Hard to watch this, how much harder to live it….
‘I have been left in a really humiliating and degrading state. And I hate living like this. I hate living like this.’
No-one should have to live like this.
‘I have a first class honours degree in architecture. My brain doesn’t work like it used to, but I’d still like to be able to do some things. Obviously I’m not going to be well enough to work full time, but I’d like to be volunteering, I’d like to be helping people, to feel like I was part of society, and I just feel like I am not even being given that opportunity to try and contribute in some way.’
Bless the cabbies who bought her an electric wheelchair, after she sold the little of value she owned without raising anywhere close to enough.
We are deeply troubled at this service on a daily basis, by the accounts people bring us of life under the current government, and their experiences – for example – of having a disability; of inappropriate (or no) housing; benefit cuts, sanctions and work fitness assessments; and within the under-resourced NHS. We see a desperate need for a more compassionate, juster society, where we work together for the benefit of everyone, not just the wealthy, and where we protect and resource the most vulnerable.
Do you really want to live in a culture that says that, between us all, we do not have enough money or will to allow Alex to live with some dignity, well-being and social inclusion? And hers is by no means an isolated case.
Please think carefully before using your vote on Thursday.
Palace Gate Counselling Service, Exeter
Counselling in Exeter since 1994
Palace Gate Counselling Service Blog 