Living with mental health difficulties such as anxiety and depression can present unique challenges in the workplace. However, engaging in meaningful employment not only provides financial independence but also fosters a sense of purpose and routine, which can be beneficial for mental wellbeing.
With lots of worrying chatter on forthcoming changes to welfare payments potentially impacting those with milder mental health conditions, exploring flexible work options becomes increasingly important. Temporary jobs in London offer a viable pathway to re-enter the workforce while accommodating individual needs.
Upcoming Changes to Welfare Payments
The government has announced significant reforms will be coming to the benefits system, aiming to reduce welfare expenditure. Key changes include:
· Stricter Personal Independence Payment (PIP) Assessments: From November 2026, eligibility criteria for PIP will become more stringent, potentially reducing payments for many, likely impacting those with milder mental health difficulties. However, those with severe, long-term conditions may no longer face reassessments.
· Abolition of Work Capability Assessment: Set for 2028, this change means individuals applying for health-related financial support will undergo a single assessment based on the PIP system.
· Incapacity Benefits Payment Freeze: Starting April next year, incapacity benefits under Universal Credit will be frozen at £97 per week for existing claimants, with reductions for new claimants in subsequent years.
These reforms may particularly affect individuals with milder mental health conditions, prompting a need to explore employment opportunities that align with their wellbeing.
Benefits of Employment for Mental Health
Engaging in work can have several positive effects on mental health:
· Structure and Routine: Employment introduces a daily structure, which can help manage symptoms of anxiety and depression.
· Social Interaction: The workplace provides opportunities for social engagement, reducing feelings of isolation.
· Sense of Achievement: Completing tasks and contributing to a team can boost self-esteem and provide a sense of accomplishment.
· Financial Independence: Earning an income reduces financial stress, contributing to overall wellbeing.
Why Consider Temporary Jobs in London?
Realistically, coming back into the workforce if you’ve been out of it because of mental health difficulties will be daunting. Temporary jobs in London present unique advantages for individuals managing mental health conditions:
· Flexibility: Temping roles often offer adaptable schedules, allowing you to balance work with personal mental health needs. You can work for a period and then take a break, according to what you need.
· Skill Development: Temporary positions provide opportunities to acquire new skills and experiences, enhancing employability. It’s a great way of getting back into the workplace in a safer, managed way.
· Trial Opportunities: Temping allows you to explore different industries and roles without long-term commitment, helping you discover what suits you best. This helps you uncover the work you find satisfying, and the workplaces that improve your mental health.
Making Temporary Employment Work for You
To maximise the benefits of temping in London, consider the following strategies:
· Assess Your Readiness: Reflect on your current mental health status and determine the type of work environment that would be most supportive.
· Communicate with Agencies: Engage with recruitment agencies that specialise in temporary placements. Be open about your needs so they can match you with suitable roles.
· Seek Supportive Employers: Look for employers known for their supportive workplace cultures and mental health initiatives.
· Utilise Support Services: Access available resources such as counselling or employee assistance programmes to support your transition into the workforce.
· Set Realistic Goals: Start with manageable hours and responsibilities, gradually increasing them as you feel more comfortable.
Navigating employment with mental health difficulties requires thoughtful consideration and planning. Temporary jobs in London offer a flexible and supportive avenue to re-enter the workforce, providing numerous benefits that can help. If you’d like to find out more about temping in London, get in touch on 020 7870 7177.