2023-09-12 04:37:00
Exactly. I worked in accounting, I have a bookkeeper diploma. But when I respond to an ad for a vacant position, employers are more demanding and prefer to hire someone who has a bachelor’s degree in accounting. Which I don’t have.
However, in 14 years, you have had time to train or specialize…
I started evening classes two years ago in social promotion but I stopped because I was no longer able to study the required theory by heart. Moreover, when you are registered for training, you no longer have to actively look for employment.
You don’t have a driving license, do you think that must have played a role in your possible hiring?
Yes, I have already been refused access to a position because I depended on public transport. The job interviews were going well until I said I didn’t have a license.
Same thing, for 14 years, you’ve had time to get your license… Why didn’t you do it?
I don’t have the financial means, not only to take it but above all to afford a car afterwards. It’s a vicious circle.
In 14 years, how many times have you been checked by Forem?
Thrice. And the Forem attendants never had any reproaches to make of me. I always sent my CVs and passed my interviews. Today, my situation is due to society. The job market has completely evolved.
How much do you get per month?
This varies from month to month. This can range from 1,354 to 1,420 euros net per month.
In Wallonia, there are around 223,000 unemployed people and their image is not always positive. Have you ever been criticized for being unemployed?
I’ve already been called welfare recipient but never to my face, it’s always done on social media.
Many professions are in shortage, notably the hospitality sector where employers are struggling to recruit. Why not retrain?
No, I wouldn’t be able to work in the catering industry. I have a problem with my hands, I’m shaking. And beyond that, as I depend on public transport, the timetables are too complicated. I won’t be able to go home again.
For you, the unemployed are not slackers?
No. There are some who do not want to work but it is a minority out of the total number of unemployed people. Besides that, there are all those who want to work and who cannot find it. And that’s not their fault. As I told you, the job market has evolved.
How are your days organized?
I get up around 5:30 in the morning. I go walking, I look for work, I go to different sites specializing in recruitment. And I train on accounting software. I practice exercises to stay in the game. Don’t think I don’t do anything with my days.
If you were offered a job, where you earn the same as unemployed, would you go?
Yes, I miss sociability.
Last question, do you feel like you are a burden on society?
Yes, society stigmatizes you. We are a burden on society. Especially, when we say that we bring nothing back to the State, apart from costs.
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