16 jobs in nyc
Staten Island - the forgotten borough
2010.01.31 20:35 evildeadxsp Staten Island - the forgotten borough
The Forgotten Subreddit of the Forgotten Borough.
2010.04.28 09:41 alaskamiller People hiring
Post jobs you're hiring for. Add a tag of [HIRING] or [FOR HIRE], add in location, add in salary, and write out the description with a contact info. Links to job aggregator websites will be banned.
2010.08.14 19:47 Kllian Manchester City: Pride In Battle
For fans of Manchester City Football Club. Come hang out and discuss all things City.
2024.05.19 11:03 Objective-Teach-9371 Was I put under PIP unfairly?
Hey there, I am a dog handler who took some time off to consider my poor mental health. At 4:50PM I was given notice that I was invited for a Performance Improvement Plan next week and will be reviewed Monday and Tuesday with the possibility of the problems raised changing before Wednesday (when the meeting is set).
The problems laid out in the proposal are extremely vague and to do with general dog control and a hoarding mentality (focusing too much on the dogs under my direct care instead of the ones under the care of other coworkers). I wasn't aware these were areas that I was failing in. Nowhere is there any mention of specific instances.
The business owner is the one carrying out this process, they are not on site day-to-day (maybe once every couple of months). I didn't know my day-to-day manager had these issues with my performance. Though I know the dogs aren't always obedient and in the employee documentation is explained that dogs should listen to a multitude of commands and never disobey, I feel as if this is unrealistic. I look after 10-16 different dogs each day (I pick and drop them off), as well as the 20-30 other dogs (and 2 people doing the same job I am). Some dogs come consistently 2-3 times a week, others are once a week or every other week. I am trained as a dog trainer and my role is a "handler".
I realize that I am more nervous around the owner, there has been a lot of problem with dogs being too noisy (a specific person/s relating to a nearby retirement home complained to the point of the council coming in and monitoring us, we passed an official inspection but it's become a hot-button issue). The owner expects the dogs to not bark at all which the manager and my coworkers don't even attempt when the owner is not around as it's not feasible (the manager cannot stand up for us though).
Another problem that is laid out is the lack of me being an "Alpha". I'm not sure how well versed you are with contemporary dog training so I apologize, but being an Alpha is widely considered an outdated way of treating dogs based on incorrect beliefs about packs of wolves(as well as incorrect understanding of what "dominance" means when it comes to dogs). As wikipedia mentions all professional dogs are considered to use positive reinforcement, it's what the best practices of the MPI for dog handling recommends, the SPCA and the Association for Dog Professional Trainers of New Zealand (PIP mentions that dog treats cannot be used, which is the most popular accepted form of behavioral management).
My owner has no certifications that I know of, and occasionally hires a "dog sage" (has no certifications, possibly worked as a vet nurse, or at least around them at one point) and they both consider being an Alpha as okay (and enjoy "dominating" dogs). They They have both encouraged me to physically hurt the animals to get them to "submit" this includes pinching ears, squeezing paws to the point of it being "uncomfortable" for the dogs, as well as kneeing dogs when they jump up.
I assume this is a point of contention as their public documents emphasizes that they are not trainers (nor anybody that works here) and that no physical discipline techniques will be used with handling. However are internal employee documents list the methods I mentioned before, and I have been encouraged to do this to train the dogs. (There is a mention in the employee documents that mention a handler can use the methods they think is best, which, along with my manager agreeing with my methods is probably why I've managed to work here for a couple of years). I've mentioned my discomfort at these techniques but it is seen as cowardice or over-empathy instead of what I was learned to do during my course certification and have read about since.
I've been nervous around my boss ever since the first meeting when they visited me and repeatability shouted at me to raise my voice at a dog (even though the internal documents say that a raised voice should not be used). They sent an email to everybody later on saying sorry for being harsh as they were experiencing family problems.
All the public facing documents talk about encouraging dogs to be social and have fun and grow with them but I'm constantly pressured to keep them quiet, most toys were removed to lower their excitability and I just feel like I'm a prison guard. I mentioned poor mental health and I am looking into getting a GP and treated for a worsened anxious/depressive state (wanted to with my time off but this whole thing was a big surprise, I realize PIP is meant to be helpful but a lot of online say I'm about to be fired which is pretty scary).
I have a good relationship with my day-to-day manager but I'm not sure they'll stand up for me.
My questions are:
submitted by Objective-Teach-9371 to LegalAdviceNZ [link] [comments]
The problems laid out in the proposal are extremely vague and to do with general dog control and a hoarding mentality (focusing too much on the dogs under my direct care instead of the ones under the care of other coworkers). I wasn't aware these were areas that I was failing in. Nowhere is there any mention of specific instances.
The business owner is the one carrying out this process, they are not on site day-to-day (maybe once every couple of months). I didn't know my day-to-day manager had these issues with my performance. Though I know the dogs aren't always obedient and in the employee documentation is explained that dogs should listen to a multitude of commands and never disobey, I feel as if this is unrealistic. I look after 10-16 different dogs each day (I pick and drop them off), as well as the 20-30 other dogs (and 2 people doing the same job I am). Some dogs come consistently 2-3 times a week, others are once a week or every other week. I am trained as a dog trainer and my role is a "handler".
I realize that I am more nervous around the owner, there has been a lot of problem with dogs being too noisy (a specific person/s relating to a nearby retirement home complained to the point of the council coming in and monitoring us, we passed an official inspection but it's become a hot-button issue). The owner expects the dogs to not bark at all which the manager and my coworkers don't even attempt when the owner is not around as it's not feasible (the manager cannot stand up for us though).
Another problem that is laid out is the lack of me being an "Alpha". I'm not sure how well versed you are with contemporary dog training so I apologize, but being an Alpha is widely considered an outdated way of treating dogs based on incorrect beliefs about packs of wolves(as well as incorrect understanding of what "dominance" means when it comes to dogs). As wikipedia mentions all professional dogs are considered to use positive reinforcement, it's what the best practices of the MPI for dog handling recommends, the SPCA and the Association for Dog Professional Trainers of New Zealand (PIP mentions that dog treats cannot be used, which is the most popular accepted form of behavioral management).
My owner has no certifications that I know of, and occasionally hires a "dog sage" (has no certifications, possibly worked as a vet nurse, or at least around them at one point) and they both consider being an Alpha as okay (and enjoy "dominating" dogs). They They have both encouraged me to physically hurt the animals to get them to "submit" this includes pinching ears, squeezing paws to the point of it being "uncomfortable" for the dogs, as well as kneeing dogs when they jump up.
I assume this is a point of contention as their public documents emphasizes that they are not trainers (nor anybody that works here) and that no physical discipline techniques will be used with handling. However are internal employee documents list the methods I mentioned before, and I have been encouraged to do this to train the dogs. (There is a mention in the employee documents that mention a handler can use the methods they think is best, which, along with my manager agreeing with my methods is probably why I've managed to work here for a couple of years). I've mentioned my discomfort at these techniques but it is seen as cowardice or over-empathy instead of what I was learned to do during my course certification and have read about since.
I've been nervous around my boss ever since the first meeting when they visited me and repeatability shouted at me to raise my voice at a dog (even though the internal documents say that a raised voice should not be used). They sent an email to everybody later on saying sorry for being harsh as they were experiencing family problems.
All the public facing documents talk about encouraging dogs to be social and have fun and grow with them but I'm constantly pressured to keep them quiet, most toys were removed to lower their excitability and I just feel like I'm a prison guard. I mentioned poor mental health and I am looking into getting a GP and treated for a worsened anxious/depressive state (wanted to with my time off but this whole thing was a big surprise, I realize PIP is meant to be helpful but a lot of online say I'm about to be fired which is pretty scary).
I have a good relationship with my day-to-day manager but I'm not sure they'll stand up for me.
My questions are:
- Can I ask for the PIP parts to be more specific? I mean how is "knowing dog behavior" and "being an alpha" supposed to be defended? There were no specific instances where I have failed anything mentioned in the any of these documents. I realise a PIP should be more exact but how realistic is that, aren't a lot of job responsibilities vague?
- If the problems laid out are just from my owners sparse observations, is that okay?
- Part of the training suggested is with the owner to improve my ability to control dogs, I don't think I'll feel comfortable around them enough to improve. and I know I definitely won't agree with some of their techniques, can I ask for them to pay for an accredited trainer? (as well as only they're only suggesting having a day of training with them every 2 weeks, then being reviewed after a 6 weeks).
- Should I bring up my concerns about the problems they've laid out before the meeting?
- Can the concerns be valid against me if they involve problems that other employees are going through? (like keeping them quiet).
- If this situation doesn't go well I'm quite worried about what I'll do, I understand WINZ standown is 13 weeks for quitting or being dismissed. Can this be reduced for my situation? I don't have any savings to last weeks without a wage. I hope I've misjudged the situation and I will get a "good" PIP, I'm just really worried right now.
2024.05.19 10:48 Individual_Cook5855 AITA for telling my estranged parents to never contact me again after they reached out to apologize?
Throwaway,
I (29m), my parents divorced when I was 7. After the divorce, I initially lived with my mom and spent weekends with my dad. When I was 9, my mom moved in with her boyfriend, and I was sent to live with my dad. At first, it was fine because my mom would regularly meet with me, but over time, those visits became less.
When I was 12, my dad introduced me to his girlfriend, who I could tell didn't like me. I didn't understand why. By then, I was only seeing my mom once every three months or so. My dad told me to get used to his girlfriend, but we never really got along. A year later, my dad told me I would be living with my grandmother (his mom) from now on because his girlfriend was pregnant and wanted a calm house. I was angry and caused a scene. His girlfriend told my dad that I was always like this around her, which was a lie, but my dad believed her and shipped me off to my grandmother.
I told my mom I wanted to live with her, but she said she and her partner traveled the world all the time and that I needed to stay put for school. So, I lived with my grandmother. My parents occasionally checked in on me, meeting me on my birthday or sending essentials until I was 16. After that, the contact became even less frequent—no birthday calls or money for essentials. My grandmother had to go back to work to support me.
I had no idea that my dad had married his girlfriend and had two other kids or that my mom had gotten married and had twins until my grandmother told me. I started to resent both of them, but my sweet grandmother kept me grounded. She provided for me, ensured I graduated, and helped me get into a good college.
When I turned 18, as a gift to her, I changed my last name to her maiden name. She wasn't happy initially but accepted it later. My parents hadn't contacted me or grandmother for over a year and a half at that point. I went to college, graduated, got a good job, got engaged, and have generally had a good life. I haven't spoken to my parents in all this time. My grandmother passed away four years ago, I tried to text and call the only phone number I had of dad but it didn't go through and I was the only family member at her funeral.
Recently, I got an email from my dad and mom asking to meet and reconnect. I don't know how they got my personal email. My dad says he wants to apologize and attend my wedding, and his kids want to meet their big brother. He also mentioned that my mom wants to meet me and apologize as well. He even had the audacity to write that he was disappointed in me changing my last name but "understood it." He didn't even ask about his own mother. I've already moved on without them, hit multiple milestones in my life and career without their support, so I sent a reply stating I don't know him or my mom, added a few other harsh words, and told them never to contact me again.
I told my fiancée, who comes from a big family and is very family-oriented, and she was upset, saying I was too harsh. She believes I should give them a chance since it's been so long. We had huge argument about this. She kept saying how family is important and I should forgive and forget. Now, I have a feeling she might be involved with them and she might be the one who gave them my email. I talked to my close friends and all of them say I am justified on my stance but my fiancée's outburst is making me think about it.
submitted by Individual_Cook5855 to AITAH [link] [comments]
I (29m), my parents divorced when I was 7. After the divorce, I initially lived with my mom and spent weekends with my dad. When I was 9, my mom moved in with her boyfriend, and I was sent to live with my dad. At first, it was fine because my mom would regularly meet with me, but over time, those visits became less.
When I was 12, my dad introduced me to his girlfriend, who I could tell didn't like me. I didn't understand why. By then, I was only seeing my mom once every three months or so. My dad told me to get used to his girlfriend, but we never really got along. A year later, my dad told me I would be living with my grandmother (his mom) from now on because his girlfriend was pregnant and wanted a calm house. I was angry and caused a scene. His girlfriend told my dad that I was always like this around her, which was a lie, but my dad believed her and shipped me off to my grandmother.
I told my mom I wanted to live with her, but she said she and her partner traveled the world all the time and that I needed to stay put for school. So, I lived with my grandmother. My parents occasionally checked in on me, meeting me on my birthday or sending essentials until I was 16. After that, the contact became even less frequent—no birthday calls or money for essentials. My grandmother had to go back to work to support me.
I had no idea that my dad had married his girlfriend and had two other kids or that my mom had gotten married and had twins until my grandmother told me. I started to resent both of them, but my sweet grandmother kept me grounded. She provided for me, ensured I graduated, and helped me get into a good college.
When I turned 18, as a gift to her, I changed my last name to her maiden name. She wasn't happy initially but accepted it later. My parents hadn't contacted me or grandmother for over a year and a half at that point. I went to college, graduated, got a good job, got engaged, and have generally had a good life. I haven't spoken to my parents in all this time. My grandmother passed away four years ago, I tried to text and call the only phone number I had of dad but it didn't go through and I was the only family member at her funeral.
Recently, I got an email from my dad and mom asking to meet and reconnect. I don't know how they got my personal email. My dad says he wants to apologize and attend my wedding, and his kids want to meet their big brother. He also mentioned that my mom wants to meet me and apologize as well. He even had the audacity to write that he was disappointed in me changing my last name but "understood it." He didn't even ask about his own mother. I've already moved on without them, hit multiple milestones in my life and career without their support, so I sent a reply stating I don't know him or my mom, added a few other harsh words, and told them never to contact me again.
I told my fiancée, who comes from a big family and is very family-oriented, and she was upset, saying I was too harsh. She believes I should give them a chance since it's been so long. We had huge argument about this. She kept saying how family is important and I should forgive and forget. Now, I have a feeling she might be involved with them and she might be the one who gave them my email. I talked to my close friends and all of them say I am justified on my stance but my fiancée's outburst is making me think about it.
2024.05.19 10:47 esctasyx Probably gonna delete later,but thoughts on my gta OC Fasir Hodzic? (More info in description tw for Eating disorders drug use and self harm ＼(^-^)／) BTW I couldn't show it but fasir had super crooked teeth as a teen
 | Name: Fasir Hodzic submitted by esctasyx to GTA [link] [comments] Ethncity: Bosnian Sexuality: Bi Gender: Cis Male Fave Radio Station: non stop pop Location: Rockford hills Personality: reckless,overly kind,self destructive Job: former teen grunge rocker turned pop star Bio: born in bosnia Fasirs mom died shortly after he was born and his dad was never in his life leading to him being raised by his aunt. He lived in poverty most of his life but at 16 convinced his aunt to move to Vice city to pursue music. Reluctantly she agreed. At 17 he joined grunge group stargazer as the lead singer and their first album was successful and they moved to Los santos. He always stuck out in the scene for his love of suits. When he was 21 he left the band to become a pop star. He is extremely successful and recently sold out the maze bank arena. He is a known celebrity trainwreck and has struggled with bulmia,coke use,alcholism and self harm. Mission info (strangers and freaks): trevor notices a random passed out man in his yard and is ready to shoot him but the man tells trevor that his phone is dead and he needs to call a cab. Regcnoizing him as the trainwreck popstar that puked an award show he takes pity and drives him home to Rockford hills. Fasir pays him 15K and is available as a hangout partner Random info: He is partially blind I could imagine his music being a mix of 2010s pitbull and nin He is a huge geek Him and Beverly are surprisingly good freinds despite Beverly stalking him for photoshots |
2024.05.19 10:40 STD_ISSUE_ANTHROPOD Schema Therapy; Narrative, mythos and me.
Hi, I have been reading through my notes, correspondence with my psych and reacquainted myself with this subreddit having made a little bit of progress. I realise how deeply personal and different our work with schema therapy can be. It is a fraught process that is really hard work at times. Having made unexpected progress though, I thought maybe it would be helpful to describe parts of my context, not so much that people find it familiar or relatable, but moreso that people grab the toolset that schema therapy gives you and run with it in your own way.
Background: It's probably been just over fourth months of fairly intensive schema therapy. I am in the fortunate situation of having regular appointments with a clinical psychologist. I would say I had two points where I generated schemas. First one was the same as everyone else: Early childhood. Second one was 17-21 when I became effectively bedridden due to chronic illness.
When I have talked about this second period, I describe it as "Having to rebuild who I was from scratch, entirely based around energy efficiency". I remember staring into the pitch blackness of my bedroom during this time, absolutely flawed that the one part of me that seemed to function right was what Schema Therapy might describe as "Demanding Critic". This would have been 18-19 years ago so I had no idea about schema therapy at all, I just had this constant internal dialogue tearing strips off me for not trying harder, not getting up, not fixing myself. I was completely exhausted otherwise, but this damn thing was as active as ever? What the hell, why was it the last thing standing? It was so different from the rest of me. "If you know how to fix everything, be my guest, I'm in your hands, here's the keys!" I remember thinking. Alarmingly, the internal dialog responded: "Fine, I will". "Good fucking luck" I thought, and passed out for several hours. I didn't realise it, but I had just given Demanding Critic a parental role.
Demanding Critic used a process of elimination to tear apart, kludge, re-engineer and jerry-rig me from someone who slept for 16-18 hours a day out of necessity into someone with a degree, a house, a family, a part-time job. It took a while. It wasn't easy. It's amazing what can happen when you give seething self-hatred the keys to your entire self. Punitive critic used to be a thing, but had it's parts ripped out and reconfigured for completely different purposes. Entire ways to simulate being a conscious, involved person in social situations were constructed. I trained myself to do very complex tasks by muscle memory so I could do them while completely exhausted. The complex effects of depressive episodes could be filtered and rewired to emulate happiness. Fatalistic pessimism was employed towards emulating initiative and drive. Their logics and mechanisms were set to fire off automatically according to the myriad of different contexts I found myself in, so I didn't have to consciously engage in the moment, I could just react according to programming. The "machines" as I called them were fine tuned over years. But it seems that entire parts of myself were deactivated having been deemed too difficult to regulate, or too energy intensive. Demanding Critic was as brutal at he was creative. Entire emotional spectrums were pulverised, or at best used as catalysts for the activation of certain mechanics. They weren't properly experienced, because that used up too much energy, and I couldn't trust myself to make it through the day. Same with speculative, ill-defined senses like 'Hope'. It wasn't worth the effects of disappointment. No one could know how much pain I was in, or how much I was really suffering, or how exhausted I really was. Press on you stupid meat-bag. In your state what good is hope or despair? You'd be a poor judge of either. Press on! Hurry up and succeed. It doesn't matter what has happened to you, what people say or do to you, you can barely feel it above the pain anyway. MOVE. MOVE. MOVE.
