Embargo: released on 8 February for publication on 13 February 2001

SURVEY SHOWS POVERTY ISOLATES PEOPLE WITH MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS

People with mental health problems are one of the most isolated and impoverished groups in society, according to a new survey published at a London conference today.

Results from the survey, called 'An Uphill Struggle', show that people with mental health problems are doubly disadvantaged, both by their illness and their poverty. They face significant hurdles in trying to return to employment, with many anticipating discrimination and ignorance. Only 15% of respondents were employed, and of this small group 57% regard their income as low.

Edith Morgan, chair of the UK forum 'Focus On Mental Health', which published the survey, said;

• "Surviving on a low income is a struggle at the best of times. But for people with mental health problems it is particularly tough. The stigma and discrimination which users of mental health services face on a daily basis, still regrettably widespread, make them amongst the most socially excluded groups in our society.
  
  
• "This survey supports the findings from a review of research that we have also published today. Having a mental health problem and a low income creates a vicious circle. Breaking it will require the concerted efforts of Government, health and social services, the employment service and the voluntary sector, working together in partnership."
  One in four of the people who took part in the survey stated they had been unable to get help from mental health services through an inability to pay for transport or childcare, for example.
  
  
• "Access to health care should be based on clinical need, but here is evidence that poverty is seen as frustrating one of the fundamental rights of our citizens, one that is so essential to their well-being," said Ms Morgan.
  
  "Without positive national and local action to provide specific and sustained help for people with mental health problems, poverty will continue to isolate and ensnare many of the most vulnerable people in our society."
  
  
  

Other findings from the survey show that that when asked how they would spend an extra £10 a week, 74% responded by saying it would go on food and other basics, items that most people take for granted. Respondents had practical ideas about what they need: an accessible and flexible benefits system that helps their return to work, and more access to education and support.

A 60 page review of recent research into poverty and mental health was also released at the London conference on mental health and poverty in the form of a resource pack for national and local policy makers, and local agencies.

More information from Lesley Warner, Mental Health Foundation, Tel: 020 7535 7422

NOTES FOR EDITORS

1. Focus On Mental Health is a UK forum, formed initially in 1993 to promote activities for World Mental Health Day. Focus now consists of some 25 representatives of leading UK mental health groups, working together on common objectives. It has worked with the Department of Health on a programme to challenge stigma. Another project on employment and mental health funded by the Department of Health led to the publication of an Employment Checklist Pack, to help both potential employers and people with mental health problems seeking work.

2. Focus has been funded by the Department for Education and Employment in 2000/2001 to undertake a programme of work looking at issues around poverty and mental health. The resource pack, survey and today's conference are part of that programme.

3. The conference on mental health and poverty is being held on Tuesday 13 February at the Mental Health Foundation, 20-21 Cornwall Terrace, London NW1 4QL.

4. Copies of the survey. An Uphill Struggle, and the resource pack are available on this web site. Printed copies can be obtained from the Sales and Promotion Office at the Mental Health Foundation, telephone 0207 535 7441/7455.