News Release, 15 May 2006
The Mental Health Foundation today said that Government legislation should be enforced to ensure that people with mental health problems are protected from discrimination when looking for work. A new survey by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development revealed that one in five employers would not consider hiring an incapacity claimant with a history of mental ill health.
Andrew McCulloch, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation, said:
“Discrimination is a serious issue. We know that many people with mental health problems want to work but are excluded from doing so. There continues to be a lack of understanding about mental health and many myths remain, leaving people ignorant and prejudiced, including employers. It is no good just trying to change attitudes as this has been proven not to work. We need to change their behaviour. We need the Government to enforce current strategies and legislation to make employers behave differently.”
The Mental Health Foundation will publish a new report, ‘Actions Speak Louder’, about mental health and discrimination, on Wednesday 31 May 2006.
The full report can be found in publications
Return to news releases 2006
Notes to editors
For further information and interview requests contact please contact the Press Office on 020 7803 1128 / 1130 or email the press office
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.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