This process was refined until a semblance of normativity took place externally, and internally I had acclimated to the new approaches that were by now a pretty seamless, responsive system. Something still wasn't right though, and with investigation came the ASD/ADHD diagnosis, then the CPTSD diagnosis. Once again unto the breech, I pushed myself to understand and recover as best I could. Except doing so meant realising what was happening around me, what interpersonal boundaries were, how I was being treated by my loved ones, everything that had really happened to me for thirty-odd years.
Kaboom.
In the aftermath I'm in a difficult, but stable situation, and undergoing schema therapy. Learning about the modes my therapist asked me to talk about the ones I identified. Demanding Critic spoke directly through the keyboard as an intense character: The Machinist. It became obvious that the system of schema therapy lent itself to treating modes as characters within a narrative, and I have just ran with it. The Machinist, interestingly enough, set down his tools and deactivated many of his machines, because if my Therapist and I found a "Better Solution", he wanted in on it, being fundamentally benevolent, and concerned with a Successful Result. Without Schema Therapy lending itself to narrative and mythos, I doubt I could have so easily deactivated the system of "machinery" required to prop me up. It's led to all kinds of shocking discoveries: The missing (No longer presumed dead) Happy Child that has been carefully hidden away amongst the deactivated components of myself. The fact that I lived entirely in the Past or the Future. The present was deemed "Too energy consumptive". I didn't know whether I had a "Healthy Adult Mode", but weirdly The Machinist could fill that roll sometimes but obviously had his limitations. Then out of the void, deactivated parts of me started to come back online. Something started to assert itself in the Present. It was very interested in emotions. Instead of casting them aside and pushing past them to get on with what i was supposed to be doing, it insisted I experience them, decode them and experiment with them. New experiments in the real-time interaction with people were enacted, with the emotional fallout, good and bad, further experimented with. This present-based-thing has been curiously self-compassionate, and has guided me through the difficulties and risks of fully engaging in real time with my emotional spectrum when relating with others, my work, and my life. All for the sake of her experiments. She is The Scientist. She is getting all kinds of results and recording all kinds of functions I had no idea I was capable of. The Machinist is head over heels in love with her, having watched her working over the least two weeks. She's kinda started flirting with him, allowing a desire for perfection to be felt over some work I was doing. "Show me what you can do". I consciously disparaged the desire for perfection, looked down and my consciousness was shocked to discover The Machinist had taken over my motor skills and indeed had made something perfectly, and was having fun. It seems I have two self re-parents.
Now, it's bonkers to read, I'm sure. I apologise. But it's working. It really is fucking working. Take what you can from schema therapy and run with it. Make it yours, whatever that means for you. It's gonna be weird. It's gonna be wild. I reckon the easiest way to engage with it has to be it's propensity for character and narrative, but maybe the path of least resistance for you is some other aspect of it I can't detect.
submitted by STD_ISSUE_ANTHROPOD to SchemaTherapy [link] [comments]
Background: It's probably been just over fourth months of fairly intensive schema therapy. I am in the fortunate situation of having regular appointments with a clinical psychologist. I would say I had two points where I generated schemas. First one was the same as everyone else: Early childhood. Second one was 17-21 when I became effectively bedridden due to chronic illness.
When I have talked about this second period, I describe it as "Having to rebuild who I was from scratch, entirely based around energy efficiency". I remember staring into the pitch blackness of my bedroom during this time, absolutely flawed that the one part of me that seemed to function right was what Schema Therapy might describe as "Demanding Critic". This would have been 18-19 years ago so I had no idea about schema therapy at all, I just had this constant internal dialogue tearing strips off me for not trying harder, not getting up, not fixing myself. I was completely exhausted otherwise, but this damn thing was as active as ever? What the hell, why was it the last thing standing? It was so different from the rest of me. "If you know how to fix everything, be my guest, I'm in your hands, here's the keys!" I remember thinking. Alarmingly, the internal dialog responded: "Fine, I will". "Good fucking luck" I thought, and passed out for several hours. I didn't realise it, but I had just given Demanding Critic a parental role.
Demanding Critic used a process of elimination to tear apart, kludge, re-engineer and jerry-rig me from someone who slept for 16-18 hours a day out of necessity into someone with a degree, a house, a family, a part-time job. It took a while. It wasn't easy. It's amazing what can happen when you give seething self-hatred the keys to your entire self. Punitive critic used to be a thing, but had it's parts ripped out and reconfigured for completely different purposes. Entire ways to simulate being a conscious, involved person in social situations were constructed. I trained myself to do very complex tasks by muscle memory so I could do them while completely exhausted. The complex effects of depressive episodes could be filtered and rewired to emulate happiness. Fatalistic pessimism was employed towards emulating initiative and drive. Their logics and mechanisms were set to fire off automatically according to the myriad of different contexts I found myself in, so I didn't have to consciously engage in the moment, I could just react according to programming. The "machines" as I called them were fine tuned over years. But it seems that entire parts of myself were deactivated having been deemed too difficult to regulate, or too energy intensive. Demanding Critic was as brutal at he was creative. Entire emotional spectrums were pulverised, or at best used as catalysts for the activation of certain mechanics. They weren't properly experienced, because that used up too much energy, and I couldn't trust myself to make it through the day. Same with speculative, ill-defined senses like 'Hope'. It wasn't worth the effects of disappointment. No one could know how much pain I was in, or how much I was really suffering, or how exhausted I really was. Press on you stupid meat-bag. In your state what good is hope or despair? You'd be a poor judge of either. Press on! Hurry up and succeed. It doesn't matter what has happened to you, what people say or do to you, you can barely feel it above the pain anyway. MOVE. MOVE. MOVE.
This process was refined until a semblance of normativity took place externally, and internally I had acclimated to the new approaches that were by now a pretty seamless, responsive system. Something still wasn't right though, and with investigation came the ASD/ADHD diagnosis, then the CPTSD diagnosis. Once again unto the breech, I pushed myself to understand and recover as best I could. Except doing so meant realising what was happening around me, what interpersonal boundaries were, how I was being treated by my loved ones, everything that had really happened to me for thirty-odd years.
Kaboom.
In the aftermath I'm in a difficult, but stable situation, and undergoing schema therapy. Learning about the modes my therapist asked me to talk about the ones I identified. Demanding Critic spoke directly through the keyboard as an intense character: The Machinist. It became obvious that the system of schema therapy lent itself to treating modes as characters within a narrative, and I have just ran with it. The Machinist, interestingly enough, set down his tools and deactivated many of his machines, because if my Therapist and I found a "Better Solution", he wanted in on it, being fundamentally benevolent, and concerned with a Successful Result. Without Schema Therapy lending itself to narrative and mythos, I doubt I could have so easily deactivated the system of "machinery" required to prop me up. It's led to all kinds of shocking discoveries: The missing (No longer presumed dead) Happy Child that has been carefully hidden away amongst the deactivated components of myself. The fact that I lived entirely in the Past or the Future. The present was deemed "Too energy consumptive". I didn't know whether I had a "Healthy Adult Mode", but weirdly The Machinist could fill that roll sometimes but obviously had his limitations. Then out of the void, deactivated parts of me started to come back online. Something started to assert itself in the Present. It was very interested in emotions. Instead of casting them aside and pushing past them to get on with what i was supposed to be doing, it insisted I experience them, decode them and experiment with them. New experiments in the real-time interaction with people were enacted, with the emotional fallout, good and bad, further experimented with. This present-based-thing has been curiously self-compassionate, and has guided me through the difficulties and risks of fully engaging in real time with my emotional spectrum when relating with others, my work, and my life. All for the sake of her experiments. She is The Scientist. She is getting all kinds of results and recording all kinds of functions I had no idea I was capable of. The Machinist is head over heels in love with her, having watched her working over the least two weeks. She's kinda started flirting with him, allowing a desire for perfection to be felt over some work I was doing. "Show me what you can do". I consciously disparaged the desire for perfection, looked down and my consciousness was shocked to discover The Machinist had taken over my motor skills and indeed had made something perfectly, and was having fun. It seems I have two self re-parents.
Now, it's bonkers to read, I'm sure. I apologise. But it's working. It really is fucking working. Take what you can from schema therapy and run with it. Make it yours, whatever that means for you. It's gonna be weird. It's gonna be wild. I reckon the easiest way to engage with it has to be it's propensity for character and narrative, but maybe the path of least resistance for you is some other aspect of it I can't detect.
2024.05.19 10:32 Aggressive-Peanut786 How to memorise this with memorypOS?
Hey all, I just got Memory OS, and I'm looking to memorise the list of questions below. What memory technique would you recommend?
submitted by Aggressive-Peanut786 to memoryOS [link] [comments]
- Where – Where are you from?
- Work – What do you do?
- Ethnicity – What’s your ethnicity?
- Logistics – Logistical questions?
- Know – How do you know the people you’re here with?
- Travel – Have you traveled?
- Craziest – What’s the craziest thing you ever did?
- Adventurous – How adventurous are you?
- Perfect – What would your perfect Saturday be like?
- Terrible – What job would you be absolutely terrible at?
- Strangest – What’s your strangest habit or what easy things do you screw up?
- Rehearse – Before making a call, do you ever rehearse what you're going to say? Why?
- Value – What do you most value in a guy?
- Envision – Where would you like to live when you’re settled down?
- Relationship – What was your longest relationship? Why did you break up?
- Siblings – Do you have brothers and sisters, are you close with them?
- Biggest – What single event has had the biggest impact on who you are?
- Embarrassing – What’s the most embarrassing thing you ever did?
- Sacrifice – What or who would you sacrifice your life for?
- Treasured – What is your most treasured memory?
- Grateful – For what in your life do you feel most grateful?
- Raised – If you could change anything about the way you were raised, what would it be?
- Night – What keeps you up at night?
- Dad – What’s your relationship with your dad like?
- Day – What was your best day ever?
- Death – Of all the people in your family, whose death would you find most disturbing? Why?
- Cheated – Have you ever been cheated on?
- Cry – When did you last cry in front of another person? By yourself?
- Movie – What movie has made you cry the most?
- Memory – What is your most terrible memory?
- Proud – What’s the thing you are most proud of accomplishing in your life?
- Fucked – Which person in your life fucked you over the most?
- Regret – If you were to die this evening with no opportunity to communicate with anyone, what would you most regret not having told someone? Why haven’t you told them yet?
- Embarrassing – What’s the most embarrassing thing you ever did?
2024.05.19 10:31 sanitaryinspector Meyers Briggs: another example of voluntary segregation by women?
 | Working in a factory in the 1940s could have been a wellness dream for many men that had very few career choices other than going down in a mine. submitted by sanitaryinspector to MensRights [link] [comments] Still, when men were being drafted out of factories and into WWII, we curiously got interested in how we could adapt jobs to better fit the personality of each factory worker. What did spark this curiosity in factory workers personalities though? In this specific cases, them being women, it seems. So, in order to be interested in conceiving factory workers as unique individuals with different weaknesses, and therefore adapting workflows to them instead of presumably the inverse, we had to send them at war, and have many women experience men's jobs As far as I can tell, this is pure "improving men's condition once enough women live through it", a product of the voluntary segregation of women that makes people not give a fuss about anything unless there's enough women involved. You see this in all sorts of areas, but here it's curiously relevant to this 16 personality test that has no validity, yet it's irritatingly used as horoscopes by those who believe astrology isn't fashionable enough |
2024.05.19 10:19 JollyPangolin7932 AITA for forcing my fiance to get over his anxiety
My (22f) fiancé (24m) refuses to get a job because of his anxiety. Is there anything I can do or should I just move on? We have a 16 month old and we cannot retire with what I make. I want my kiddo to have a good life and that means two working parents that can attribute to her future. I told him he has no choice but if he cant figure it out himself he needs to see someone. He hasnt worked one day since I was 6 months pregnant and i have fully supported and been by his side since then .
I told him I will not be able to retire making 50k at the peak of my carreer. He said he doesnt need a retirement account. I explained how everyone needs one. I also am wanting to go into a program and its 3 yrs. I told him if he works the 3 yrs Im in school then he doesnt need to work another day in his life. Still refuses. I will be making 100k+ a year to start right out of school
Im tired of trying to help someone that wont help themselves. AITAH
submitted by JollyPangolin7932 to AITAH [link] [comments]
I told him I will not be able to retire making 50k at the peak of my carreer. He said he doesnt need a retirement account. I explained how everyone needs one. I also am wanting to go into a program and its 3 yrs. I told him if he works the 3 yrs Im in school then he doesnt need to work another day in his life. Still refuses. I will be making 100k+ a year to start right out of school
Im tired of trying to help someone that wont help themselves. AITAH
2024.05.19 09:55 Informal-Reading4602 I’m so tired, please give me some motivation
Dad of a 16 month old, I got laid off of my job and we are behind on all of our bills, I just got done with my seventh 14 hour shift in a row at dominos, since they were willing to hiring me on the spot for the most reasonable pay due to past experience. Just received notice that rents bumping up 100 dollars next month after my lease ends.
I feel like there’s nothing I can do to get ahead and keep my daughter safe, my feet are sore and bleeding, I just got home and sobbed for the first time in years in the shower. Please someone tell me this gets easier eventually.
submitted by Informal-Reading4602 to daddit [link] [comments]
I feel like there’s nothing I can do to get ahead and keep my daughter safe, my feet are sore and bleeding, I just got home and sobbed for the first time in years in the shower. Please someone tell me this gets easier eventually.
2024.05.19 09:40 ag_abhi Attempt CAT 24 or settle with Nagpur?
Profile - GEM fresher (8,8,8) 98.6x percentile, 2024 graduate (Got calls from iim m, cap, amritsar, iift) My best convert is IIM Nagpur
Im under the assumption that its impossible for me to get calls from ABLKI
I have a job offer from a Big 4 at 8 lpa Really confused because even though it’s gonna be a big jump from my current salary (median of nagpur being 16), im not interested in marketing roles. Pls help!
submitted by ag_abhi to CATpreparation [link] [comments]
Im under the assumption that its impossible for me to get calls from ABLKI
I have a job offer from a Big 4 at 8 lpa Really confused because even though it’s gonna be a big jump from my current salary (median of nagpur being 16), im not interested in marketing roles. Pls help!
2024.05.19 09:29 kokuluayak Jobs bills
 | submitted by kokuluayak to namesoundalikes [link] [comments] |
2024.05.19 09:25 asdfzbruster New Grad Looking for Advice and Guidance!
Hello! Long-time lurker and a reader of the subreddit’s wiki page. But I am looking for more individualized advice on my situation. To give some context, I am 23 years old, and I recently graduated last year. I just got a job this past March and will be getting a promotion or raise in August.
I currently live at home and pay no bills outside of personal debts and luxuries. My parents have allowed me to do this until I complete my PhD, which is not for another 5ish years.
My personal finance strategy is to invest $1,000 of my next paycheck into my Roth IRA to max out the yearly contributions. And then I started to build up my emergency fund to around $9,000, which is a six-month emergency fund to pay off my monthly bills. Afterward, I will continue to invest in my brokerage account, diversifying my portfolio.
My investment strategy for my brokerage account is 70/30 in VTI/growth stocks (MSFT, APPL, GOOG, and AMZN). My 401k has a target date fund. And my ROTH IRA is 100% in VOO.
If there’s anything I should start looking into or fixing, please let me know because I am brand new to this and I want to be financially responsible! Thank you in advance.
Overview:
Personal Finance:
Pre-Tax Income: $48,000
Checking: $2,000
Savings: $1,000
Credit Score: 763
Bills:
Monthly Credit Card Statement: ~$200-400
Monthly Car Payment: $807.71
Monthly Student Loan Payment: $278.59
Loans:
Car Loan: ~$40,000 with 6.87% APR for 60 Month Term
Student Loans: ~$27,000 with 2.50 - 5.00% APR (Public Service Loan Forgiveness)
Investment/Retirement:
401k (5% Full Match): $780
ROTH IRA ($6000/$7000 Yearly Contributions): $6200
Brokerage Account: $16,900
Crypto: $1,000 (BTC/ETH)
submitted by asdfzbruster to personalfinance [link] [comments]
I currently live at home and pay no bills outside of personal debts and luxuries. My parents have allowed me to do this until I complete my PhD, which is not for another 5ish years.
My personal finance strategy is to invest $1,000 of my next paycheck into my Roth IRA to max out the yearly contributions. And then I started to build up my emergency fund to around $9,000, which is a six-month emergency fund to pay off my monthly bills. Afterward, I will continue to invest in my brokerage account, diversifying my portfolio.
My investment strategy for my brokerage account is 70/30 in VTI/growth stocks (MSFT, APPL, GOOG, and AMZN). My 401k has a target date fund. And my ROTH IRA is 100% in VOO.
If there’s anything I should start looking into or fixing, please let me know because I am brand new to this and I want to be financially responsible! Thank you in advance.
