Introducing Concepts of Workforce Diversity

Abstract

Claire was a triple-certificate nurse, and she had diabetes. When her illness prevented her from continuing to work in her profession, she sought a disability pension. During this process, she was told by a government employee that she was fat, lazy and did not want to work. Claire was forced onto a Newstart allowance (unemployment benefit) which required her to undertake volunteer work at a local school for disabled children. She enjoyed this work because she was not judged by others due to her size or her illness, and she was able to utilise some of her nursing skills as a teacher's helper. After a period of time, it became evident that her symptoms, which had been attributed to her diabetes, were changing and she was ultimately diagnosed with a brain tumour. Claire has since passed away, and friends have only regret the way she was treated by others who were quick to judge by appearances, social norms and unhelpful regulations. Claire's situation was particularly poignant, but the disadvantage she experienced is not unique.