Here I talk exclusively on a radical new show which is certain to cause a debate - The World’s Maddest Job Interview
Some of us have had serious mental health issues, some not. In last night's programme we were brought together to undertake a demanding five-day-long job appraisal, all the time observed by a panel of employers whose task was to decide who they think is the most employable. It was only when the employers told us the results that we could reveal our mental health histories.
It is so easy to hear the claim that once again controversial broadcaster Channel 4 has exploited those who are vulnerable! Wrong, this programme is one of their most comprehensive and ground breaking programmes, one which positively breaks down the misconceptions of a taboo subject. We all took part in order to challenge the discrimination that sees one in five workers who have a mental health issue claim they are eased out of their jobs.
Surely those with mental health 'issues' are dangerous, freaks, lunatics the descriptions are endless and I'm sure nearly all of us have witnessed such bigotry. Thus coupled with the likes of the Murdoch empires which, historically, focus on the negatives and deem it un-newsworthy to report on those who have diagnosed conditions, leading successful and fulfilled lives, now that really is dangerous!!
As a specialist, through lived experience, I was compelled to take part in this truly unique project for multiple reasons; firstly to challenge beliefs, secondly to offer inspiration & hope, and thirdly but by no means least to educate.
Finally, a major broadcaster has taken the courage to tackle issues surrounding mental health & the world of employment. For too long, discrimination, fear and ignorance has taken priority within employment and now is the time for change. Through the creative talents of Channel 4 & Cineflix productions, they have at long last dispelled the myths and prejudices which exist. It is imperative to the success of many companies that we treat individuals as a whole person, highlighting their skills and qualities, whether they have a mental illness or not.
Is it right that we so readily label any one individual as dangerous or potentially volatile when what we need is understanding and not ignorance. We really are strong and capable individuals who just like anyone have times of distress which, just like those without a diagnosis can be induced by the stresses and strains of everyday life.
The experience of being a contributor in this programme has truly been life changing. On a psychological level for the first time in my life I was able to be entirely myself and not have to act as society has so often seemed to require. The best part of this experience is that all of those involved treated me as a "normal person" highlighting my positive attributes rather than treating me purely on the basis of a mental health diagnosis.
Channel 4 throughout have remained positive and treated all of the contributors with the highest degree of professionalism, respect, humility and understanding. It is with this fortunate opportunity that I can now stand proud in the knowledge that our combined contributions will serve to make a positive difference.
Therefore I would like to challenge Mr Cameron to a debate with myself, other individuals and businesses on how the government can better support organisations to employ, obviously those with the right skills and qualifications, someone regardless of whether they live with a mental health condition or not.
The reason I believe some businesses currently appear to discriminate those with mental health, is due to an uneducated fear of requiring a shift in their existing organisational structure and a potential threat to their financial stability. I feel if the government were able to offer better advocacy channels and certain reliefs on taxations, for any potential penalties that organisations fear, this would then hopefully take those whom are skilled and capable out of social limbo and into successful and fulfilling employment.
The next journey for me is to continue my hard work of educating society to become more enlightened on mental health as a collective. I will also be hosting a large scale event which will be a celebration of mental health, presented through varying art genres, whilst raising funds for a number of mental health charities. I hope to gain the support of businesses & organisations for this unique event.
You can watch World's Maddest Job Interview online now here:
Twitter: @paulscates
Paul campaigns for:
http://www.bipolaruk.org.uk/
http://www.dorsetmentalhealthforum.org.uk/