Overview:
Personal Finance:
Pre-Tax Income: $48,000
Checking: $2,000
Savings: $1,000
Credit Score: 763
Bills:
Monthly Credit Card Statement: ~$200-400
Monthly Car Payment: $807.71
Monthly Student Loan Payment: $278.59
Loans:
Car Loan: ~$40,000 with 6.87% APR for 60 Month Term
Student Loans: ~$27,000 with 2.50 - 5.00% APR (Public Service Loan Forgiveness)
Investment/Retirement:
401k (5% Full Match): $780
ROTH IRA ($6000/$7000 Yearly Contributions): $6200
Brokerage Account: $16,900
Crypto: $1,000 (BTC/ETH)
2024.05.19 09:15 ConsequenceSure3063 Best Cardboard Picture Frames
 | submitted by ConsequenceSure3063 to u/ConsequenceSure3063 [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/m8o1nk8s2c1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a94ad95f9b1efef03101f1865a793b3e866b0d06 Looking for a unique and eco-friendly way to display your cherished memories? Our collection of cardboard picture frames not only adds a playful touch but also offers a sustainable alternative to traditional frames. In this roundup, we'll explore various styles, materials, and designs that will make your photos stand out, all while keeping your environmental impact in check. The Top 19 Best Cardboard Picture Frames
Reviews🔗DIY Cardboard Picture Frames (5 x 7 in, 30 Pack)https://preview.redd.it/ykdiw5ts2c1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=bc90558603f175fc6641f2f7434acea9b5128073 I recently got my hands on Juvale's 5x7 inch Cardboard Picture Frames, and I must say, they've been a game-changer in my world of DIY home decor. With their bright colors and simple yet sturdy design, these frames are perfect for personalizing with jewels, glitter, and more. One standout feature for me was their ability to fit 5x7-inch photos perfectly. It's been great for displaying cherished moments around the house, just like snapping photos of our recent birthday party. The attached stand is convenient, making it easy to set up and show off your creations without needing an extra easel! However, there's a minor downside to these frames: their thickness. While they look sturdy enough, they might not hold heavier items such as thick cards or large paper cut-outs. Despite this, their durability has been impressive so far, even after a few creative paint jobs! Overall, I can't recommend Juvale's Cardboard Picture Frames enough. Their vibrant colors and simple design make them a perfect addition to any DIY home decor project or special occasion. So go ahead, unleash your creativity and make something amazing! 🔗DIY Picture Frame Kit with 50 Frameshttps://preview.redd.it/zd4zho4t2c1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=91332a093d6f1fc2b97dbd2afa2a48547b4751eb As a creative individual who loves DIY projects, I recently got my hands on the Juvale Cardboard Paper Picture Frame DIY Hanging Kit (50 Pack) 4x6 inch, Black, White. From the moment I unboxed it, I could tell it was going to be a game-changer for my decorating needs. Each of the 50 paper cardboard photo frames comes with a mini clothespin and a piece of hanging twine, making it easy to display various memories and artwork around my home or office. One of the features that truly stood out during my use of this DIY kit was its versatility. Not only can you create unique framed pieces for any space, but you can also get creative and embellish these frames with different materials, like paints, jewels, rhinestones, glitter, labels, stickers, and more. I especially appreciated the fact that the frames can be displayed both vertically and horizontally, allowing me to experiment with different layouts and compositions. Another aspect of this DIY kit that I genuinely appreciated was its affordability. Given that I received 50 frames along with clothespins and twine, it gave me ample opportunities to decorate multiple areas in my house without breaking the bank. Additionally, the black and white color options make it easy to blend these frames into any decor style. However, it's essential to note a few cons that I encountered while using this product. Some of the cardboard frames were slightly thinner and more delicate than others, so extra care must be taken during handling. Additionally, the hanging twine provided could have been slightly longer for easier installation in various locations. Overall, I would highly recommend the Juvale Cardboard Paper Picture Frame DIY Hanging Kit (50 Pack) 4x6 inch, Black, White for anyone who enjoys DIY projects and wants to create personalized photo displays in their homes or workspaces. Its versatility, color options, and affordability make it a worthwhile investment in your decorating endeavors. 🔗Colorful Vibrant Paper Frames for Art Displays and Photo Props (24 Pieces)https://preview.redd.it/wb9rh4nt2c1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2469a1f793f451a4cb42af6fb037248d9973273d I recently purchased these paper frames for my classroom decorations, and I must say, they have been a game-changer! The vibrant colors and fun designs instantly caught my eye. I particularly appreciated the two versatile sizes that could easily accommodate various photo sizes. The small frames were incredibly easy to use as they were designed with a photo space that perfectly fit a letter-sized paper, making it a breeze to display student artwork or use them as props for our fun photo booth activities. However, I did find that the larger frames needed some trimming and resizing to fit smaller images, but overall, they were still worth the effort. One minor drawback was the lack of a smaller size option, as I believe it would be even more versatile and useful in various applications. Nonetheless, these paper frames have significantly enhanced the appearance of my classroom decorations, and I look forward to using them in other creative ways. To summarize, the paper frames are an excellent investment for anyone looking to add a pop of color and creativity to their space. They are easy to use, have a sturdy cardstock thickness, and are available in a variety of fun designs. Although they may require some trimming for certain applications, the end result is definitely worth the effort. 🔗25-Pack Black Cardboard Picture Frames with Gold Foil Borderhttps://preview.redd.it/n8ytioau2c1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=425a9d7bff8384bcf4180d9d0919c941db9b8136 As a cardboard enthusiast, I recently had the pleasure of using these elegant 8.5x11 black picture frames with gold foil borders in my DIY home decor project. The moment I took them out of their 25-piece packaging, I was instantly drawn to their timeless quality and that exquisite golden finish. One thing that truly stood out for me was how easy these frames were to set up. Their side-load design made it incredibly simple to display and switch between my favorite photos, without any hassle. Plus, the linen weave finish added a touch of sophistication to my space. Moreover, the frames come with a pop-up easel, which allows them to be displayed horizontally or vertically. This versatility made it easy to showcase both horizontal and vertical certificates or prints, in a professional manner. However, one minor con I experienced was that the window opening wasn't quite precise, and required a little adjustment to fit my 8x10 prints perfectly. Nonetheless, considering their excellent construction and affordability, these cardboard frames are definitely worth the investment. So, if you're in search of a cost-effective yet elegant solution to frame your memories or certificates, look no further! These cardboard picture frames deliver on both style and functionality, making them an ideal choice for anyone in need of a little DIY touch. 🔗DIY 5x7in Wall Paper Photo Frames with Flax String and Clipshttps://preview.redd.it/zduntwvu2c1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3f355ea6dd5245f1924f8344fd4c043f985d0255 I've been using the Jahosin wall paper picture frames for a month now and I must say, they've significantly upgraded my home décor. The first thing that drew me to them is their unique DIY design with linkage mounted cardboard frames and flax string clips. The 30-frame set is versatile and stylish, perfect for displaying photos, Christmas cards, and artworks at events like weddings or birthdays. They're incredibly easy to assemble, each frame comes with its own clips and a piece of flax string, making it a fun project that the entire family can participate in. They fit standard 5x7 inch pictures, coming in three attractive colors - black, brown, and white. Their pure handcraft and non-toxic material make them a safe addition to any home, and the brilliant artwork on the fronts is a bonus. The only downside I've noticed is that the cardboard isn't the sturdiest, so they might need extra care when being hung or moved around. But overall, these picture frames have been a great addition to my home, adding a touch of art and creativity to my living space. So if you're in the market for unique, affordable photo frames, I highly recommend giving the Jahosin 5x7 inch wall paper picture frames a try. 🔗DIY 5x7 Photo Frames for Home Decorhttps://preview.redd.it/ftrv137v2c1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=967e9bc07bde7b52dd9dcc15924751cc16ded1cc I recently discovered the Jahosin 5x7in Wall Paper Picture Frames and let me tell you, they've been a game-changer for my home decor. As soon as they arrived, I dove right in to create a unique and artistic display on my living room wall. The set of 30 frames comes in three colors and includes flax string and clips for easy mounting. The first thing that stood out to me was the pure hand craft element of these frames. Made with non-toxic, harmless kraft paper material, they're not only stylish but also safe for the whole family. The quality is evident in the craftsmanship and the vibrant printing patterns that bring life to my space. One thing I noticed is that these frames are designed specifically to hold 5x7in pictures, which made it difficult to fit some of my larger prints. However, this constraint did force me to be more creative with my photo selections, ultimately resulting in a more cohesive and eclectic display. Overall, I'm thrilled with my purchase of these DIY Photo Frames from Jahosin. They've added a unique and personal touch to my home decor while also encouraging me to curate a thoughtful collection of cherished memories. If you're looking to transform your living space, I highly recommend giving these picture frames a try! 🔗DIY 50-Pack Picture Frames for Wall Decor with Clips and Stringshttps://preview.redd.it/9bxajpjv2c1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9094b6a76da4b746505626459b1d589da2f6dda7 I was recently looking for a way to display my favorite memories, and I stumbled upon the Juvale 50 Pack Paper Picture Frames. These paper frames added a personal touch to my home decor and were a hit at our family gatherings. First off, the variety and versatility of these paper frames blew me away. They come in 50 different colors, which made it easy for me to match them to my existing dcor. The mini clothespins and hanging twine included made it a breeze to create a stunning photo hanging display on my wall. Plus, they're perfect for DIY craft projects. I had a blast embellishing my frames with glitter, stickers, and paint. However, I found that the actual size of the frames was slightly smaller than I thought. But it wasn't a deal-breaker, as they still worked perfectly for showcasing my favorite photos. All in all, I'd highly recommend the Juvale 50 Pack Paper Picture Frames for anyone looking for a fun and affordable way to display their cherished memories. 🔗Customizable DIY Paper Picture Frameshttps://preview.redd.it/0dgwjo1w2c1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1e26ee80ba0eb94e5a619d0c1079c3559c8f0e20 When I first tried out the Jahosin 5x7in Paper Picture Frames, I was pleasantly surprised by how stylish and creative they were. The handcrafted, non-toxic kraft paper material felt like a breath of fresh air compared to the usual plastic frames. The set came with 10 frames, 10 mini clips, and a string, making it easy to display photos, Christmas cards, and art works in a casual and artistic way. One of the key highlights for me was how easy it was to customize these frames. The DIY linkage design allowed me to arrange the frames in various ways, making them perfect for displaying memories during special occasions like weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and graduations. Plus, they also added a touch of love, happiness, and wild living spirit to my space. However, I did notice that the frames are quite delicate, so they may not be ideal for families with young children who might accidentally damage them. Additionally, the kraft paper material can absorb moisture, making the frames more susceptible to warping or damage in humid environments. Overall, I found the Jahosin 5x7in Paper Picture Frames to be a comfortable and creative addition to my home decor, adding a touch of warmth to any space they were placed in. I would recommend these frames to anyone looking to display their special memories in a unique and stylish way. 🔗Customizable Kraft Paper Photo Frames (50 Pack)https://preview.redd.it/xh2lgs9w2c1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1bd1f7831056776ccd5bc6afc7611a6982a2ee03 I recently used the Juvale Kraft Paper Picture Frames to decorate my living room and create personalized gifts for friends. The 50-pack is perfect for batch-making, especially when working on DIY projects. Crafted from cardboard, these frames are lightweight and easy to customize with paints, stickers, and other embellishments. One feature that truly stood out was the compatibility with 4x6 inch photos, which means I could feature a variety of images from different occasions. Additionally, the kraft paper texture provides a warm, rustic touch to any space. However, I must admit that the cardboard material isn't as sturdy as traditional frames, so they might not hold up well in humid or high-traffic areas. In conclusion, the Juvale Kraft Paper Picture Frames are perfect for DIY crafts, personalized gifts, and decorations. Their brown color and versatile size make them an ideal choice for various occasions and interior design styles. Despite the flimsy nature of the material, the ease of customization and affordability make these frames a worthwhile addition to your DIY toolkit. 🔗50-Pack White Cardboard Photo Picture Frames, 4x6 Incheshttps://preview.redd.it/4c3fylow2c1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=40ca70b8c0efd0320f6d3d0f13206626e1d64806 As a frequent user of these 50-pack cardboard photo picture frames, I can attest to their ease of use. They are perfect for displaying your favorite 4x6-inch family photos, artwork, and memories. The attached stands allow for easy setup on surfaces like desks and tables, and you can unleash your creativity by personalizing these frames with markers, crayons, rubber stamps, colored pencils, and various paints. However, the one thing that left me unimpressed was the size of the easel. Though it held the 4x6-inch photos nicely, I wish it had a thicker and more professional appearance. The attached stand could be more sturdy, especially if you plan on using it for more presentable purposes like selling art cards. In contrast, I found that the frames were easy to customize, enabling me to express my artistic side while displaying my favorite memories. If you're looking for a quick and easy way to showcase your photos, these cardboard frames are a great choice. Just remember to handle them with care to prevent tearing if you decide to use them for more professional purposes. Overall, I've had a relatively smooth experience using these frames, but there's definitely room for improvement when it comes to their sturdiness and presentation. 🔗Personalized Eco-Friendly Paper Photo Frames (30pcs 4x6) for Wall Decorhttps://preview.redd.it/j4w29h4x2c1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=52efbb82e79643186434cd45a45904d81dd703cc As an avid fan of unique wall decor, I recently stumbled upon the Cardboard Picture Frames 30 Pack. These retro-chic frames have quickly become a staple in my home, adding a touch of whimsy to my otherwise monotonous walls. Made from high-quality, recyclable paper, these frames are not only eco-friendly but also surprisingly durable. The matching wooden clips and string add a lovely contrast, giving my photos a charming, vintage appearance. The DIY nature of these frames is another highlight - they're incredibly easy to install and hang, making them accessible for everyone, regardless of their experience with DIY projects. These frames aren't just for personal use, they're perfect for gifting too. They're versatile enough to be used as wedding, engagement, anniversary, or birthday gifts. Their ability to add a touch of elegance and charm to any setting is truly remarkable. However, one minor drawback is that they're 4x6 inches, which may not accommodate larger photos. But overall, these Cardboard Picture Frames have been a fantastic addition to my home, adding a touch of personalized charm and retro vibe that I absolutely adore. 🔗30 Pcs Kraft Cardboard Photo Frames with Wood Clips and Jute Twinehttps://preview.redd.it/iuyowrgx2c1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1f2a981cd5b427918fee4bc478ea26a13037cc72 I recently purchased the Novelty Bank Paper Photo Frame set and it has been a game-changer for displaying my favorite memories. The simple yet elegant design of these 30 kraft paper frames sets off my photos perfectly. The art paper used is thick and flat, and the full back protects my pictures from dust and oxidation. Measuring 6 1/8 INCH tall by 4 1/2 INCH wide, with a window sized 4 INCH by 3 INCH, these frames are the perfect accessory for adding a touch of charm to my rooms and walls. One feature I particularly love is the adjustable design, which allows me to customize the size of the window to fit different sized photos. The included wooden clips and jute string make it easy to hang these frames wherever I want, creating a visually appealing display that is sure to impress. However, I did experience a minor issue with the quality of the jute string. It was slightly frayed and snapped after a few uses. Despite this, the overall quality of the product more than compensates for this small flaw, and I highly recommend these DIY Cardboard Photo Frames for anyone looking to enhance their space with personalized memories. 🔗DIY Cardboard Easel Photo Frames (50 Pack) 4x6 Inches 10 Colorshttps://preview.redd.it/oaeqs2sx2c1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4b8a13dccd18269a0890d944c225c5c21be7d388 I recently started using the Juvale Cardboard Photo Picture Frames to display some of my favorite memories and I absolutely fell in love with them. These little frames are not only versatile in terms of placement- standing vertically or horizontally- but also offer a variety of bright colors like yellow, light pink, and green, that make your photos pop. One feature that stood out for me was how easy they are to customize. You can embellish them with paints, rhinestones, glitter, stickers and other decorative elements, making each frame as unique as the person who owns it. However, there's a minor downside too. When using bigger hands, inserting the photos into the frame can be a bit challenging. But other than that, these photo frames are perfect for displaying your special memories! I've used these photo frames for displaying my daughter's adorable drawings, my favorite wedding photos, and even used them as party decorations. They really brighten up any space! If you're looking to add a touch of personalization and color to your photos, the Juvale Cardboard Photo Picture Frames won't disappoint you! Buyer's GuideWhether you're looking to add a unique touch to your home decor or wanting to gift someone special, cardboard picture frames are an affordable and eco-friendly option. This buyer's guide will take you through the important features, considerations, and general advice about choosing the perfect cardboard picture frame for your needs.Features to Considerhttps://preview.redd.it/33ldsr213c1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f159cb1b1d52506969e96b7d953f0c105979896d
ConsiderationsWhen selecting cardboard picture frames, it's essential to think about how they will be displayed. If you plan to hang them on a wall, ensure they have an integrated hanging mechanism or that you can easily attach one. Additionally, consider the durability of the cardboard material, especially if the frame will be exposed to varying temperatures or humidity levels.General Advice
https://preview.redd.it/8pt3crh13c1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=79436cee148e7778d97f678aeed5f805c9c536b1 FAQ1. What are cardboard picture frames?Cardboard picture frames are affordable, lightweight, and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional frames made from wood, metal, or plastic. They are often customizable and can display photos or artwork in various sizes.2. How do cardboard picture frames compare to other types of frames?https://preview.redd.it/naxaprv13c1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=89ec506e34f468bacdd367f2e82950d8ef2a475c Cardboard frames are generally more affordable and lightweight than other types of frames. However, they may not offer the same level of durability or sturdiness as wood or metal frames. Cardboard frames are also eco-friendly, as they use recycled materials in their construction. 3. Are cardboard picture frames customizable?Yes, many cardboard picture frames come with the option for customization. This may include choosing between different colors, patterns, or sizes. Some cardboard frames also allow for personalized messages or designs on the frame itself.4. Can cardboard picture frames display photos and artwork?Yes, cardboard picture frames can display both photos and artwork, depending on the design of the frame. Some frames come with adjustable stands or hooks, allowing them to be displayed on tables, shelves, or walls. https://preview.redd.it/1enr5q923c1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=03e6f94c4fee79b3311c7e5157c06c21388d3e96 5. How do I care for my cardboard picture frame?To care for your cardboard picture frame, handle it gently and avoid exposing it to excessive moisture or heat. Dust the frame regularly with a soft brush or cloth and store it in a cool, dry place when not in use.6. How much do cardboard picture frames cost?The cost of cardboard picture frames varies depending on the design, size, and customization options. Generally, they are more affordable than traditional frames made from wood, metal, or plastic.7. Where can I purchase cardboard picture frames?Cardboard picture frames can be purchased at various stores, both online and offline, that specialize in home decor, stationery, and art supplies. Major retailers and marketplaces like Amazon and Etsy also offer a wide selection of cardboard picture frames.8. Are cardboard picture frames suitable for outdoor use?While some cardboard frames may be suitable for indoor use, it is not recommended to use them outdoors, as they are more susceptible to moisture damage and less able to withstand harsh weather conditions compared to traditional frames.9. Can I recycle a cardboard picture frame?Yes, cardboard picture frames are generally made from recycled materials and can be recycled again at the end of their useful life. Ensure that you recycle the frame with other paper products, following your local recycling guidelines.10. How do I assemble a cardboard picture frame?Assembling a cardboard picture frame usually involves a few simple steps, such as sliding the photo or artwork into the frame, attaching the back panel, and securing any hooks or stands for display.
|
2024.05.19 09:05 Alteredchaos 📢 Sunday News - with a focus on carers this week
Ministers apologise and return £7,000 in benefits to woman, 93, with dementia
Government ministers have formally apologised and repaid £7,000 to a 93-year-old woman whom they held responsible for running up benefits overpayment debts even though they were told she had dementia and was unable to manage her affairs.
