benefits/ESA/v. work/illness/stress
I may likely have to make the decision to go on benefits or find a job in the not quite so immediate future.
I don't feel well enough to work, but I don't feel I would be seen as ill enough to be on benefits [job seekers allowance would be too stressful for me so it would need to be employment support allowance, but am I ill enough?]. I hate this trap but it looks like I'll have to bridge it somehow. Any perspectives/support/experience/kind words please? |
It's a tricky feeling, grappling with benefits, and can leave you feeling so vulnerable. But this really is what they're there for - to help support people with health conditions that prevent them from being able to work. It's all quite subjective, but the fact that you're being treated by a specialist mental health team is supportive in an application for benefits. The forms can feel quite arduous, would you consider getting some support from somewhere like the Citizen's Advice? ESA is definitely worth applying for, plus CAB will offer advice on any other benefits you might be able to claim.
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Thank you.
I can't apply for benefits until I need to move, so the timing is all complicated. There is an organisation that can help me that I know of, at least. |
It can all be very complicated, you're right, so I'm very glad to hear you will be able to get some professional advice and support. It is worth applying for though, and should hopefully give you the opportunity to do permitted work as and when you feel more well, but that's not something you need to worry about at this stage.
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Thanks. I'd have to wait until the last minute almost though. I just want to feel more well....
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I hear you. It's a very vulnerable feeling.
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It is.
Why does one need strength to apply for something that's meant to support you when you're most vulnerable?! |
Why not go on UC as someome with health condition if you are not well enough for work and then when things perk up, you could the change to UC as jobseeker... but personally I wouldn’t go on jobseekers unless you want miserable sods from the jobcentre calling you every week. Have you got a job yet? Whereas you are long term unwell your are long term unwell.
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The thing is I don't know what I am.
But I have been out of work for 2 years. Ironically before I was dismissed I was well enough to be working, with adjustments. Dismissal due to my illness [it's complicated] made me more ill! Thanks though. If only it were that simple. |
Are there any professionals/personal contacts in your life who you trust to help you make these decisions? Or a benefits advisor or someone?
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Thanks Lindsay.
My therapist says she isn't qualified to help, but we agreed I'm not yet ready to work. There are people that I can speak to where I go for my groups, so I will explore that. I just don't know what to start with. |
Just an note that they are no longer accepting new claims for ESA so you need to claim universal credit. If you are going to claim universal credit you need to do it asap due to the fact that there's a six week delay before you get payment.
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Is there an illness version then where they don't hassle you?!
I have 2 years.. |
UC is replacing most benefits, other than things like DLA/PIP. I think there is a new kind of ESA some people can get along with UC but I'm not sure of the ins and outs. Is there a money/benefits advice place in your area?
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So if I went on UC I'd still have to apply for 1000064 jobs a week?! [exaggeration, but you get the point!] even though it would make me more unwell?
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My understanding is (I could be wrong) that it's quite similar to being on ESA. They might want to check in with you every now and then at the Jobcentre but no, it shouldn't be a case of having to apply for jobs if you're deemed not well enough. It's tricky and I must admit I don't know much about UC, but try not to worry too much (if only it were that easy!) because I don't think it's massively different to ESA in that respect.
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Ok, thanks. :)
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I am currently in receipt of esa and pip. My mental health team helped me fill out the forms an were present at the assessments. It is important wen you do apply to get supporting evidence eg. Letters frm psychiatrist/cpn/dr. They are less likey to challenge your claim. My cpn comes ti my assesments as again. They are less likey to challenge you. Im not going to lie it can be stressful But it is worth it. You can then focus on your recovery rather than being pushed into a stituation you dont want. I was pushed into volenterring, it ended badly. And i ended up back to being a complete nervous reck.
Do what you feel is best for you and your health. Good luck >^..^< |
UC replaces all the old benefits. You would take your medical evidence in and they would decide how many hours (if any) per week you have to work or look for work. They may make you get sick notes to cover any time off job hunting, unless they decide you are long term sick. I know quite a bit about it as I help people say to day with their claims. Feel free to PM me if you want a bit more help.
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Thank you both.
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