Letters and Comments

Dear Friends at the Whitlam Institute,

Some great ideas. In view of the government's recent budget proposals for people with a disability to go on to NewStart if they can work 15 hours a week, I would like to see some research done into the problems of the disabled in finding work. My particular interest is in the group suffering from mental illness, where a person may be able to work 15 hours, but certainly could not stand the stringent conditions of the NewStart system. In addition, since these people are among the long-term unemployed, the payments on Newstart would be inadequate for them to live a decent lifestyle.

It is very hard for someone with a mental illness to find employment, even if they have done training courses (for instance, in Financial Services or Computer skills, because of lack of experience - all positions advertised in this field stipulate some years of experience in similar jobs. The person ends up applying for many jobs, getting negative feedback, loss of self esteem, discouragement, perhaps depression, perhaps a relapse with hospitalization (more expense for the government!).

It would be great if someone there would be interested in doijng some research on this. The Schizophrenia Fellowship could help provide information.

I, and my husband, have recently written letters to Mr. Crean and Natasha Stott Despoja. If someone there is interested in going into this matter, we would be glad to help you with information etc.

Johanna Blows

Dear Johanna,

The issue of disabilities, especially in Western Sydney, is something that is very close to our hearts at the Whitlam Institute. I will follow up on your letter and see if we can develop some support for research on disabilities and employment.

Yours

PCB