The case, which the minister for disability, Mims Davies, admitted was “disturbing”, was brought to light by the Guardian as part of its investigation into carer's allowance overpayments.
The agreement to write off the debt of the 93-year-old, whom the Guardian has chosen not to name, comes as ministers have promised to try new ways of sharing information with carers to try to prevent them building up months and years of overpayments.
Read the full article on theguardian.com
DWP confirmed that it is developing an ‘enhanced notification strategy’ to alert carer’s allowance claimants to possible overpayments
Notifications designed to encourage claimants to report changes in income and so reduce the risk of being overpaid.
As part of its policy paper, Fighting Fraud in the Welfare System: Going Further, that was published earlier this week, the Department says (at paragraph 78) -
Stephen Timms has also written to Secretary for State for Work and Pensions Mel Stride highlighting concerns about the DWP's lack of progress with overpayments since the previous committee's report in 2019. Mr Timms' letter repeats the committee's recommendation that the DWP increase the rate of carer's allowance and goes on to call for the DWP to review both the amount and the cliff-edge nature of the earnings limit and for the removal of the 21-hour study rule.
For more information, see Policy paper: Fighting Fraud in the Welfare System: Going Further from gov.uk
Carers UK has welcomed the DWP's plans, noting this is the 'minimum' they've been calling for to tackle carers' overpayments. However, Director of Policy and Public Affairs Emily Holzhausen also highlights that implementing the strategy is 'urgent', asks that the whole issue be moved out of being branded benefits fraud, and that carer's allowance be reviewed as it should be 'modernised to reflect the realities of caring'.
DWP-commissioned research highlights how the carer’s allowance earnings threshold influences decisions about how many hours carers work
Report also makes clear that the Department was made aware three years ago that there was room to improve claimant understanding and possibly reduce mistakes leading to overpayments by improving its communications.
The research, Experiences of claiming and receiving carer’s allowance, explores how and why people claim carer's allowance; their caring roles; experiences of combining paid work and care; and how well claimants understand the rules associated with the benefit. While carried out in 2020/2021, the research has been published today against a backdrop of calls for the wholescale reform of carer's allowance as a result of evidence that claimants who have earned above the carer's allowance earnings limit have been left with large overpayments and, in some cases, prosecuted for fraud.
While the research found that many claimants in employment felt there was a practical limit to the hours they could work, with many saying it was only feasible to be working part-time due to their caring responsibilities, it also found that -
In addition, with the Chair of the Select Committee Stephen Timms having said recently that the DWP has done nothing to stop carers building up huge overpayments despite knowing what people are earning, and the Committee having called on the National Audit Office to investigate the problems with the system, the research found that -
Almost 135,000 people currently have an outstanding carer's allowance debt, with more than £250 million owed in total, according to figures supplied by DWP Minister Paul Maynard
DWP Minister also confirms that women represent 68 per cent of those with an outstanding debt.
Responding to a written question in Parliament from Work and Pensions Committee Chair Stephen Timms, Mr Maynard said -
Mr Maynard's written answer is available from parliament.uk
Total value of benefit overpayments in 2023/2024 increased to almost £10 billion, representing 3.7 per cent of benefit expenditure for the year
New DWP figures also show that official error underpayments remained at around £1 billion, and that people could have claimed more than £3 billion more 'if they had provided accurate information about their circumstances'.
In Fraud and error in the benefit system: financial year 2023 to 2024 estimates, the DWP calculates how much money it overpaid or underpaid as a percentage of total benefit expenditure for the year (£266.2bn) - for benefits including universal credit, housing benefit, personal independence payment, employment and support allowance and pension credit - and how many claims were paid an incorrect amount.
Note: the statistics no longer include estimates of claimant error underpayments as these are now published separately, as confirmed in recent DWP guidance.
In relation to incorrect payment rates across all benefits for the financial year ending (FYE) 2024, the figures show that the total rate of benefit expenditure overpaid was 3.7 per cent (£9.7bn), compared with 3.6 per cent (£8.3bn) in 2022/2023. In addition, the total rate of benefit expenditure underpaid was 0.4 per cent (£1.1bn), compared with 0.5 per cent (£1.2bn) in FYE 2023.
Looking in more detail at the figures for individual benefits, the statistics include data showing that -
Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride has set out the DWP's plans to scale up its 'fight against fraudsters'
New measures include using machine learning to detect and prevent fraudulent claims, as well as introducing a new Bill to enable benefit fraud to be treated like tax fraud.
Issuing a written statement in the House of Commons on 13th May, Mr Stride said -
For more information, see DWP updates Fraud Plan from gov.uk
In response to the above article the Disability News Service reported that the government's fraud policy paper ignores coroner’s concerns over review of disabled woman’s universal credit claim. Read the DNS article on disabilitynewsservice.com
Less than half of legacy benefit claimants who were sent a migration notice between July 2022 and March 2024 have made a claim for universal credit, according to new figures from the DWP
However, new DWP statistics also show that 60 per cent of households that claimed universal credit have been awarded transitional protection.
In Completing the move to Universal Credit: statistics related to the move of households claiming Tax Credits and DWP benefits to Universal Credit: data to end of March 2024, the DWP sets out figures for the period since July 2022, noting that -
Note: the DWP has also published Universal Credit statistics, 29 April 2013 to 11 April 2024 which show that there were 6.7 million people on universal credit in April 2024 (300,000 more than the 6.4 million in January 2024) and that half of households on universal credit that received a payment in February 2024 included children.
Department for Communities also confirms that claimants in receipt of other legacy benefits will be issued with migration notices 'in the coming months'
The Department for Communities (DfC) has confirmed that the 'Move to UC' rollout in Northern Ireland has expanded this week to include people receiving tax credits along with housing benefit.
Announcing the expansion of the process, Deputy Secretary of Work and Health at the DfC Paddy Rooney said -
For more information, see Tax credit with housing benefit recipients next to 'Move to UC' and Rollout of Universal Credit for Tax Credit and Legacy Benefit customers - screening from ni.gov.uk
57,000 adverse universal credit sanction decisions were made in January 2024, according to new DWP statistics
DWP statistics also highlight that around 95 per cent of decisions are as a result of failure to attend or participate in a mandatory interview.
In Benefit sanctions statistics to February 2024, the DWP reports on both the rate and duration of sanctions for universal credit claimants who are in conditionality regimes where they be applied.
Key findings include that -
The DWP notes that -
For more information, see Benefit sanctions statistics to February 2024 from gov.uk
DWP has admitted missing multiple opportunities to record the 'vulnerability' of a disabled woman whose death was later linked by a coroner to failings at the heart of its UC system
The Disability News Service reported on the case of Nazerine (known as Naz) Anderson, from Melton Mowbray, who died of an overdose in June last year, after receiving a UC review notice.
According to a prevention of future deaths (PFD) report sent to the department by coroner Fiona Butler, the DWP missed six opportunities to record Anderson’s “vulnerability” on its IT system while it was reviewing her universal credit claim, and had failed to act on the mental distress she showed in phone calls about her claim. It also repeatedly failed to act on requests to direct its telephone calls and letters to her daughter.
The DWP admits multiple universal credit failures before disabled woman’s death article is available on disabilitynewsservice.com
Number of emergency food parcels distributed across the UK by the Trussell Trust has increased by 90 per cent over the past five years
Food charity reports that it distributed more than three million parcels last year, with more than a million of them going to children.
In Emergency food parcel distribution in the UK: April 2023 - March 2024, the Trust says that it distributed 3,121,404 food parcels, the most parcels that it has ever distributed in a financial year, representing a four per cent increase on last year's record-breaking numbers for 2022/2023 and a 94 per cent increase since 2018/2019.
The charity also highlights that the number of parcels provided to children has continued to rise, exceeding 1.1 million in 2023/2024, and that food bank support is provided disproportionately to children, compared to the proportion of children in the UK population. In addition, it notes that pension age households are increasingly likely to need to use a food bank, with food bank support for these households having more than quadrupled between 2018/2019 and 2023/2024 (an increase of 345 per cent), compared to an 81 per cent rise amongst households without someone of pension age.
Also sharing statistics on the reason for referral for an emergency food parcel - which include health, benefit issues, work hour changes, insecure housing, changes in personal circumstances, immigration status and domestic abuse, as well as income and debt levels - the Trussell Trust says -
Employment Minister Jo Churchill has provided a House of Lords Select Committee with an undertaking that the administrative earnings threshold (AET) in universal credit will not be increased again without a 'sound evidence base'
However, Minister's evidence to Lords Committee fails to address its dissatisfaction with DWP's explanation for not publishing robust evidence to support previous increases in the threshold.
Further to the Lords Secondary Legislation Scrutiny Committee's report on new regulations that implemented a further increase in the AET from 13 May 2024 - that criticised the ‘inexplicable’ lack of data evaluating previous increases in the threshold in September 2022 and January 2023 - the Committee held a one-off evidence session yesterday to question the Minister and DWP officials.
Introducing the session, Committee Chair Lord Hunt acknowledged that the DWP had agreed to share its informal findings supporting its AET policy. However Lord Hunt added that -
In response, Ms Churchill highlighted that the Department did publish a randomised controlled trial evaluation in 2018 providing the highest level of evidence on the impacts of increased in-work conditionality that Ministers have had sight of. When challenged that this evidence is somewhat outdated and 'a bit threadbare' - as it has been relied on for three increases in the AET - Ms Churchill indicated that Ministers also had early sight of unpublished research (a Regression Discontinuity Design (RDD) study) that compares the experiences of claimants who are just below and just above the AET.
When pressed on the expected publication dates for this and further evidence, Mr Churchill said -
Despite welcoming the Minister's reply, Lord Hunt went on to say -
Work and Pensions Select Committee has called on the government to bring forward proposals to compensate women born in the 1950s who suffered as a result of the DWP's communication failures when their pension age was increased, and asks that it does so in the current parliamentary session
Committee chair highlights lengthy delay and urgency for affected women and calls on government to act on Parliamentary Ombudsman recommendations before summer recess.
Writing to Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Mel Stride, Committee Chair Stephen Timms requests government support for 'urgent action' following the Parliamentary Ombudsman's final report in March 2024 which recommended a remedy based on level 4 of its severity of injustice scale, putting awards at between £1,000 and £2,950.
Mr Timms says that the Committee does not seek to question the Ombudsman's proposal for compensation at level 4, but instead has focused on what a remedy may look like -
Mr Timms also asks the government to consider -
submitted by Alteredchaos to DWPhelp [link] [comments]
Government ministers have formally apologised and repaid £7,000 to a 93-year-old woman whom they held responsible for running up benefits overpayment debts even though they were told she had dementia and was unable to manage her affairs.
The case, which the minister for disability, Mims Davies, admitted was “disturbing”, was brought to light by the Guardian as part of its investigation into carer's allowance overpayments.
The agreement to write off the debt of the 93-year-old, whom the Guardian has chosen not to name, comes as ministers have promised to try new ways of sharing information with carers to try to prevent them building up months and years of overpayments.
Read the full article on theguardian.com
DWP confirmed that it is developing an ‘enhanced notification strategy’ to alert carer’s allowance claimants to possible overpayments
Notifications designed to encourage claimants to report changes in income and so reduce the risk of being overpaid.
As part of its policy paper, Fighting Fraud in the Welfare System: Going Further, that was published earlier this week, the Department says (at paragraph 78) -
'In carer’s allowance we are progressing an enhanced notification strategy as part of our existing commitment to improve customer engagement, building on our existing communications with customers. As part of this notification strategy we are considering all forms of targeted contact to find the most effective and efficient solution, such as exploring the use of targeted text messages or emails to alert claimants and encourage them to contact the Department when the DWP is made aware of a potential overpayment.'The Department added -
'The new strategy will help claimants understand when they may have received an earnings-related overpayment or are at risk of doing so, and will encourage claimants to contact the DWP to meet their obligation to inform the Department of changes in their income and other relevant circumstances. This will reduce the risk of those customers being overpaid.'Note: having expressed concern that the DWP had 'done nothing' to stop carers building up huge overpayments of benefit despite knowing what people are earning, Work and Pensions Committee Chair Stephen Timms called on the National Audit Office to investigate problems with the carer's allowance system and, in particular, its failure to prevent or rectify overpayments.
Stephen Timms has also written to Secretary for State for Work and Pensions Mel Stride highlighting concerns about the DWP's lack of progress with overpayments since the previous committee's report in 2019. Mr Timms' letter repeats the committee's recommendation that the DWP increase the rate of carer's allowance and goes on to call for the DWP to review both the amount and the cliff-edge nature of the earnings limit and for the removal of the 21-hour study rule.
For more information, see Policy paper: Fighting Fraud in the Welfare System: Going Further from gov.uk
Carers UK has welcomed the DWP's plans, noting this is the 'minimum' they've been calling for to tackle carers' overpayments. However, Director of Policy and Public Affairs Emily Holzhausen also highlights that implementing the strategy is 'urgent', asks that the whole issue be moved out of being branded benefits fraud, and that carer's allowance be reviewed as it should be 'modernised to reflect the realities of caring'.
DWP-commissioned research highlights how the carer’s allowance earnings threshold influences decisions about how many hours carers work
Report also makes clear that the Department was made aware three years ago that there was room to improve claimant understanding and possibly reduce mistakes leading to overpayments by improving its communications.
The research, Experiences of claiming and receiving carer’s allowance, explores how and why people claim carer's allowance; their caring roles; experiences of combining paid work and care; and how well claimants understand the rules associated with the benefit. While carried out in 2020/2021, the research has been published today against a backdrop of calls for the wholescale reform of carer's allowance as a result of evidence that claimants who have earned above the carer's allowance earnings limit have been left with large overpayments and, in some cases, prosecuted for fraud.
While the research found that many claimants in employment felt there was a practical limit to the hours they could work, with many saying it was only feasible to be working part-time due to their caring responsibilities, it also found that -
- the earnings threshold appeared to influence decisions about how many hours some people worked. Even though claimants often denied that the threshold influenced their choices, they acknowledged being mindful to stay below the threshold. One claimant felt he had to refuse shifts at work that would take him over the threshold;
- in another example, the earnings limit led a claimant to reduce her hours as her wages increased, and eventually she was working so few hours that her employer felt it was not worth employing her due to her limited availability; and
- some claimants in paid work felt they might work more hours if not for the earnings threshold, and even suggested tapering the carer’s allowance earnings rule to encourage claimants to work more.
In addition, with the Chair of the Select Committee Stephen Timms having said recently that the DWP has done nothing to stop carers building up huge overpayments despite knowing what people are earning, and the Committee having called on the National Audit Office to investigate the problems with the system, the research found that -
- poor communication on the part of the DWP meant that not all of those that had been overpaid benefit were clear on the reason for the overpayment;
- some said that while they were initially notified or questioned about an overpayment there was then no follow-up from the Department; and
- when the overpayment was initially raised, several claimants felt that they were spoken to or treated by DWP as though they had intentionally committed fraud when the overpayment had been a misunderstanding.
'... there is room to improve claimant understanding and possibly reduce mistakes leading to overpayments by improving communications around eligibility criteria. Since claimants did not engage with the detail of their benefit regularly, possibly only considering it once a year when they received their annual letter, more frequent communications may improve clarity of knowledge around carer’s allowance.'Other key findings include that -
- most claimants cared for close relatives, with two in five caring for a child (39 per cent), a quarter caring for a spouse or partner (25 per cent), and one in five (22 per cent) caring for a parent;
- caring was a long-term and high-intensity commitment, with half of claimants (52 per cent) spending 65 or more hours caring per week and more than half (54 per cent) caring for between 5 and 20 years;
- only 16 per cent of carer's allowance claimants were currently in paid work, tending to work part- time in lower paid jobs that they were able to fit around their caring responsibilities, with most (81 per cent) working 20 hours or less a week;
- of those not currently in paid work, seven in ten (69 per cent) said this was due to their responsibilities as a carer, with other barriers including a lack of flexible working options, claimants’ own health and confidence issues; and
- there was a lag between starting caring and claiming carer's allowance, with seven in ten claimants (70 per cent) caring for 5+ years, but only 3 in 10 (34 per cent) having claimed carer's allowance for that length of time.
Almost 135,000 people currently have an outstanding carer's allowance debt, with more than £250 million owed in total, according to figures supplied by DWP Minister Paul Maynard
DWP Minister also confirms that women represent 68 per cent of those with an outstanding debt.
Responding to a written question in Parliament from Work and Pensions Committee Chair Stephen Timms, Mr Maynard said -
'As of 14 May 2024, the volume of people who have an outstanding carers allowance debt is 134,800 with a total value of £251 million. This figure represents the total stock and as such the total monetary amount may have been accrued over multiple years. Those who have an outstanding carers allowance debt may no longer be in receipt of the benefit.'Mr Maynard added that -
'Women make up the majority of carer’s allowance claims, and this is reflected in the proportion of those with an outstanding carer’s allowance debt. As of 14 May 2024, there were 42,800 (32 per cent) males, 91,900 (68 per cent) females and 100 (less than 1 per cent) not identified, with an outstanding carer's allowance debt.'The Minister also confirmed that, as of November 2023, there were more than 991,000 people in receipt of carer's allowance, consisting of around 271,000 (27 per cent) males and 720,000 (73 per cent) females.
Mr Maynard's written answer is available from parliament.uk
Total value of benefit overpayments in 2023/2024 increased to almost £10 billion, representing 3.7 per cent of benefit expenditure for the year
New DWP figures also show that official error underpayments remained at around £1 billion, and that people could have claimed more than £3 billion more 'if they had provided accurate information about their circumstances'.
In Fraud and error in the benefit system: financial year 2023 to 2024 estimates, the DWP calculates how much money it overpaid or underpaid as a percentage of total benefit expenditure for the year (£266.2bn) - for benefits including universal credit, housing benefit, personal independence payment, employment and support allowance and pension credit - and how many claims were paid an incorrect amount.
Note: the statistics no longer include estimates of claimant error underpayments as these are now published separately, as confirmed in recent DWP guidance.
