The right to work

Looking for a job can be very arduous. More often than not, it is a lengthy, frustrating process speckled with disappointments.

The odds are often against people with mental health problems who are looking for a job. They are frequently faced with a host of obstacles.

Speaking to The Sunday Times, Richmond Foundation chief executive officer Doris Gauci pointed out that it is important to distinguish between those who are mentally ill and are unemployed and those who are employed and must safeguard their job.

The Richmond Foundation, aware of the disparate difficulties experienced by those with mental health problems who face unemployment and its various consequences on a regular basis, does its utmost to help them out.

The foundation some time ago signed an agreement with the Employment and Training Corporation (ETC) to provide on-the-job training. The Richmond Foundation also looks for opportunities for employment.

"We contact employers and human resource managers of various companies. When a person with mental health problems is recruited, a trial phase usually takes place and ongoing job support is provided," Ms Gauci said.

A supported employment co-ordinator, employed with the foundation, meets employers to discuss the prospective employee and his abilities. Possible job opportunities are discussed.

When recruited, new employees usually start off as part-timers. Their working hours are increased gradually - they are given time to settle. The Richmond Foundation remains in contact with both the employee and employer and provides a job coach to assist the new recruit. As time progresses, the job coach slowly withdraws.

Ms Gauci stressed that it is essential that organisations are tolerant towards inclusion.

She explained that on being contacted, some employers immediately show disinterest. Ms Gauci feels that more often than not this is the result of prejudice.

But there are employers who do not give the foundation the cold shoulder. Some are very willing to listen and give prospective employees the opportunity to try out working in different departments until they discover their niche.

"Given our increasingly aging population, Malta cannot afford to lose out on its working population," Ms Gauci said with conviction.

"A common misconception, often attributed to people with mental health problems, is that they are unpredictable and lack job skills. Employers may fear they wouldn't know how to handle an uncomfortable situation. They may feel they can do without additional problems. We provide employers with all the support required."

Ms Gauci explained that the frustration caused by being unemployed may at times increase one's motivation and spur the person not to give up until he achieves his goal. At other times, job-seekers may experience frustration and as a result they may start to feel helpless. Their symptoms do not make things any easier.

"Being employed is not necessary only for financial reasons. It gives a sense of purpose and increases self-esteem and allows those concerned to feel they are valid, contributing members of society. It would be a mistake to shun them and to exclude them from the workforce. Mental health problems can affect each and every one of us at any time," Ms Gauci continued.

A year ago or so, the Richmond Foundation, in conjunction with the Ministry for Social Policy, concluded the issue of social security - those with mental health problems who are employed through a rehabilitation project may earn up to the minimum wage. Once their salary exceeds the minimum wage, that percentage is deducted from their social security.

"This is fair. An unfair practice is that of National Insurance. Imagine earning Lm15 (for a few hours a week) and having to pay more than Lm5 in National Insurance. This is very disheartening for both employees and employers," Ms Gauci said.

The Richmond Foundation also offers a Staff and Organisation Support Programme to monitor employees' mental health.

Several organisations make use of the counselling service which ensures confidentiality. The Richmond Foundation also provides problem-focused therapy to assist employees to deal with multifarious problems.

Ms Gauci pointed out that work-related stress is a result of the employee's perception - its a subjective experience. It may result when a person is overworked or underworked. If a person feels he is not sufficiently stimulated or motivated, he may find the situation very stressful.

"Having a vague job description may also be stressful. There are also those employees who put too much pressure on themselves. In this achievement-oriented society, people tend to put unnecessary pressure on themselves.

"It is essential that we look after our mental health. We all need some space to relax. It is essential not to take on more than we can handle and to review our expectations. Some families live beyond their means. This can be very stressful," Ms Gauci concluded.