Meetings With Remarkable Advisers

As previously mentioned, I was due a Post Work Programme appointment at the jobcentre. However I rang the Work Psychologist to talk this through because I am (and I daresay always will be) apprehensive about dealing with the Jobcentre. Isn’t it sad that its forever a hostile environment and that dealings with its agents have to be guarded?

I didn’t think she was much help. Typically she is, on the face of it, supportive, but ultimately somewhat ineffectual. However she did suggest I ring and speak to the person concerned (dubbed My Adviser) as, according to her, he is a decent bloke.

So I did. Turns out (or so it seems, time will be the ultimate arbiter) he was actually pretty decent. He offered to conduct the interview on the phone, which was a big help. When I told him what I though of the Work Programme (which I am officially no longer enslaved to as of last month) he wasn’t surprised at all. He was genuinely interested in what I had to say and my interest in writing – which is more than can be said of the Salvation Army.

So that’s good news. I explained about my upcoming Psychologist appointment and he booked another phone call for early May. It just goes to show: if you treat people with kindness, understanding (it helps if you realise there’s a better way of doing things beyond capitalism) you get more results. It’s so sad that DWP creates an environment so otherwise counter productive.

In other news, a letter cam through from the local Libdem campaign office. This is what it said (emphasis theirs):

Dear Ghost Whistler,

I am sure you know there are lots of great things the Liberal Democrats have achieved since being in government.

In our Constituency for example, we have created 3,030 new apprenticeships. We have introduced the pupil premium and made sure that 6,892 infants receive free school meals, helping all children get the best start in life.

The Liberal Democrats we working for a Stronger Economy in a Fairer Society.

But we face a massive barrier. When asked about our achievements in government, the majority believe we have only delivered a few of our policies. This is why I am writing to you.

With the European elections just around the corner and a General and Local elections next year, we need your help to tell the people what we have achieved.

There are roles in our campaign to suit everyone, whether you’re able to deliver publications, donate or canvass people. You could write letters, fold leaflets or stand as a candidate.

Are they having a laugh? I certainly was when I read this nonsense, of which I will speak later as I’m trying to find out a bit more regarding the figures mentioned.