In relation to incorrect payment rates across all benefits for the financial year ending (FYE) 2024, the figures show that the total rate of benefit expenditure overpaid was 3.7 per cent (£9.7bn), compared with 3.6 per cent (£8.3bn) in 2022/2023. In addition, the total rate of benefit expenditure underpaid was 0.4 per cent (£1.1bn), compared with 0.5 per cent (£1.2bn) in FYE 2023.
Looking in more detail at the figures for individual benefits, the statistics include data showing that -
- for universal credit, expenditure increased to £51.9bn in 2024 with an overpayment rate of 12.4 per cent (£6.5bn) and underpayment rate of 0.3 per cent (£180m), compared to expenditure of £43.4 bn, overpayments at 12.7 per cent (£5.5bn) and underpayments at 0.6 per cent (£240m) in FYE 2023;
- for personal independence payment (PIP), the overpayment rate was at the lowest recorded level of 0.4 per cent (£90m), compared with 1.1 per cent (£200m) in FYE 2023. However, the underpayment rate went up to 0.4 per cent (£80m), from 0.3 per cent (£60m) the previous year;
- for pension credit, the overpayment rate was 9.7 per cent (£520m) in FYE 2024, compared with 6.8 per cent (£330m) in the previous year, with underpayments remaining unchanged at 0.3 per cent (£50m) for both years; and
- for housing benefit, almost £1bn (£980m) was overpaid in FYE 2024 (6.3 per cent of expenditure), compared with £860m (5.7 per cent) in 2023. Underpayments remained stable at 0.4 per cent of spending (£50m in FYE 2024 and £60m in FYE 2023).
- the unfulfilled eligibility rate for 2024 is 1.2 per cent of expenditure (£3.1bn), compared with 1.0 per cent (£2.3bn) in the previous year; and
- universal credit, PIP and disability living allowance (DLA) account for around three-quarters of the total value of unfulfilled eligibility (at £730m, £870m and £750m respectively in FYE 2024).
'PIP has the second highest unfulfilled eligibility rate [4 per cent] of all benefits and fairly high expenditure [£21.6bn], so due to this combination, PIP accounts for around one-quarter of total unfulfilled eligibility in FYE 2024. DLA has the highest unfulfilled eligibility rate [11.1 per cent] but relatively low expenditure [£6.8m], so even though its rate is higher than PIP, it accounts for a similar amount of total unfulfilled eligibility in FYE 2024. Universal credit has a lower unfulfilled eligibility rate than DLA and PIP [1.4 per cent] but its high expenditure means that it also accounts for a similar amount of total unfulfilled eligibility in FYE 2024.'For more information, see Fraud and error in the benefit system: financial year 2023 to 2024 estimates and Unfulfilled eligibility in the benefit system: financial year 2023 to 2024 estimates from gov.uk
Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride has set out the DWP's plans to scale up its 'fight against fraudsters'
New measures include using machine learning to detect and prevent fraudulent claims, as well as introducing a new Bill to enable benefit fraud to be treated like tax fraud.
Issuing a written statement in the House of Commons on 13th May, Mr Stride said -
'In the continued fight against fraud, today the Government will publish a new paper setting out the progress we have made in tackling fraud and error in the welfare system - Fighting Fraud in the Welfare System: Going Further. The paper sets out the progress we have made in delivering the commitments in the Government's 2022 command paper Fighting Fraud in the Welfare System and it demonstrates where we are going further to protect taxpayers’ money from fraudsters.'Highlighting that the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill, currently before Parliament, will enable the Department to work with third parties such as banks to identify claims that signal potential fraud and error, Mr Stride says that the new measures being introduced include -
- bringing forward a new Fraud Bill in the next parliament to treat benefit fraud like tax fraud, by providing for the ability to make arrests and conduct searches and seizures by warrant;
- exploring a new civil penalty to punish fraudsters, potentially broadening the scope of cases that can receive a penalty when the courts are not prosecuting, and increasing the value of the civil penalty;
- tripling the size of the Targeted Case Review programme to reach almost 6,000 staff with the aim of saving £6.6 billion by 2027/2028; and
- making changes to universal credit including new partly automated checks on self-employed income, new online prompts for claimants to re-declare their circumstances (such as if they have moved in with a partner), and increasing checks on capital when people claim the benefit to ensure they are eligible.
For more information, see DWP updates Fraud Plan from gov.uk
In response to the above article the Disability News Service reported that the government's fraud policy paper ignores coroner’s concerns over review of disabled woman’s universal credit claim. Read the DNS article on disabilitynewsservice.com
Less than half of legacy benefit claimants who were sent a migration notice between July 2022 and March 2024 have made a claim for universal credit, according to new figures from the DWP
However, new DWP statistics also show that 60 per cent of households that claimed universal credit have been awarded transitional protection.
In Completing the move to Universal Credit: statistics related to the move of households claiming Tax Credits and DWP benefits to Universal Credit: data to end of March 2024, the DWP sets out figures for the period since July 2022, noting that -
'In the period covered by this bulletin, the vast majority of migration notices have been sent to tax credit households whose likelihood of claiming universal credit and receiving transitional protection may be different from DWP legacy benefit claimants, the majority of whom had not yet been sent a migration notice in the period covered in this bulletin.'The statistics include that -
- a total of 824,050 individuals (in 540,070 households) were sent migration notices up to March 2024 - up by around 300,000 and 200,000 respectively compared to the totals for December 2023;
- a total of 400,940 individuals (49 per cent of those sent migration notices), living in 275,980 households, have made a claim for universal credit;
- of households that have claimed universal credit, 166,860 (60 per cent) have been awarded transitional protection;
- a total of 238,990 individuals who were sent migration notices are still going through the managed migration process; and
- a total of 184,120 individuals who were sent migration notices have had their legacy benefit claims closed.
Note: the DWP has also published Universal Credit statistics, 29 April 2013 to 11 April 2024 which show that there were 6.7 million people on universal credit in April 2024 (300,000 more than the 6.4 million in January 2024) and that half of households on universal credit that received a payment in February 2024 included children.
Department for Communities also confirms that claimants in receipt of other legacy benefits will be issued with migration notices 'in the coming months'
The Department for Communities (DfC) has confirmed that the 'Move to UC' rollout in Northern Ireland has expanded this week to include people receiving tax credits along with housing benefit.
Announcing the expansion of the process, Deputy Secretary of Work and Health at the DfC Paddy Rooney said -
'We continue to take a measured and carefully managed approach to migrating legacy benefit recipients to universal credit. We have already successfully completed issuing migration notices to tax credit only recipients and we will continue to take every step possible to ensure that everyone receives the help and support they need during this next phase of Move to UC.'The Department also confirmed that once it has issued migration notices to all those receiving tax credits with housing benefit, the following groups will be contacted in this order -
- people claiming income support;
- people claiming housing benefit only, and those claiming child tax credit with income-related employment and support allowance (ESA); and
- people claiming income-based jobseeker's allowance.
For more information, see Tax credit with housing benefit recipients next to 'Move to UC' and Rollout of Universal Credit for Tax Credit and Legacy Benefit customers - screening from ni.gov.uk
57,000 adverse universal credit sanction decisions were made in January 2024, according to new DWP statistics
DWP statistics also highlight that around 95 per cent of decisions are as a result of failure to attend or participate in a mandatory interview.
In Benefit sanctions statistics to February 2024, the DWP reports on both the rate and duration of sanctions for universal credit claimants who are in conditionality regimes where they be applied.
Key findings include that -
- in February 2024, 30.1 per cent of claimants were in conditionality regimes that were subject to sanctions and, of these, 6.52 per cent were sanctioned - down 0.64 percentage points from the previous quarter;
- over the last year, 94.9 per cent of adverse sanction decisions were for failure to attend or participate in a mandatory interview; and
- in February 2024, there were 20,000 completed sanctions in the 4 weeks to 13 weeks sanction duration band, 4,800 in the over 13 weeks to 26 weeks duration band, and 4,000 of over 26 weeks duration.
The DWP notes that -
'Comparisons with universal credit prior to February 2024 ... should not be made. This is because the data sources, methodology and rules of the benefits differ from those used for universal credit currently.'However, it adds that, following the reinstated duration measures and rate methodology improvements, the data is now determined stable and fit for purpose and, as of May 2024, it is published under the 'Official Statistics' label as opposed to 'in development'.
For more information, see Benefit sanctions statistics to February 2024 from gov.uk
DWP has admitted missing multiple opportunities to record the 'vulnerability' of a disabled woman whose death was later linked by a coroner to failings at the heart of its UC system
The Disability News Service reported on the case of Nazerine (known as Naz) Anderson, from Melton Mowbray, who died of an overdose in June last year, after receiving a UC review notice.
According to a prevention of future deaths (PFD) report sent to the department by coroner Fiona Butler, the DWP missed six opportunities to record Anderson’s “vulnerability” on its IT system while it was reviewing her universal credit claim, and had failed to act on the mental distress she showed in phone calls about her claim. It also repeatedly failed to act on requests to direct its telephone calls and letters to her daughter.
The DWP admits multiple universal credit failures before disabled woman’s death article is available on disabilitynewsservice.com
Number of emergency food parcels distributed across the UK by the Trussell Trust has increased by 90 per cent over the past five years
Food charity reports that it distributed more than three million parcels last year, with more than a million of them going to children.
In Emergency food parcel distribution in the UK: April 2023 - March 2024, the Trust says that it distributed 3,121,404 food parcels, the most parcels that it has ever distributed in a financial year, representing a four per cent increase on last year's record-breaking numbers for 2022/2023 and a 94 per cent increase since 2018/2019.
The charity also highlights that the number of parcels provided to children has continued to rise, exceeding 1.1 million in 2023/2024, and that food bank support is provided disproportionately to children, compared to the proportion of children in the UK population. In addition, it notes that pension age households are increasingly likely to need to use a food bank, with food bank support for these households having more than quadrupled between 2018/2019 and 2023/2024 (an increase of 345 per cent), compared to an 81 per cent rise amongst households without someone of pension age.
Also sharing statistics on the reason for referral for an emergency food parcel - which include health, benefit issues, work hour changes, insecure housing, changes in personal circumstances, immigration status and domestic abuse, as well as income and debt levels - the Trussell Trust says -
'Across all households the most common reason for referral was due to issues with income and debt levels. The vital role of the social security system in driving these trends is clear from the fact that the majority (78 per cent) of people referred to food banks were reported to solely have income from the social security system, with a further 8 per cent having earned income as well as income from social security.'Trussell Trust Chief Executive Emma Revie said -
'It’s 2024 and we’re facing historically high levels of food bank need. As a society, we cannot allow this to continue. We must not let food banks become the new norm ... A supportive social security system is the bedrock on which we end hunger for good. Building on this, we need much more effective employment and financial support for parents, carers and disabled people, and action to ensure everyone can have the security we all need to access opportunities and have hope for the future, through more secure and flexible jobs and investment in social housing. Food banks are not the answer. They will be there to support people as long as they are needed, but our political leaders must take bold action to build a future where everyone has enough money to afford the life’s essentials. The time to act is now.'For more information, see End of Year Stats from trusselltrust.org
Employment Minister Jo Churchill has provided a House of Lords Select Committee with an undertaking that the administrative earnings threshold (AET) in universal credit will not be increased again without a 'sound evidence base'
However, Minister's evidence to Lords Committee fails to address its dissatisfaction with DWP's explanation for not publishing robust evidence to support previous increases in the threshold.
Further to the Lords Secondary Legislation Scrutiny Committee's report on new regulations that implemented a further increase in the AET from 13 May 2024 - that criticised the ‘inexplicable’ lack of data evaluating previous increases in the threshold in September 2022 and January 2023 - the Committee held a one-off evidence session yesterday to question the Minister and DWP officials.
Introducing the session, Committee Chair Lord Hunt acknowledged that the DWP had agreed to share its informal findings supporting its AET policy. However Lord Hunt added that -
'... similar, no doubt to the material that the Social Security Advisory Committee saw but correctly declined, if information is not available to the House and the public, then we feel unable to consider it either.'The Committee then questioned the Minister about the Department's failure to publish evidence providing an assessment of the impact of increasing the AET either before or after implementing the change.
In response, Ms Churchill highlighted that the Department did publish a randomised controlled trial evaluation in 2018 providing the highest level of evidence on the impacts of increased in-work conditionality that Ministers have had sight of. When challenged that this evidence is somewhat outdated and 'a bit threadbare' - as it has been relied on for three increases in the AET - Ms Churchill indicated that Ministers also had early sight of unpublished research (a Regression Discontinuity Design (RDD) study) that compares the experiences of claimants who are just below and just above the AET.
When pressed on the expected publication dates for this and further evidence, Mr Churchill said -
'I have asked for [the RDD study] to be available as soon as it can be, and the date I was given was spring 2024 ... I would like it out the door as soon as possible, so you have more data ... RDD is the next piece, the next building block and then, the longitudinal study will come through in 2025.'Concluding the session with a final question, Lord Hunt, speaking on behalf of the whole Committee, said -
'... we're looking for an undertaking from you, not to further expand the cohort until the Department can publish robust evidence of its effects. Are you able to give us that undertaking?Ms Churchill responded -
'So are you alluding to us holding 15 hours or with this latest laying at 18? Because I could certainly say to you, I think with all confidence that at 18, we want to understand the iterations and make sure that we've got a sound evidence base from there.'NB - the increase in the AET in January 2023 was based, for individuals, on the equivalent of them working 15 hours per week at the National Living Wage, and this week's increase to the equivalent of them working 18 hours per week.
Despite welcoming the Minister's reply, Lord Hunt went on to say -
'... we accept your undertaking, except we are still as dissatisfied as we were because you haven't provided, in the view of the Committee, sufficient explanation yet. We are awaiting this robust evidence, which I think that we now expect in June 2024.'The evidence session Regulations to increase the Administrative Earnings Threshold (Legislative scrutiny) is available from parliament.tv
Work and Pensions Select Committee has called on the government to bring forward proposals to compensate women born in the 1950s who suffered as a result of the DWP's communication failures when their pension age was increased, and asks that it does so in the current parliamentary session
Committee chair highlights lengthy delay and urgency for affected women and calls on government to act on Parliamentary Ombudsman recommendations before summer recess.
Writing to Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Mel Stride, Committee Chair Stephen Timms requests government support for 'urgent action' following the Parliamentary Ombudsman's final report in March 2024 which recommended a remedy based on level 4 of its severity of injustice scale, putting awards at between £1,000 and £2,950.
Mr Timms says that the Committee does not seek to question the Ombudsman's proposal for compensation at level 4, but instead has focused on what a remedy may look like -
'The evidence we received indicated support for a rules-based system. This would be a system where payments would be adjusted within a range (based on the PHSO’s severity of injustice scale) to reflect the extent of change in the individual’s State Pension age and the notice of the change which the individual received. This would mean that the less notice you had of the change and the bigger the change in your SPA, the higher the payment you would receive. While not perfect, the advantages of such a system are that it would be: quick to administer; applying known data to a formula to determine the amount due; and relatively inexpensive (compared to a more bespoke system).'The Committee's recommendation also includes some flexibility for individuals to make the case for further compensation in the event that they have experienced direct financial loss, for example where a woman whose divorce settlement was less than it would have been because it was based on the expectation that she would receive her state pension at 60.
Mr Timms also asks the government to consider -
'... the need for urgent action, given that the Ombudsman started to look at this issue in 2018 and that every 13 minutes a woman born in the 1950s dies ... Implementing a remedy will need parliamentary time, financial resources, and the data and technical systems only available to your department. It cannot happen without government support. We would ask you to bring forward proposals for a remedy by the summer recess.'Mr Timms' letter to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions is available from parliament.uk
2024.05.19 08:50 Ok_Jelly_3340 Knoxville Needs Change: Higher Wages and Affordable Housing Now
Facts:
- 30 states have a higher minimum wage than Tennessee's $7.25.
- Tennessee last raised its minimum wage in 2009.
- Since then, inflation has risen by about 36.6%.
- A decent living wage for a single adult in Tennessee is about $13.25 per hour.
Rising Rents in Knoxville
- Rapid Rent Increases: In 2022, rent growth in Knoxville was 9.6%, significantly higher than the national average of 2.3%. This trend has continued, with apartment rents increasing by around 6.06% in 2023 compared to the previous year.
- Forecasted Increases: The trend of rising rents is expected to continue, with forecasts indicating an additional 5% increase over the next year.
- High Occupancy Rates: Despite these rent increases, Knoxville's rental market remains highly competitive with occupancy rates around 96.3%, which is higher than the national average of 94.7%.
Recent Home Price Increases in Knoxville
- Median Home Price: The median home sales price in Knoxville rose to $350,000 in July 2023, representing an increase of around 7.9% compared to the previous year.
- Affordability: As of November 2023, the median home sales price was $346,000, up by about 10.8% from the previous year.
- Income Requirements: The income required to qualify for a mortgage on a median-priced home has risen dramatically, from around $59,000 at the start of 2022 to over $110,000 by August 2023.
- Housing Inventory: Despite the rising prices, the total number of homes available in Knoxville is still around half of pre-pandemic levels, contributing to the increased competition and higher prices.
Steps to Raise the Minimum Wage
Step 1: Organize a Petition Drive- Form a Nonpartisan Group: Create or join a group focused solely on raising the minimum wage, without political affiliations. Use platforms like Zoom for virtual meetings, schedule regular meetings, and use social media and local forums to recruit members.
- Research Requirements: For statewide initiatives, the number of signatures required is typically a percentage of the votes cast in the last gubernatorial election. Confirm the exact number with the Tennessee Secretary of State's office. For local initiatives in Knoxville, a charter amendment can be proposed if at least one registered voter files the petition with the county election commission for pre-approval (TCA 2-5-151).
- Tennessee Secretary of State: (615) 741-2819
- Create the Petition: Draft a clear and concise petition for a minimum wage increase. Here is a sample:
Petition for Increasing the Minimum Wage in Tennessee
To the Tennessee General Assembly:
We, the undersigned residents of Tennessee, believe that the current minimum wage of $7.25 per hour is insufficient to meet the basic needs of individuals and families in our state. Given the significant rise in living costs and inflation since the last adjustment in 2009, we urgently call for an increase in the state minimum wage to a livable wage of $13.25 per hour. This adjustment will ensure that all working Tennesseans can afford necessities such as housing, food, healthcare, and transportation.
