I have had depression for years. I resigned from teaching in May 2023, and didn't return, as I was so anxious. I have not worked since, only doing some online coaching. I also have Hashimoto's and I've been referred to a rheumatologist with suspected Lupus, both auto immune diseases.
I have decided to try to apply to receive my pension earlier, on health grounds, as I barely have the energy to get out of bed a lot of days, there is no way I can work in the traditional way I did before, I struggle with insomnia, depression, anxiety and extreme exhaustion. I just wondered if anybody else has applied for early retirement from ill health. My school/last employer have completed my sick record, but the doctor I spoke to was incredibly unsympathetic and unhelpful. I do not know whether it might be worth contacting a private doctor for assistance. Any comments would be appreciated. Thanks. Eva
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Hi Eva I'm so sorry to hear if your difficulties. Teaching is challenging enough when we're fit and well .
I gave up teaching when I was 56, due to worsening Rheumatoid Arthritis and , to put it diplomatically, issues with the headteacher
( all in the past now). I didn't go for ill health retirement so I can't answer your question I'm afraid.
Are you in a teaching union ? They should be able to advise you on the procedures . Even if you're not a member, you should be able to access information. Also, your education authority should be able to advise . And the teachers pension service .
I apologise if you've already tried these agencies already.
I hope you can get some answers and the outcome you so clearly need 🐰
If you're not a member it's worth joining . Please don't go through such an important decision without professional support. They were my first part of call when I was having my problems and their support was fantastic. We didn't have a rep in school so I was supported by the area rep.
I think you mean medial retirement. The state pension age is currently 66 until 2026 when it rises again. Its never paid any earlier.
As for any private pensions this depends on the arrangement with your provider. Some pensions may be able to be taken at 50 but I have never heard of them being released earlier than the dates stated on it. Despite illness I couldn't take mine until 60.
I do know medical retirement is hard to get but go for it if you think you have a chance. I don't know why your doctor is not sympathetic. If you have a group practice then maybe see another doctor there instead.
I don't know if the your employer would take any notice of a private doctor, or the NHS so can't advise on that.
In the meantime I would go on UC and try and get the ESA element. You can also try for PIP - Personal Independence Payment but they are cracking down on that especially with mental health claims. Go on the Govt.UK site for benefit information.
When I was working, the teacher's private pension age was 60 . You were able to take it at 55 but it was reduced for every year that you claimed it early. I don't know if this penalty is waived if you retire on grounds of ill health as I never tried for it .
Hi.yes very hard to get medical retirement. Can you apply for early retirement as I think some employments you can apply once you get to 50 years old? Definitely see if you can get advice. Maybe citizens advice bureau ? And see if you can get pip.there is a website called ' entitled to ' worth going on there to see what else you maybe entitled to. Hope you get things sorted 👍
Hi, I have retired early on ill health grounds. I was really struggling with various health issues including depression and was finding it harder and harder to carry on working. I looked into my private pension scheme and found there was a possibility of retiring early on medical grounds. It wasn’t easy because when I applied via work (they had to agree) I was sent for an appointment with a private impartial doctor who assessed me to decide whether I qualified or not for early retirement on medical grounds and if so how much because there are three levels, one being receiving all of your pension. I qualified with my full pension and have been retired since June 2022 at age 46. Also Unison were of a great help to me.
Often going private is a waste of money, as your own doctors often won't accept the results of any tests done by an outside agency. Don't bother with them.
Get hold of your Union (if any) Or join it! Also ACAS. Let HR know you are finding things too much as well, but they can't just sack you, there are procedures they must follow. Have you ever asked for accommodations to be made in consideration of your reduced stamina? (reduced hours, or a better chair for instance?)
Ask your employer or your doctor to refer you to the Occupational Therapists.. These are the ones who can recommend you for early retirement.
Are you on any Medications? Are you on any benefits?
All these things should be taken into consideration.
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