‘True enough Laura. Can you tell me what you could bring to the role of library assistant?
‘I think it is important that I have a love of books myself; when you have an interest, it encourages others to have an interest.’
‘Can you tell me a little about your qualifications?’
‘I went to Westside Secondary. I gained my Numeracy, Literacy and Science GCSEs. After school I went to Windsor college to study photography for two years. I briefly studied psychology at university, but I didn’t complete the course.’
‘What was the reason for that?’
Depression was a factor that could lose her this job. If she told a lie, and was found out further along the line – they would have no choice but to sack her. Laura took a deep breath. ‘I . . . I suffer with depression,’ hands were steadied on her lap before she continued. ‘I believe it is better to get things out in the open.’
Her job prospects seemed to diminish as each second passed. Laura couldn’t help wondering why this woman hadn’t instantly shown her the door. Mental health issues were normally something future employers shied away from.
‘Sorry, I’ll understand if you want me to go.’
‘Why would I want that? Depression isn’t something to feel ashamed about.’
‘No it isn’t.’
Writer Ravenclaw 