people with mental health problems are keen to get back to work as soon as possible but they often need some help to be able do this. We welcome the reforms announced by the Government today as a step in the right direction. It should mean a more personal approach is taken to support people with mental distress so that they receive relevant training and support that helps them become work ready."

"However, it is vital that people do not feel forced to go back to work before they are ready or that they are coerced into inappropriate positions which may put their mental health at risk."

"Stigma about mental health problems is one of the greatest barriers that people face in returning to work and sadly we have found that many employers are still not very understanding. Employers must commit themselves to making reasonable adjustments such as gradual return to work plans, flexible working hours or enabling staff to work from home. Employers could also provide access to counselling or stress management training, to help staff to maintain their wellbeing."

Notes to editors

Mind is the leading mental health charity in England and Wales. We work to create a better life for everyone with experience of mental distress. www.mind.org.uk

For more information, interviews and a range of case studies please contact Mind press office on T: 020 8522 1743 M: 07850 788514 E: press@mind.org.uk ISDN line available: 020 8221 0817.

Please note that Mind is not an acronym and should be set in title case.