By signing this petition, we express our support for this necessary change and urge the Tennessee General Assembly to take immediate action.
Name Address Signature
Step 2: Collect Signatures
- Host Community Events: Organize events like town hall meetings, local fairs, or farmers' markets to gather signatures.
- Utilize Local Networks: Leverage small-town connections where everyone knows each other to spread the word and gather support.
- Set Up Booths: Place booths in high-traffic areas like grocery stores, libraries, and community centers to collect signatures.
- Door-to-Door Campaigning: Go door-to-door in your neighborhood to ask for signatures.
- Social Media Campaign: Use platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to inform the community and encourage them to sign the petition.
- Local Media: Reach out to local newspapers, radio stations, and TV channels to cover your campaign.
- Flyers and Posters: Distribute flyers and put up posters in local businesses and public spaces.
- Verify Signatures: Ensure all collected signatures meet the requirements.
- Submit to Authorities: Submit the petition to the appropriate state or local authority for validation.
Deadlines and Requirements
- Submission Deadline: Typically, signatures must be submitted several months before the general election to allow time for verification. For 2024, check with the Tennessee Secretary of State for specific deadlines and the number of required signatures.
How Petitions Work
In general, for a petition to be effective and get an issue on the ballot or to influence local government action, more signatures are usually needed to demonstrate widespread community support. Here’s a brief overview of the process:- Single Signature Submission: In some cases, a single well-documented request or petition signed by one person can be submitted to local officials to initiate a discussion. However, this method is less likely to compel action without demonstrating broader community support.
- Gathering Multiple Signatures: To increase the chances of the petition being taken seriously, gathering multiple signatures shows that the issue has significant support within the community. This can influence local officials to take action.
- Specific Requirements: The exact number of signatures required can vary based on local laws and regulations. For example, getting an initiative on the ballot often requires a specific percentage of registered voters' signatures.
- Submitting a Petition to the City Council: One person can submit a petition to the city council to raise an issue. However, gathering more signatures from residents increases the impact.
- Ballot Initiatives: For ballot initiatives, there are usually legal requirements regarding the number of signatures needed. This varies by jurisdiction.
Strategies to Address Rising Rents
While controlling rent increases directly can be challenging, there are several strategies that can help stabilize the rental market and provide more affordable options:- Rent Control and Stabilization:
- Implement policies that limit how much rents can be increased annually.
- Increased Tenant Protections:
- Strengthen tenant rights to provide more security and stability, such as "just cause" eviction protections.
- Affordable Housing Development:
- Increase the supply of affordable housing through new developments and mixed-income housing projects.
- Tax Incentives for Landlords:
- Offer tax breaks or incentives to landlords who keep rents affordable.
- Community Land Trusts:
- Establish community land trusts to manage and develop affordable housing.
- Rent Subsidy Programs:
- Expand rent subsidy programs to assist low-income tenants.
Petition Example for Rent Control and Tenant Protections
Petition for Rent Control and Tenant ProtectionsTo the Knoxville City Council:
We, the undersigned, request that the Knoxville City Council take immediate action to address the rising cost of rent and protect tenants by implementing rent control measures and strengthening tenant protections. Specifically, we propose the following initiatives:
- Rent Control: Implement rent control measures that limit annual rent increases to no more than a set percentage, tied to inflation.
- Just Cause Eviction Protections: Establish "just cause" eviction protections to prevent arbitrary evictions and provide stability for tenants.
- Tax Incentives for Affordable Rent: Offer tax breaks or incentives to landlords who commit to keeping rents affordable.
- Encourage Long-Term Leases: Promote the use of long-term leases with fixed rent increases to provide stability for both tenants and landlords.
By signing this petition, we express our support for these initiatives and urge the Knoxville City Council to take immediate action to protect tenants and address the rising cost of rent.
Signature: _______________
Print Name: _______________
Address: _______________
Email: _______________
Other Strategies to Help Afford Homes
Local Level:- Affordable Housing Programs: Support and expand local programs that provide affordable housing options.
- Down Payment Assistance: Advocate for city or county programs that help with down payments for first-time homebuyers.
- Community Land Trusts: Promote local models where the community owns the land and leases it to homeowners, reducing the cost of purchasing a home.
- Zoning Reforms: Push for zoning changes within Knoxville to allow for more diverse and affordable housing developments.
- Financial Education: Provide resources locally to help individuals better manage their finances and improve their credit scores.
- Rent-to-Own Programs: Implement or support local programs where tenants can rent properties with the option to buy after a certain period.
- Increased Housing Supply: Encourage the construction of more housing units in Knoxville to meet demand.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Foster collaborations between the city and private developers to create affordable housing projects.
- Inclusionary Zoning: Require a portion of new developments in Knoxville to include affordable housing units.
- Tax Incentives: Offer local tax credits or abatements to developers who build affordable housing or to homeowners for property improvements.
- Tiny Homes and ADUs: Promote the development of tiny homes and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in Knoxville as affordable housing options.
- Housing Cooperatives: Support cooperative housing models locally where residents collectively own and manage their housing.
- Employer-Assisted Housing: Encourage local employers to provide housing assistance or benefits to their employees.
- Energy Efficiency Programs: Implement local programs to improve the energy efficiency of homes, reducing utility costs and overall housing expenses.
- Foreclosure Prevention Programs: Provide local assistance and counseling to homeowners at risk of foreclosure to help them retain their homes.
- Land Banks: Establish land banks at the city level to acquire, manage, and repurpose vacant and foreclosed properties for affordable housing development.
- Petition for Ballot Initiatives: Registered voters can start petitions to get these issues on local ballots. This involves gathering a required number of signatures from the community.
- Engage with Local Officials: Attend city council meetings, contact local representatives, and advocate for these programs and reforms.
- Form or Join Advocacy Groups: Collaborate with local organizations focused on housing and community development to amplify your efforts.
- Raise Public Awareness: Use social media, local news, and community events to inform and mobilize residents around these initiatives.
- Vote: Encourage community members to vote for local leaders and initiatives that support affordable housing and related programs.
Example Petitions:
Petition for Comprehensive Affordable Housing InitiativesTo the Knoxville City Council:
We, the undersigned, request that the Knoxville City Council take comprehensive action to promote affordable housing through a combination of tax incentives, public-private partnerships, inclusionary zoning, expanded affordable housing programs, and the establishment of land banks.
- Tax Incentives: Offer local tax credits or abatements to developers who build affordable housing or to homeowners for property improvements. These incentives will encourage the development and maintenance of affordable housing units, ensuring more options are available for low- and moderate-income families.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Foster collaborations between the city and private developers to create affordable housing projects. By working together, the public and private sectors can pool resources, expertise, and funding to develop housing that meets the community's needs.
- Inclusionary Zoning: Require a portion of new developments in Knoxville to include affordable housing units. Inclusionary zoning ensures that affordable housing is integrated into new developments, promoting economic diversity and increasing the availability of affordable homes.
- Affordable Housing Programs: Support and expand local affordable housing programs to provide quality, affordable housing options for low- and moderate-income residents. Currently, many residents are struggling to find affordable housing, which impacts their quality of life and financial stability. By expanding these programs, we can ensure that more residents have access to safe, decent, and affordable housing.
- Land Banks: Establish land banks at the city level to acquire, manage, and repurpose vacant and foreclosed properties for affordable housing development. Land banks can transform unused or abandoned properties into valuable assets for the community, providing opportunities for affordable housing development and revitalizing neighborhoods.
By signing this petition, we express our support for these initiatives and urge the Knoxville City Council to take immediate action to promote affordable housing through these measures.
Signature: _______________
Print Name: _______________
Address: _______________
Email: _______________
Down Payment Assistance
Petition for Down Payment Assistance Programs
To the Knoxville City Council:
We, the undersigned, urge the Knoxville City Council to advocate for and establish city or county programs that provide down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers. Many residents find it challenging to save enough for a down payment, which is a significant barrier to achieving homeownership. By providing down payment assistance, we can help more residents transition from renting to owning their homes, promoting long-term financial stability and investment in our community.
By signing this petition, we express our support for the creation and implementation of down payment assistance programs to help first-time homebuyers in Knoxville.
Signature: _______________
Print Name: _______________
Address: _______________
Email: _______________
State or Federal Level:
- Subsidized Housing Vouchers: Increase the availability and funding for housing vouchers that subsidize rent for low-income families.
- Mortgage Credit Certificates (MCC): Promote MCC programs that provide tax credits to first-time homebuyers at the state or federal level.
How New Jersey Did It:
- Legislative Action: Passed in 2019, the law set a schedule for gradual increases to reach $15 by 2024.
- Annual Adjustments: Provisions for annual increases based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
- Broad Support: Significant political backing from the governor and legislature.
- Sector-Specific Plans: Different timelines and rates for small businesses, seasonal workers, and agricultural employees.
- Economic Advocacy: Studies and advocacy highlighted the benefits, helping to build public and political support.
Tennessee's Business Environment and Minimum Wage:
- Business-Friendly State: It's true Tennessee is known for being business-friendly, which can make raising the minimum wage challenging.
- Jobs Over $12/Hour: While many jobs may pay over $12 an hour, not all workers have access to these opportunities, especially those with limited skills or education.
Steps to Take:
- Educate and Advocate: Inform the community about the benefits of a higher minimum wage for both workers and the economy.
- Highlight Success Stories: Share examples from other states like New Jersey that have successfully raised their minimum wages without harming businesses.
- Promote Nonpartisan Support: Work with groups that focus on worker rights without political affiliations to gather broader support.
2024.05.19 08:45 GhoulGriin Best Car Wash Cannons
 | submitted by GhoulGriin to u/GhoulGriin [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/ujf931rfxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=861903c2527ffc86dae7c3ee4d70e9d9cb7971c3 Get ready to impress with the ultimate car washing companion - the Car Wash Cannons! In this roundup, we'll explore the best gear on the market that'll make your car shine like new. Say goodbye to dirty windows and spots on your vehicle with these top-rated products. So buckle up your car detailing apron, and let's dive in! The Top 19 Best Car Wash Cannons
Reviews🔗Heavy Duty Foam Cannon for Motorcycle & Car Washinghttps://preview.redd.it/qe9gzk7gxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3de9f922dfbb141bcd1e7f303765c4608a5b6e2b Last year, I got myself the FGDCHNJ Pressure Washer Foam Cannon for my daily car washing routine. I have the foam wash gun mounted on my pressure washer, and it has been a game changer for my cleaning game. The heavy-duty brass material of the foam cannon makes it sturdy and long-lasting, perfect for both residential and commercial usage. It's been months since I got it, and it still works like brand new! I'm surprised how versatile this foam cannon is. One thing I love about this foam cannon is the adjustable foam thickness level and spray angles. It's super easy to use, and I can switch it up to match my washing needs effortlessly. The wide-mouth bottle design also ensures that I'm using the foam efficiently without causing any cracks, which is fantastic. I have the foam cannon on a 2-5.3 GPM pressure washer that works with a 1/4 inch connector, and it's compatible with pressure washer connectors ranging from 725-4,000 PSI operating pressure. It can handle up to 60°C/140°F max temp. While I've had a great experience with it, there's one small con. The foam cannon is made in China, so some users experienced issues with receiving counterfeit products. But, the good news is that it has a free replacement policy if you face any defects. Overall, I'm satisfied with my purchase and highly recommend it for anyone looking for a durable and efficient car wash foam cannon. 🔗Maximum Foam Output 3D Ultra Blast Foam Car Wash Cannonhttps://preview.redd.it/n0qeiqlgxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f76cc48491a9c068ae4a6af8a50411bdfdb45c34 Have you ever wished there was a better way to clean your car? 3D's Ultra Blast Foamer Car Wash Foam Cannon does just that with its shaving cream-like foam coverage and adjustable spray nozzle. This foam cannon is a game changer, turning car washing into a fun and efficient experience. The 1 liter soap reservoir holds plenty of solution to cover even the largest vehicles with a luxurious, creamy foam. Using this foam cannon has been a game-changer for my detailing business. With just one fill-up, I can complete 6 or more vehicles, including cars and SUVs. The thick plastic bottle and robust foam blaster nozzle, made of sturdy plastic and metal, add great longevity to this little piece of equipment. The foam cannon not only makes washing a breeze, but it also lubricates the finish better, making washing safer. Using the Ultra Blast Foamer Car Wash Foam Cannon will leave you with flawless car images to share on your social media platforms – a true testament to its effectiveness. Give this amazing foam cannon a try and revolutionize the way you clean your car! 🔗Premium Foam Cannon for Detailing Truckshttps://preview.redd.it/pnwda4vgxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=548636012b9cc8511f0c3d5ca873751b8bcbedc5 I've had the chance to use TriNova's Foam Cannon and Gallon Car Wash Soap Kit, and I must say, it's been quite the experience. Whenever my car is in desperate need of a deep cleaning, I rely on this set to help me out. The foam cannon is a game-changer, and its compatibility with standard pressure washer quick connect attachments makes it easily accessible to anyone. Adjusting the nozzle for narrow or wide steam and using the air intake knob to create more or less foam ensures that my ride gets the attention it deserves. One of the features that stood out to me was the option to use a narrow or wide steam. This allowed me to target specific areas of my car that needed extra attention, like under the wheel wells and engine bay. I also appreciated the ease of use with its attachments being easy to connect to my pressure washer wand. However, the price tag can be a bit steep for some users. I've noticed that the plastic bottle isn't the most durable, so I would proceed with caution while handling it to prevent any damages. All in all, TriNova's Foam Cannon and Gallon Car Wash Soap Kit have proved to be a valuable addition to my car care routine. Its performance and convenience have made washing my car a breeze, and I highly recommend it to anyone in need of a top-notch car wash set. 🔗Total Wash Street Foam Cannon Bundlehttps://preview.redd.it/wa36vyahxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e81d74a58e38de0d504e7ccb8eca5d7549be39a9 I recently tried the First Purchase Total Wash Street Foam Cannon Kit, and I must say, it's been quite the game-changer for my car washing routine. This kit offers not just a single cannon but also an additional cartridge, a HydraCoat Quick Detailer, and a Total Wash Heavy Duty ($65 value) for free. One of the standout features I noticed is how fast and convenient this kit is, especially when it comes to covering large surface areas in a short amount of time. It's perfect for those of us who are constantly on the go and don't have the luxury to spend hours washing our cars. The Total Wash Street offers an impressive thick lather that is safe on all surfaces and finishes. With just one cartridge, it makes over 5 gallons of highly effective wash, which is incredibly cost-effective in the long run. While I appreciated the added value of the free products and the convenience of the Total Wash Street Foam Cannon Kit, there were some minor drawbacks. For one, I found that the spray pattern wasn't as even as I'd hoped, requiring a bit more effort to ensure the car was completely covered. Overall, however, I'm quite satisfied with my experience using the First Purchase Total Wash Street Foam Cannon Kit, and I look forward to continuing to use it for my car washing needs. Despite the minor drawbacks, the kit's versatility, cost-effectiveness, and time-saving capabilities make it a worthwhile investment for any busy car owner. 🔗Ultimate Touchless Wash Bundle for Effortless Vehicle Cleaninghttps://preview.redd.it/06tb62mhxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9b6db58872d35283e33663612ab43c6ebc2223d5 I recently had the pleasure of trying out the Touchless Foam Cannon Kit, and let me tell you, it's a game-changer for car enthusiasts. The kit includes everything you need to make your car washing experience a breeze. The first thing that really impressed me was the quality of the foam. It's so rich and thick, it practically clings to the car, ensuring every inch is covered. The concentrated foam soap not only removes stubborn stains but also leaves my car with a stunning shine. Now, let's talk about the pressure washer foam cannons. They're a real treat! With the option of choosing between a max PSI of 3,000 and 5,000, you can tailor your wash to your vehicle's needs. The cannons make the washing process effortless and mess-free. However, as with any product, there were a couple of minor drawbacks. I found the instructions a bit vague, which made getting the hang of it a bit tricky at first. But once I figured it out, it was smooth sailing. All in all, I'm incredibly satisfied with this Touchless Foam Cannon Kit. It's easy to use, highly effective, and a must-have for anyone who values their car's appearance. I'd highly recommend it to anyone looking to make their car washing routine stress-free and efficient. 🔗High-Pressure Car Wash Cannons for Effortless Foam Applicationhttps://preview.redd.it/dfpa1u3ixb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0585b3e0826e674aa5e106c4f5a8391ca10d0289 As someone who enjoys keeping my car clean and shiny, I recently gave the GDHXW X-887 High Pressure Washer Gun a try. This little gadget packs a punch, with a 3000 PSI rating that left my car looking brand new. The foam lance, with a 1/4" quick connector fitting, made the washing process a breeze, as I simply had to fill it with warm water and a bit of soap. One nifty feature of this pressure washer gun is the adjustable spray nozzle, which allowed me to find the perfect stream of water for my needs. With 7 different spray angles, I could easily switch between watering my plants, washing my car, and even cleaning my driveway with ease. The core, made of quality brass, added a layer of durability to the device, and its solid brass body made it quite heavy. Now, there were a couple of things that could have been better. First, connecting it to my garden water pipe turned out to be quite a challenge, as the product's instructions didn't quite line up with the hardware I had. Secondly, it wasn't as ideal for professional use as I had hoped - the spray nozzle seemed to need a bit more tweaking to get it to work just right. Despite these minor drawbacks, the GDHXW X-887 High Pressure Washer Gun has proven to be a reliable tool for car cleaning enthusiasts like myself. With its adjustable spray nozzle, sturdy build, and surprisingly powerful pressure, this device has become an invaluable companion on my car cleaning journey. 