Money is not scarce. It never has been, and it never will be – not in health, not in disability, not in mental health.

Money is not scarce. It never has been, and it never will be – not in health, not in disability, not in mental health.? I am trying to explore, in my own head, why money should not be seen as scarce in these crucial areas and why we need to question the exorbitant compensation of leadership in these sectors.

The perception of money scarcity in health, disability, and mental health is a common argument used to justify limited resources and prioritise cost-cutting measures. However, this perspective fails to recognise the vast resources that are available and the potential for equitable distribution. It is essential to understand that money is a man-made construct, and in modern economies, it can be created and distributed as needed (not the same as income, that’s a different article). Governments have the power to create currency and allocate funds to meet the needs of their citizens. The issue is not a lack of money but a lack of will and priorities. (hold on, don’t blast me yet… ;) )

In the realm of health, the scarcity narrative often leads to underfunding of essential services, resulting in inadequate healthcare access and outcomes for marginalised consumers. This can lead to preventable suffering and loss of life. Instead of accepting this narrative, we should recognise that investing in healthcare is an investment in our collective well-being. By properly funding healthcare systems, we can improve the overall health of our communities, reduce long-term costs, and enhance our society's resilience.

Similarly, the perception of scarcity in disability support services can perpetuate inequalities and barriers for people with disabilities. Many individuals with disabilities face significant challenges in accessing essential services, education, and employment opportunities. Adequate funding and support can make a profound difference in our lives, enabling us to live more independently and contribute to society beyond the disability industries that exploit us. It is essential to prioritise the allocation of resources to create a more inclusive and accessible world for all.

Mental health is another area where the scarcity narrative has detrimental consequences. Mental health issues affect millions of people globally, yet stigma and underfunding persist. The scarcity mindset often leads to a lack of investment in prevention, early intervention, and accessible mental health services. This not only increases suffering but also places a significant burden on healthcare systems and society as a whole. By recognising the abundance of resources available, we can prioritise mental health and provide better support for those of us in need.

Now, let's address the issue of excessive compensation for leadership in these sectors. No sacristy here – is there? It is not uncommon to see top executives and administrators in healthcare, disability support, and mental health organisations earning exorbitant salaries. While leadership roles require expertise and responsibility, the vast income disparities within these organisations, and the people they “care” for, ?are cause for concern.

One argument for high executive compensation is the need to attract top talent. However, this argument often overlooks the dedicated and skilled professionals working on the front lines who provide direct care and support to individuals in need. It is these individuals who have a profound impact on the lives of those they serve, yet their compensation does not reflect their value. Instead of focusing on extravagant leadership salaries, we should prioritise fair and competitive wages for all employees, including those who directly contribute to the well-being of others.

In conclusion, money is not scarce in the realms of health, disability, and mental health. The scarcity narrative is a flawed perspective that hinders progress and perpetuates inequalities. It is essential to recognise the abundance of resources available and prioritize their equitable distribution to improve the well-being of individuals and communities. Additionally, we must question the excessive compensation of leadership in these sectors and redirect resources to ensure fair compensation for all those who contribute to the betterment of society. Ultimately, it is not a lack of money but a lack of prioritisation and responsibility that must be addressed to create a more just and equitable world.

With Love,

Richard and Havic x