'It Won't Change the World But it Turned my Life Around': Participants' views on the Personal Advisor Scheme in the New Deal for Disabled People

Abstract

This article is a response to the largely negative commentary on the New Deal for Disabled People, in this journal and other leading social policy journals. It draws on a recent qualitative study of disabled people who have re-entered the labour force with the assistance of the Personal Advisor Scheme. Whilst it is acknowledged that the New Deal has its limitations and shortcomings, it is argued that the positive aspects of the scheme deserve to be highlighted. Also, it is suggested that the importance of enabling individuals who have experienced the scheme to voice their opinions and perceptions cannot be understated. By listening to the views and attitudes of those who have first hand experience of the scheme, policies and practices can be developed and redefined in ways, which incorporate the needs and views of the users.