Its hard at the bottom..

I'm finding it hard to get a work experience position never mind a job. It's something you'll hear many people all over the country say. But I'm unique to a degree. I have a disability. Not getting a job is one thing, it's hard for everyone, but having a disability puts you at a distinct disadvantage. I'm only repeating myself because it's true.

I've heard that many have had the experience of a potential employer not replying to a request for an interview. In my case, I may not even get in the door both metaphorically and physically. On the occasions that I do get brought in for a interview it feels like I'm just there as the token disadvantaged person. So they can say they're an equal opportunities employer. I mean, how dare I look for a job that involves thinking, because if you're disabled you clearly can't.

I defy anyone, top of the corporate ladder or bottom of the "food chain" to start from scratch and try to get a job. No one will give you a chance. Especially outside of Dublin. I don't know what the capital of Ireland is like, but where I am, there's a very palpable refusal to accept that disabled people have a contribution to make. Over and above working as a bag packer in a supermarket or a glass collector in a pub!

Discrimination is alive in Ireland, and so is profililing. It'll be denied to the n'th degree, but mention the word disabled and you're immediately infected with an incurable disease. If they employ you it'll be the end of civilisation and their business. And I'll add here that's it not just private sector companies. The public sector are just as likely to have "strong" opinions on your being a suitable employee.

But that's why I'm so quiet and seemingly unsocial. That's why disabled people stay silent. Fear. I'm not saying this to be sensationalist, but it can happen to anybody. But you know, you have to have a mind to loose and a brain to get damaged, and those that have, have more than likely got more leftover than most.