🔗Car Wash Cannon: Easy, Foam Soap Blasting Systemhttps://preview.redd.it/3gxs1ibixb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3d97abe8edc40d994b37ebefa4cc69113127c586 I recently tried this Carwash Cannon Foam Soap Blaster, and it turned out to be quite the experience. I have to say, the ease of use and convenience of this product impressed me right away. It was simple to attach to my garden hose and start blasting foam all over my car. One of the standout features for me was the 5 different spray settings. I found that the foam setting between 3-5 (high) worked particularly well in covering my car in thick, cleansing foam. After letting it soak for a while, I used a wash mitt to scrub each section of the car and then rinsed it off, revealing a clean and shiny finish. However, I did find that it didn't completely eliminate the need for manual scrubbing. Some stubborn spots still required a bit of elbow grease to remove, but overall, the carwash cannon made the process much more enjoyable and efficient. In terms of cons, one thing I noticed was that the foam gun's performance seemed to vary slightly between uses. Sometimes it would produce a thick, generous foam, while other times it seemed to produce less foam with less force. Although this didn't significantly impact the overall cleaning experience, it did require some adjustment in technique when washing different areas of the car. Overall, I'm quite pleased with this Carwash Cannon Foam Soap Blaster. It has definitely made my car washing experience easier and more enjoyable. By using the right soap and paying attention to the foam settings, it delivers impressive results, and I'd recommend it for anyone looking to make their car washing routine more efficient and less of a hassle. 🔗Car Wash Foam Cannon with Adjustable Thicknesshttps://preview.redd.it/y1pkxkrixb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7ee8a52edbe0923dee9ca7285078d126886e22cb I recently tried the Foam Cannon from Proper Detailing Co. to make washing my car safer and quicker. One of the standout features is the wide mouth design that makes filling the cannon a breeze - just add water and foam shampoo. This cannon can be used with both electric and gas pressure washers, making it versatile and easy to use. I also love the stainless pickup tube filter, which ensures consistent foaming action even when I'm spraying at an angle. Another great advantage is the simplicity of the thickness knob, which makes it easy to control the ratio of foam to water. By turning the knob, I can achieve the perfect snowfoam for a sparkling clean car. The Foam Cannon from Proper Detailing Co. not only saves time but also keeps my car safe by creating a safe lubricant for washing without scratching or marring the paint. This quality product made by an Atlanta-based brand has made my car washing experience more enjoyable and hassle-free. 🔗Effortless Car Wash Foam Cannon: Powerful Cleaning with Non-Tip Designhttps://preview.redd.it/08v2dj2jxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1a47eff1d3a8519789784fb5a39e00770cab8349 I've been using the Armor All Foam Cannon in my daily life, and I must say it made my car washing routine a lot more enjoyable and efficient. The foam cannon not only saves me time but also provides better results as it evenly coats my vehicle with less effort, making it easier to clean and removing dirt and grime more effectively. One of the key aspects I appreciated about this foam cannon was its ease of use. The non-slip grip, along with the wide, non-tip bottle, ensures that I can control the foam cannon with ease while it effectively covers my car. Moreover, being compatible with a 1/4 inch Quick-Connect tip makes it more versatile and convenient to use, even with my existing pressure washer. While I've had a positive experience with the Armor All Foam Cannon, there was one thing that I found slightly frustrating. The 1/4 inch Quick-Connect tip that came with it didn't match my power washer perfectly, which led to an occasional overflow of foam and a messier experience. However, once I figured out the right Quick-Connect tip for my pressure washer, it made the foam cannon even more practical and efficient. In conclusion, the Armor All Foam Cannon has made my car washing experience a lot better, and I'm happy to see improvements in both the appearance of my car and my overall satisfaction. Despite the initial hiccup with the Quick-Connect tip, the foam cannon remains a practical and smart solution for anyone looking to simplify their car washing routine. 🔗Powerful Car Wash Foam Cannon Kit for Pressure Washershttps://preview.redd.it/ozwy6djjxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3e95b77d8e14ccb064c38c7d3b9e859fd332a23b Recently, I had a chance to use the MTM Hydro 28 Special PF22.2 Foam Cannon Kit as a car wash solution for my weekend projects. The kit includes everything you need for a pressure washer attachment, from plug adapters to fittings. The swivel function on the SG28 Spray Gun is a game-changer, as it prevents tangles while changing directions. The PF22.2 Foam Cannon itself is impressive, creating a consistent foam that helps deep clean the surface while saving time. However, one drawback I experienced is that it might not be the most efficient for larger surfaces like houses or fences. When I tested the product on my car, it delivered a thorough and even clean. The adjustable fan blades and 2-stage nozzle are great additions, allowing me to control the flow and coverage of the foam. The car wash gun's flexibility made it perfect for cleaning nooks and crannies around my car. Overall, the MTM Hydro 28 Special PF22.2 Foam Cannon Kit is a powerful and versatile tool for anyone looking to make their car washing routine more efficient and eco-friendly. 🔗MTM Hydro Ultimate Car Wash Cannon Kit with Spray Gun and Stainless Steel Fittingshttps://preview.redd.it/ce11z92kxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=403b81a15e21b5a879503797e494d71ff8b4fb83 When I first tried the MTM Hydro Ultimate Foam Cannon Kit and Spray Gun, I was impressed by how quickly and efficiently it cleaned my car. The integrated swivel gun and stainless steel fittings made maneuvering it a breeze, even in tight spaces. One of my favorite features is the adjustable nozzle, which allowed me to control the amount of foam I needed to get rid of stubborn dirt and grime. However, I did notice that the maximum pressure it could handle was only 5,000 PSI and 12 GPM. Despite this, the car wash foam cannon still produced a thick and effective cleaner for my vehicle. With its compatibility with various pressure washers and its ability to eliminate the need for reaching, the MTM Hydro Ultimate Foam Cannon Kit and Spray Gun is definitely a must-have for both home and professional cleaning needs. 🔗Professional Car Wash Foam Cannon for Touchless Cleaninghttps://preview.redd.it/p9e1zvckxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7fe0cc26f0649a50d06504a6b3a2f9d6adef7144 The Suds Lab F1 Professional Foam Cannon has been a game-changer in my car washing routine. Its ability to transform liquid soap into a luxurious foam that easily covers my car in a matter of minutes is truly remarkable. The installation process is a breeze, requiring no additional tools and simply needing to be attached to my pressure washer. One of the standout features for me is the adjustable foam control, which allows me to fully control the level of foam dispensed. This has been incredibly useful in saving my soap, and I no longer have to rely on the traditional sponge and bucket method. The 32-ounce canister size adds to its convenience, ensuring a sufficient amount of soap for multiple washes. However, there is a downside to this foam cannon. It can be quite bulky, as it measures approximately 6.89 inches in length and 9.84 inches in height. This makes it a bit challenging to store when not in use. Also, the pressure wash can be quite powerful, which means it may not be suitable for delicate surfaces or those who prefer a gentler wash. Overall, the Suds Lab F1 Professional Foam Cannon is a fantastic tool for anyone looking to streamline their car washing process, but its size and power level should be considered before making a purchase. 🔗Ultimate Car Wash Foam Gun for Pressure Washer Accessories Kithttps://preview.redd.it/ps2d0upkxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6cd31410aa949e25072fa60beff226b38cb31355 I remember the first time I tested this foam cannon for my pressure washer. It was a game-changer! The powerful 1.1mm valve created the most impressive foam I'd ever seen. It made washing my car so much more effective and enjoyable. I was impressed by how easy it was to use - simply add soap, fill with water, and shake to create the perfect car wash foam. The adjustable nozzle allowed me to control the spray pattern, making the experience even better. One of the things I loved about this foam cannon is its durability. The wide neck design ensures it won't crack, even under heavy use. I've used it multiple times now, and it still performs excellently. Plus, the fact that it comes with Snow Foam Car Wash Soap makes it a perfect car wash kit. However, there was one aspect I found a bit annoying - the foam cannon can be quite heavy when filled with water. But overall, I'd highly recommend this foam cannon to anyone looking for an efficient and effective way to wash their car. Buyer's GuideCar Wash Cannons are powerful, versatile tools designed to tackle various car cleaning tasks with ease. They provide an efficient and convenient way to clean cars, whether it's for personal use or a professional car wash service. In this guide, we will discuss various important factors to consider when purchasing a Car Wash Cannon to ensure you make the right choice.Water Pressurehttps://preview.redd.it/u0pzthlnxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=16311f8d593b007051bb97240927596b97d3c640 Water pressure is a critical factor when choosing a Car Wash Cannon. Ensure that the device you select can handle the required pressure for your specific application. Water pressure requirements may vary depending on the type of cleaning task, such as washing vehicle interiors, exteriors, or removing stubborn dirt and stains. VersatilityConsider the versatility of the Car Wash Cannon. Look for devices that come with multiple attachments, such as different nozzles, extensions, and brushes. This will allow you to tackle various cleaning tasks with ease without needing separate tools for each job. Versatile Car Wash Cannons can save you time and money in the long run.Durability and Build QualityCar Wash Cannons should be built to withstand regular use and harsh cleaning conditions. Look for devices made from high-quality materials, such as stainless steel or industrial-grade plastics. Inspect the build quality and construction of the Cannon to ensure that it can handle the wear and tear that comes with consistent use. https://preview.redd.it/sgwlqvxnxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b722717ee61e8360766a1251bf56d17117ca61fa Power SourceCar Wash Cannons can be powered by electricity, compressed air, or a combination of both. Each power source has its advantages and disadvantages. Electric car wash cannons are generally more powerful and easier to use, while compressed air cannons are more suited for specific applications. Consider the type of car washing tasks you need to perform and choose a power source that best fits your requirements.Noise LevelsNoise levels are an essential consideration when selecting a Car Wash Cannon, especially if you plan to use it in a residential area or close to living spaces. Look for devices with lower noise levels to minimize disruption to your surroundings.Maintenance and Cleaninghttps://preview.redd.it/xxrkq7goxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f80a7218db35f5099ba7cd8fa6fe8cf690171692 Proper maintenance and cleaning of your Car Wash Cannon are crucial to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Choose devices with replaceable or repairable parts to make it easier to maintain and clean. Additionally, follow the manufacturer's advice on maintenance and cleaning procedures to keep your Car Wash Cannon in top condition. Price and ValueFinally, consider the price and value of the Car Wash Cannon you are interested in purchasing. Higher-priced models may offer advanced features and better performance, but this doesn't always mean they are the best choice for your needs. Evaluate the cost-benefit ratio of the device and choose one that offers the best value for your money.By keeping these factors in mind, you'll be better equipped to make an informed decision when selecting a Car Wash Cannon that suits your car cleaning needs and expectations. FAQhttps://preview.redd.it/dztawiroxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2074a0dd1318abbe5b290aeadd191e0fa0bef4a2 What are Car Wash Cannons?Car Wash Cannons are high-powered, industrial-strength car wash systems designed for use at commercial car washes. These machines are capable of washing an entire vehicle at once and are perfect for high-volume car wash operations.How do Car Wash Cannons work?Car Wash Cannons use a combination of hot water, high-pressure cleaning jets, and specialized cleaning solutions to wash a vehicle. The process typically involves a pre-soak, foaming, and rinsing stage, followed by a high-pressure wash to remove dirt and grime. Finally, the vehicle is polished and waxed to give it a shiny finish.Are Car Wash Cannons easy to operate?While Car Wash Cannons are designed to be user-friendly, it is essential to receive proper training from the manufacturer or a certified technician. This will ensure that you are aware of all safety procedures and maintenance requirements to operate the machine efficiently.What are the benefits of using a Car Wash Cannon?
How much do Car Wash Cannons cost?The cost of a Car Wash Cannon can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the size of the machine, the features it includes, and the manufacturer. It is best to contact the manufacturer directly or consult a reputable dealer for an accurate price quote.What maintenance is required for a Car Wash Cannon?Regular maintenance is essential to ensure that your Car Wash Cannon operates efficiently and safely. This may include cleaning filters, replacing worn parts, and inspecting the entire system for any potential issues. It is recommended to follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule and consult a certified technician for any necessary repairs.As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. |
2024.05.19 08:40 LNGU1203 Back in 1996, I got paid $10 an hour for IT work. Was it a fair pay?
I was 16 when I got my first paid IT job in NYC. Back then the minimum wage was $4.75. For my $10 an hour cash IT job, I created a website with animated gifs using html and photoshop, domain registration, ran email campaigns through AOL dialup. Was this a fair pay considering the age and the duties above?
submitted by LNGU1203 to sysadmin [link] [comments]
2024.05.19 08:31 Brumbulli African embassies
Many of their embassies have just a handful of diplomats. Those diplomats often are underpaid; some take side jobs in Washington such as Uber or delivery drivers, or even at gas stations, according to a current and a former State Department official familiar with the issue.
https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2024/05/16/african-diplomats-washington-column-00158231
submitted by Brumbulli to IRstudies [link] [comments]
https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2024/05/16/african-diplomats-washington-column-00158231
2024.05.19 08:28 The_Everything_B_Mod But the stock market broke 40,000! /s
 | submitted by The_Everything_B_Mod to the_everything_bubble [link] [comments] |
2024.05.19 08:22 callumcromar_10 Self-employed delivery driver rear ended by lorry - I cant work due to my injuries
Hello, I don't know if this is the right sub for what I'm about to post, if it isn't I would appreciate being pointed in the right direction.
So I'm a self-employed delivery driver and I was involved in quite a serious car accident whilst at work. I approached a queue of traffic where I came to a complete stop with my foot on the brake, a few seconds later I was rear ended by a 16 tonne lorry which as you can imagine was a huge impact.
I was left with the following injuries - severe right ankle pain when I walk, a swollen and bruised left kneecap, whiplash, significant neck and back pain. Due to these injuries i'm obviously unable to work for the foreseebale future due to the nature of my job requiring me to drive and walk for 9/10 hours a day.
I was told by the police at the scene that all indications are that the lorry driver is at fault and that there will be an investigation to find out exactly what caused the accident wether that be him on his phone or just careless driving.
My only concern and the thing I was looking for advice on was the fact i'm self employed means I don't recieve any sort of SSP so i'm obviously worried about my finances since I don't know when or if i can return to work.
I spoke to a few different injury lawyers yesterday who all told me that i definately have a case and that if I was to win my case I would recieve money based off my loss of earnings and that their specialist lawyers would call me on Monday as the offices were closed on the weekend.
I would appreciate any advice on what I should do with this situation.
submitted by callumcromar_10 to LegalAdviceUK [link] [comments]
So I'm a self-employed delivery driver and I was involved in quite a serious car accident whilst at work. I approached a queue of traffic where I came to a complete stop with my foot on the brake, a few seconds later I was rear ended by a 16 tonne lorry which as you can imagine was a huge impact.
I was left with the following injuries - severe right ankle pain when I walk, a swollen and bruised left kneecap, whiplash, significant neck and back pain. Due to these injuries i'm obviously unable to work for the foreseebale future due to the nature of my job requiring me to drive and walk for 9/10 hours a day.
I was told by the police at the scene that all indications are that the lorry driver is at fault and that there will be an investigation to find out exactly what caused the accident wether that be him on his phone or just careless driving.
My only concern and the thing I was looking for advice on was the fact i'm self employed means I don't recieve any sort of SSP so i'm obviously worried about my finances since I don't know when or if i can return to work.
I spoke to a few different injury lawyers yesterday who all told me that i definately have a case and that if I was to win my case I would recieve money based off my loss of earnings and that their specialist lawyers would call me on Monday as the offices were closed on the weekend.
I would appreciate any advice on what I should do with this situation.
2024.05.19 08:05 spicymeatball4 I (21M) am still in love with my ex (21F) after we broke up 18 months ago. Should I try to rekindle it or attempt to move on?
I (21M) met my ex (21F) when we were both 17 in my senior year of high school. We knew each other when we were little kids and then didn’t see each other until we were 17. Right away we had an instant connection. We would get together almost everyday and it was amazing. We both went to different colleges and I ended up failing in college pretty miserably my first semester due to drug and alcohol addiction and other issues. I was able to transfer to the school she was at and things were really good again. Overtime however, my addiction got worse and I could barely ever even communicate. I’d get so drunk and high that days would go by and I’d have no idea what even happened. She tried to help me through it but she liked to drink and smoke weed and could do it in a somewhat healthy way. I’d get mad at her when she’d tell me not to drink or smoke or do whatever drug I wanted to do. Things slowly deteriorated and she ended up telling me that while we apart long distance during our first semester of college that she had sent nude pics to a guy for money. I told her that I had paid for porn. We argued for a while and then had sex and things were never the same. Took a break for a week and I eventually broke up with her over the phone after when she got mad at me not answering it. I went to rehab and am sober now and have been for 16 months. Looking back I realize how much of the problem I was. Don’t get me wrong, she had her faults and made mistakes. But I handed things horribly due to drugs. I actually made amends with her this past December. I said I was sorry in person for all the pain I’d caused and things I’d said. The only really mean thing I’d said was when we broke up. I had T old her that she brought no joy to my life. In reality, I just hated myself back then. I ended up moving across the country after getting sober and just visit my hometown where she lives and goes to college every so often.
She is so beautiful and I still get butterflies in my stomach when I see her. She’s a good person and definitely has flaws but I love her regardless. I think about her almost everyday. I dream about her at least once a week. We’ve been texting recently but just small talk. I’m thinking of seeing if she’d want to get together to hangout when I go home next month. I have a job across the country and I’m not going to quit for her on whim and move back to where she is. I also can’t do long distance because of what happened last time. I also don’t even know if she’d want to get back together. Would it be a bad idea to hangout regardless? What’s the worst that could happen? I’m getting a lot of mixed responses from friends so I thought I’d ask the internet. Anything helps. Thanks.
I’ve only seen her in person once since the breakup and that was this past December. We are now on good terms. Also we dated for a year and a half before we broke up and it’s been a year and a half since then.
It’d be really awkward if she sees this lmao. I don’t even think she uses Reddit but we will see.
submitted by spicymeatball4 to relationship_advice [link] [comments]
She is so beautiful and I still get butterflies in my stomach when I see her. She’s a good person and definitely has flaws but I love her regardless. I think about her almost everyday. I dream about her at least once a week. We’ve been texting recently but just small talk. I’m thinking of seeing if she’d want to get together to hangout when I go home next month. I have a job across the country and I’m not going to quit for her on whim and move back to where she is. I also can’t do long distance because of what happened last time. I also don’t even know if she’d want to get back together. Would it be a bad idea to hangout regardless? What’s the worst that could happen? I’m getting a lot of mixed responses from friends so I thought I’d ask the internet. Anything helps. Thanks.
I’ve only seen her in person once since the breakup and that was this past December. We are now on good terms. Also we dated for a year and a half before we broke up and it’s been a year and a half since then.
It’d be really awkward if she sees this lmao. I don’t even think she uses Reddit but we will see.
