Public Sector Sign-ups to 'see me ' Anti-Stigma Pledge
During Scottish Mental Health Awareness Week
As part of Scottish Mental Health Awareness Week 2009, 5 – 11 October, The Scottish Government and NHS Education for Scotland (NES) became the latest organisations to sign the ‘see me’ pledge and play their part in helping to eliminate stigma and discrimination associated with mental ill-health in Scotland.
The Permanent Secretary, Sir John Elvidge, signed the pledge on behalf of the Scottish Government while chief executive, Malcolm Wright signed on part of NES. ‘see me’, Scotland’s national anti-stigma organisation, believes that forming such partnerships is a crucial way to rid Scotland of mental ill-health stigma, both in the workplace and beyond.
The public sector makes up a huge proportion of Scotland’s workforce so their commitment to tackle stigma and discrimination in the widest sense within the public sector is significant.
Charlie McMillan, chair of the ‘see me’ management group said: “One in four Scots will experience a mental health problem at some stage in their life and the vast majority of those who have experienced the associated stigma say that the discrimination they suffered was worse than living with the condition itself.
“We all have a part to play in ridding our country of stigma and the support of organisations and employers, like the Scottish Government and NES, can really help make this happen. We hope the support which they have pledged during Scottish Mental Health Awareness Week will encourage others to take positive action by joining us in signing the pledge.”
Sir John Elvidge added: “Many organisations across Scotland have already pledged to work with 'see me', Scotland’s anti-stigma organisation to eliminate the discrimination and stigma which can be associated with mental health problems.
“I am proud to sign the Scottish Government up to the anti-stigma pledge. As an employer, we recognise the benefit of having a diverse workforce which reflects modern Scotland. I am determined to ensure the organisation is tolerant and supportive of anyone with mental health problems.
Malcolm Wright, chief executive, NES commented: “There is no health without mental health. Committing to the ‘see me’ pledge is a great way to raise awareness within our organisation and also to promote the anti-stigma message through the education, training and development we design, commission and deliver to the wider NHSScotland workforce and, through them, the public they serve.
“Poor mental health impacts on our ability to live a normal, productive day-to-day life and also has a bearing on our physical health and social inclusion. Without it, we can struggle to find employment, engage with our community or remain in general good health. Scotland needs positive mental health to help it thrive both socially and economically.”
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