New report from The Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE) and Centre for Mental Health examining the barriers to working in social care for people with mental health problems

10 October 2011

The Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE) have produced the three resources for managers in conjunction with the
Centre for Mental Health, with the support of the cross-Government Health, Work and Well-being initiative.

The three resources, launched on 10 October, World Mental Health Day,  look at the barriers faced by people with mental health problems working in social care. The At a glance briefing, research briefing and digital report also examine what helps staff to gain and/or retain employment in the social care workforce.

The reports found that there was continuing stigma and discrimination towards people with mental health problems, both in wider society and within the workplace, and that negative assumptions by doctors, medical staff and individuals themselves can play a significant role in preventing people from working. The reports include advice for managers and HR professionals to support people with mental health issues in gaining, and retaining, employment in the social care sector. 

Commenting on the reports Workforce Director, Stephen Goulder said:

“These new resources will be helpful for the social care workforce. No one should assume that, because they’re in the caring professions, that mental health is an issue that is easily dealt with. The resources place a strong emphasis on the role of managers. They need to create a culture where people with mental health issues are supported.”

Read the blog by SCIE’s Pete Fleischmann, looking at the issues he’s has dealt with in the workplace. The blog is here – watch Pete speaking about the role of managers in his vlog.