2024.05.19 07:46 GhoulGriin Best Car Covers for Snow
 | submitted by GhoulGriin to u/GhoulGriin [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/uuf6htbzmb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ca7d0b744496f58464321072dd0516b50fa6eb9c Discover the optimal car cover solution to keep your ride in pristine condition during the frosty months ahead. The Top 8 Best Car Covers for Snow
Reviews🔗Breathable Gray Lightweight Car Cover for Snowhttps://preview.redd.it/3sb4jepzmb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=932dcf0f506db0e80819d7fd7bceb9769919127e I recently purchased the Budge Lite Car Cover, and I have to say, it's been a game-changer for me. First off, the material is super lightweight and breathable, which means my car doesn't get all stuffy under there. Plus, it's easy to handle and store when I'm not using it. One thing that really stood out to me is how well it fits my car. The elastic hem ensures a snug fit, so even on a windy day, it stays put. And speaking of wind, the antenna patch is a nice touch that keeps my antenna safe and sound. Now, let's talk about some drawbacks. While the cover does a decent job of keeping most things like dust and leaves off my car, it's not entirely waterproof. After a rain, I noticed some water seeping in, which was a bit disappointing. Overall, I'm pretty happy with this Budge Lite Car Cover. It's lightweight, easy to handle, and provides a nice snug fit for my car. If you're looking for something to protect your vehicle from the elements, this might just be the perfect cover for you. 🔗Universal Fit Car Windshield Snow Cover and Side Mirror Covershttps://preview.redd.it/f6d5x240nb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=285410d0828db6e6deb04f87d3caa99d69b762d1 I recently tried the Asz Car Windshield Cover for Ice and Snow, and I have to say, it made my winters so much more convenient. The thickened material is excellent at keeping out snow and ice, and I love that it comes with side mirror covers for added protection. The magnetic embedded design means it's super easy to put on and take off, which is a game-changer when I'm in a hurry. However, one minor issue is that it's a little bulky, so it's not the most space-efficient option out there. Overall, I highly recommend the Asz Car Windshield Cover for anyone looking to simplify their winter mornings! . 🔗All-Weather Heavy Duty Car Cover for Sedanshttps://preview.redd.it/tzpw7sl0nb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=129bb66cdaf87d2c75f1775f74081db2f1a7e0d1 Last fall, I got my hands on the Armor All Heavy Duty Premium Car Cover for my sedan, and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed. The first thing that caught my attention was its promise of all-weather protection. Living in a region with unpredictable weather, this was a godsend! The cover's heavy-duty material and strong stitching have indeed safeguarded my car against various unpredictable conditions, from sudden downpours to blistering sun. One feature that stood out was the cover's breathable material. I was concerned about moisture buildup causing mold and mildew on my vehicle's finish. However, the Armor All cover has proven effective in preventing such issues, making it worth every penny. Additionally, the cover's 6-point high wind protection system ensures that it stays in place during stormy days, providing me with a peace of mind I never had with my previous covers. However, there is a small con. The cover can be cumbersome to carry around due to its size and weight. A built-in storage bag or a slightly lighter design would have been a great addition. Despite this downside, I find the Armor All Heavy Duty Premium Car Cover to be an excellent investment for any car owner who values their vehicle's appearance and needs dependable protection against harsh weather elements. 🔗Budge Lite Car Cover for Sedans Up to 16'8https://preview.redd.it/1lelklw0nb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fef3706a6bdc7c67ccf50471a0e55a0fecc9a7ed I can't stress enough how crucial it is to protect your car from the elements, and the Budge Lite Car Cover has been a lifesaver in this regard. As someone who keeps their vehicle in a garage with a metal roof, I know all too well how dust, soot, and debris can accumulate and cause damage to a car's finish. I've been using this cover for over five years on multiple cars, and it's been a game-changer. I've been amazed at how effectively it keeps my car clean and dust-free, even in a very dirty environment. The key to keeping my cars in pristine condition is constant maintenance and proper storage. I make sure to cover my vehicle each time I park it, and I've found that the Budge Lite Car Cover is the perfect solution for my needs. The single layer of polypropylene is lightweight and easy to use, making it an ideal choice for indoor storage and occasional outdoor usage against dust, dirt, and debris. One of the standout features of this car cover is its breathability. Constructed with a single layer of polypropylene, the Budge Lite Cover allows air to circulate, which helps to reduce condensation. This is particularly important for preventing mold and mildew from forming on your car's surfaces. Additionally, the elasticized hem and built-in grommets secure the cover all-year round, ensuring that it stays in place even during strong winds. I've also used the car cover outside on weekends or for temporary coverings, and I've been impressed with its ability to keep my car dry and spotless, even in heavy rainstorms. The water just beads up and rolls off, which is a testament to the quality of the material. However, I will say that the fit can vary since it's a universal cover, so sometimes it might be too tight or too loose, depending on your car's size and shape. And despite being lightweight and easy to clean with just a hose, some users may find that the lack of a soft inner lining can catch dust and other debris, which could scratch your car's finish. Overall, the Budge Lite Car Cover is a fantastic product that's perfect for indoor storage and occasional outdoor use. Its lightweight design and breathability make it a great choice for keeping your car clean and protected from the elements, and the additional features, like the elasticized hem and built-in grommets, make it a secure and user-friendly option. At its budget-friendly price point, this car cover is a no-brainer for anyone looking to protect their vehicle from dust, debris, and damage. 🔗High Quality 3-Layer Car Cover with UV Protectionhttps://preview.redd.it/ovqoqjf1nb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7ccd5246809f4cb664c243f5bfacca4520b4cf00 I recently purchased the Leader Accessories Car Cover for my vehicle, and I must say, it has exceeded my expectations. The three-layer fabric is incredibly breathable, providing excellent air circulation which has helped to keep my car dry and free from moisture damage. One feature that truly stands out is the UV protection it offers, ensuring my vehicle's paint remains safe from those harmful sunrays. Additionally, the elastic hem provides a snug fit, keeping the cover in place even during windy conditions due to its attached strap and buckle. However, despite its many great qualities, I found that the cover doesn't seem to offer much resistance to dust. Nonetheless, the package it comes in is convenient and includes an easy-to-use storage bag. Overall, I would highly recommend the Leader Accessories Car Cover, especially for those seeking a reliable, well-fitting cover with outstanding UV protection! 🔗Durable All-Weather Car Cover with Door Zipper & Reflective Stripeshttps://preview.redd.it/9q8exfq1nb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d6c9c2652918a821704adb6cb2015d24e32b6759 I recently stumbled upon the Nilight Waterproof Car Cover and decided to give it a shot. What caught my eye was its premium 210T Oxford cloth, which I can confirm is both lightweight and incredibly durable. The fabric is waterproof, heat insulating, and breathable, making it perfect for all weather conditions. One feature that stood out is the unique door zipper on the driver's side - it allows me quick and convenient access to my car without having to remove the entire cover. Additionally, the windproof straps and elastic hem help keep the cover snug even in strong winds, and the combination lock offers added security. One downside I noticed is that while the reflective stripes are great for visibility at night, they can be a bit overly bright and reflective during the day when you're driving. Overall, this all-weather car cover has done a great job protecting my car from the elements, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a solid, reliable solution to keep their vehicle clean and safe from the elements. 🔗Favoto Waterproof All-Weather Sedan Car Coverhttps://preview.redd.it/uaklsf42nb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8952a02b07290c0a20c8e1224a77a2ca4059fb18 I want to talk about my car cover experience, especially with the Favoto All-Weather Sedan Car Cover. As a car owner, I've learned the importance of protecting my vehicle from the harsh elements, both natural and man-made. The Favoto cover has been a game-changer for me. Firstly, the driver's side zipper design is such a convenience. It makes getting in and out of the car a breeze, even when it's covered. The night reflection stripes are an added bonus - they make sure my car's contour is visible even in the dark, reducing the risk of accidents. The Favoto cover is made of heavy-duty, 5-layer material that's both durable and waterproof. The cotton lining ensures no scratches on my car's paint. Unlike some other covers made of PE and PEVA, this one won't tear easily. The best part? This cover provides comprehensive protection against all types of weather elements, from dust and snow to acid rain, bird droppings, and even pollution. And let's not forget about securing it - the elasticated edge along with the 4 securing straps under the car keep it in place, even on windy days. In the real world, your car can face potential damages from weather, animals, and even people. Car covers like this one are a great investment to keep your car safe and sound. The Favoto All-Weather Sedan Car Cover offers excellent protection against all these threats. And finally, I must mention how easy it is to store and carry this cover. It folds neatly into its storage bag and doesn't take up much space. This makes it perfect for those times when you need to take your cover with you. In conclusion, if you're looking for a high-quality, all-weather car cover that's easy to use and provides complete protection, the Favoto All-Weather Sedan Car Cover is definitely worth considering. 🔗Motor Trend Snow-Proof Car Cover with Storage Bag and Lockhttps://preview.redd.it/1p5kduo2nb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=190fce66b0c3d35b99185416c27c2c2085a3b8e1 I recently got my hands on the Motor Trend All Season Weatherwear 1-Poly Layer Snow Proof, Water Resistant Car Cover Size XL1 - Fits Up to 210". Having a car that's subjected to harsh weather conditions, I was in need of something that could offer protection and durability. Since trying it out, I must say I am pleasantly surprised. This cover has an extra durable polyester construction which indeed stands up well against various elements including snow, dust, wind, UV rays, and even minor scratchings. Not to mention, it also keeps the interior cool on sunny days. It even comes with a free storage bag and lock, which is a nice addition. However, on the flip side, the material seems to be quite thin despite its claims. This might be a concern in areas with extreme wind conditions as it could potentially tear. Additionally, although the elastic hem at the bottom provides a snug fit, I found it a bit of a struggle to put on and remove. In conclusion, the Motor Trend All Season Weatherwear Car Cover is a great option for those in search of an affordable, all-season car cover. While it may not be the most robust option out there, it gets the job done in terms of protecting your vehicle from most common weather conditions. Buyer's GuideIn areas with heavy snowfall, protecting your vehicle from harsh winter conditions becomes crucial. Car covers for snow offer excellent protection against snowfall, freezing temperatures, and harsh UV rays. By using a car cover tailored to withstand snow, you can help prevent damage caused by prolonged exposure to winter elements.Features to Considerhttps://preview.redd.it/bgqci603nb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7aa357635b6df75a160fa2579a4c34c3b68f2dd9
Considerations for Choosing a Car CoverBefore purchasing a car cover for snow, consider the size of your vehicle, additional features you may require, and the price range that fits your budget. It is also essential to check manufacturer warranties and customer reviews for the best options in the market.General Advice for Car Cover Care
https://preview.redd.it/nyp6qih3nb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6b9ad2f38befdb40926e7d73d69a23e08c7ab389 FAQ1. What are the benefits of using a car cover in the snow?Car covers provide protection against snow, ice, and harsh winter elements, preventing damage to your vehicle's paint, windows, and other components. They also keep your car warm and dry, save time on defrosting or scraping ice, and help maintain your vehicle's value and appearance.2. How do car covers help in removing snow?https://preview.redd.it/paa1rxs3nb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8ca1cb7d978070cd52c41efdff6183ee35f81259 Car covers prevent snow from accumulating on your vehicle, which means there's less snow to remove when you use the cover. It's generally easier and quicker to brush off a car cover than to scrape ice off your vehicle's surface. 3. How do I choose the right car cover for my vehicle?In addition to fit, consider factors like material, thickness, waterproofing, UV protection, and ease of use. Some covers are more durable, better at shedding water, or easier to put on and take off. You may also want to consider options with added features like integrated straps and grommets for enhanced security.4. What materials are best for winter car covers?Look for materials that offer good waterproofing and insulation, as well as resistance to UV damage. Common materials for car covers include polyester, polypropylene, and polyethylene. Some higher-end covers may also incorporate layers of microfiber or fleece for added insulation and protection. https://preview.redd.it/v9jt7af4nb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=28f81788a633f31452570e59e3bc750c2b33d92c 5. How do I install a car cover for snow protection?Before installing the cover, clear your vehicle of snow and ice. Place the cover over your car, making sure it covers all necessary areas (including the roof, windows, and mirrors). Secure the cover by using built-in straps, grommets, or clips provided with the cover. Make sure all edges are snug and free of gaps to ensure the best protection from snow and ice.6. Can car covers be used for long-term storage in cold weather?Yes, car covers can be used to protect your vehicle from the harsh elements during long-term storage in the winter. Make sure the cover is properly fitted, secured, and periodically checked for any damage or wear. In addition to the cover, use a suitable storage location that provides protection from moisture, wind, and other environmental factors.7. Are car covers resistant to ice accumulation and damage?The best-quality car covers are designed to be water-resistant and windproof, reducing the risk of ice accumulation and damage. However, it's still important to remove accumulated snow and ice from the cover promptly, especially after significant snowfalls, to prevent damage and ensure optimal performance.8. How often should I clean my car cover in the winter?Car covers should be cleaned periodically to ensure they remain effective at protecting your vehicle. In winter, this may mean more frequent cleanings to remove salt, grime, and other debris. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for cleaning and maintenance, as some materials may require specific care instructions.9. Can I use the same car cover for summer and winter protection?While some car covers are designed to provide year-round protection, not all will offer optimal performance in both summer and winter. Materials that are breathable and lightweight may be ideal for hot weather, while thicker, more insulated materials can be better for protecting your vehicle in the cold and snow. Consider the specific needs and conditions of your region and vehicle when selecting a cover that will provide the best protection throughout the year.10. How can I store my car cover when not in use?Car covers should be properly stored and maintained to prolong their lifespan. After removing the cover from your vehicle, gently brush off any loose snow, dirt, or debris. Fold or roll the cover neatly, and store it in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area to prevent mildew or damage from moisture. Following manufacturer's instructions on storage can also help keep your cover in optimal condition for extended use.As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. |
2024.05.19 07:38 Shadofortuna My dad's constant criticisms are affecting my adult life.
TW: Abuse
I'm here to vent, but I wouldn't mind some support, if possible. Things are not going well for me right now.
My dad is very much present in my life, but it's apparent to everyone that he f'd all of his kids up.
To summarize, the man was born in the middle of the Vietnam War. He spent three years of homelessness in communist Vietnam with his entire family during his childhood, and consistently reminds us of this to this very day. It's been his way of dismissing any protests my siblings have had towards the things he'd done to us - hitting us with rolled up newspapers like dogs, verbal and psychological abuse, frequent displays of intimidation - at one point, my mom had suspected sexual abuse as well.
I developed a rare soft tissue tumor in 7th grade. It broke through the skin, and I had to be rushed to the ER. He immediately blamed me because of a superstition of not eating red meat after an operation. At the time, I was severely anemic, underweight, and spent the night in the hospital getting two bags of blood infused. 3 years later, I was put in a psych ward for an eval after some remarks to a counselor. He was banned from seeing me, and blamed my mom(who we only saw on weekends) for f'ing me up. "She's doing this shit for attention," he says.
Fast forward to today. I've developed another tumor, which turned out to be cancer this time. Two weeks ago, I had a follow up with my oncologist. They have concerns about my most recent CT scan, and think it may be lung cancer. I've barely been able to get out of bed since then. My mental health is garbage, and I'm not able to do as much physical labor as I could do - especially when I'm working with an arm that is visibly missing a huge chunk of bicep muscle, swollen, and nerve damage in my hand. "Cancer is no excuse to be lazy."
I've also expressed interest in getting my MSW to become a therapist, as it's something I've unofficially been doing for everyone in my family since I was 12, and I'd make more money than I'm making now with a State job (12.50/hr). I was pushed into the state job by my dad because my film degree is garbage, like the rest of my aspirations. Now, my dad can't fathom that I get paid less for being single and childless. He's also pointed out that I've gained weight - something that's been a sore spot for me all my life - and he's only complimented me when I rapidly dropped weight from both tumors.
Thanks to all of that, I have severe anxiety attacks when SOMETHING goes wrong - it could be anything. I have such low self esteem, and possibly early stages of BD. If I had moved back closer to my dad, I'm certain I would develop an ED. I've considered offing myself many times since 5th grade, and I'm surprised I haven't done it yet. If I make it past 30, I'd be surprising my 16 year old self. Using the excuse "what will happen to my pets?" isn't inspiring my will to live like it used to.
submitted by Shadofortuna to daddyissuesclub [link] [comments]
I'm here to vent, but I wouldn't mind some support, if possible. Things are not going well for me right now.
My dad is very much present in my life, but it's apparent to everyone that he f'd all of his kids up.
To summarize, the man was born in the middle of the Vietnam War. He spent three years of homelessness in communist Vietnam with his entire family during his childhood, and consistently reminds us of this to this very day. It's been his way of dismissing any protests my siblings have had towards the things he'd done to us - hitting us with rolled up newspapers like dogs, verbal and psychological abuse, frequent displays of intimidation - at one point, my mom had suspected sexual abuse as well.
I developed a rare soft tissue tumor in 7th grade. It broke through the skin, and I had to be rushed to the ER. He immediately blamed me because of a superstition of not eating red meat after an operation. At the time, I was severely anemic, underweight, and spent the night in the hospital getting two bags of blood infused. 3 years later, I was put in a psych ward for an eval after some remarks to a counselor. He was banned from seeing me, and blamed my mom(who we only saw on weekends) for f'ing me up. "She's doing this shit for attention," he says.
Fast forward to today. I've developed another tumor, which turned out to be cancer this time. Two weeks ago, I had a follow up with my oncologist. They have concerns about my most recent CT scan, and think it may be lung cancer. I've barely been able to get out of bed since then. My mental health is garbage, and I'm not able to do as much physical labor as I could do - especially when I'm working with an arm that is visibly missing a huge chunk of bicep muscle, swollen, and nerve damage in my hand. "Cancer is no excuse to be lazy."
I've also expressed interest in getting my MSW to become a therapist, as it's something I've unofficially been doing for everyone in my family since I was 12, and I'd make more money than I'm making now with a State job (12.50/hr). I was pushed into the state job by my dad because my film degree is garbage, like the rest of my aspirations. Now, my dad can't fathom that I get paid less for being single and childless. He's also pointed out that I've gained weight - something that's been a sore spot for me all my life - and he's only complimented me when I rapidly dropped weight from both tumors.
Thanks to all of that, I have severe anxiety attacks when SOMETHING goes wrong - it could be anything. I have such low self esteem, and possibly early stages of BD. If I had moved back closer to my dad, I'm certain I would develop an ED. I've considered offing myself many times since 5th grade, and I'm surprised I haven't done it yet. If I make it past 30, I'd be surprising my 16 year old self. Using the excuse "what will happen to my pets?" isn't inspiring my will to live like it used to.