I am 40 years old
Up to 2 years ago I worked part time to guarantee an income and the rest of the time I successfully establlished myself as an artist. While at the company 5 years ago our wages were frozen our contracts ’renewed’ and told “it’s all for the good of the company” whilst the executives wages and bonuses quadrupled.
2 years ago I suffered a severe breakdown my job contract was ended, and my painting career was put on hold.
I am currently pilled up to my eye balls. I have had my counselling period which lasted a set period of time which has had to end . For me that’s the end of the healing process until I can pay out £40 a session for a private counsellor/therapist.
Because I worked only part-time I received no company sickness benefit and am not eligible for any unemployment benefits. Because I’m also classed as being self-employed I receive no benefits without declaring myself bankrupt ..this I will not do. I am unemployed, yet technically I am not seen as such so I am essentially invisible in the eyes of the government.
At times my anxiety is severe and crippling. This makes me unemployable until I can guarantee I won’t have any sustained attacks. Because I’m not earning, and making money for someone else it is implied I am worthless, I have no value I am pointless.
Thank heavens I have a partner who is able to cover our way.
I’d hate to think what position I’d be in if I was on my own and alone.
I am the 99%
occupybritain.co.uk