Simon Read: 'Seven Families campaign offers an escape from financial and emotional distress'

Under the scheme, seven people have been handed money similar to the amount they would have received if they'd had income protection insurance

Diagnosed with bipolar disorder, Paul Norbert now receives the support to 'get away from the memories'

I had a long chat with reader Paul Norbert this week. The 44-year-old, from Notting Hill, west London, was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in his mid-20s and, ever since, he has had difficulty working. "I became vulnerable and am always feeling suicidal, not knowing how to untangle from the messes of life. I feel the stigma, and being called 'mad' by all sorts of people," he told me. "It can affect every aspect of your life and your relationships and I wasn't in an environment where I could escape the pressures."

Paul's struggles coping with the illness mounted and led to a drink and drugs problem that in turn left him divorced and jobless. "I'm plagued with bad memories which make it hard to keep living," he says. "I'm in recovery from alcohol and drugs, and I still find it difficult from day to day."

But there has been good news for Paul. As part of a national campaign to raise awareness of the financial and emotional damage that long-term illness or disability can do, he will receive support and advice to help improve his home life, aid rehabilitation and hopefully help him return to work. Under the Seven Families scheme, Paul has become one of seven people being handed money similar to the amount they would have received if they'd had income protection insurance. "With a bit of money, I can get away from the memories. I'm keen to get back to work and hope to retrain as a driving instructor," he said. "But it will be nice to use some of the money to take a break and clear my head."

As well as a tax-free income for a year, Paul will receive help with basic finance and budgeting. Crucially, he will also get emotional and other practical support for a year. "Help with day-to-day life and the counselling and emotional support may prove just as important as the money."

But the campaign also highlights the importance of protection insurance and how the right cover can make a huge difference to families hit by an accident or a medical issue. People should ask themselves what would happen to financial dependants if the worst were to happen, whatever it may be, say experts. And with policies starting from as little as a tenner a week, they can be more affordable than people think. To find out more about the campaign, go to 7families.co.uk.

s.read@independent.co.uk

twitter: @simonnread