benefit advise please help.

[shelly94]

Hiya all. I am newly diagnoses with spinocerabellar ataxia. My speech, balane and severe right arm weakness is becoming a real issue. I work part time on a computer. I would really like advise please re PIP. I know its been asked before but It is really stressing me out. I have never had to claim benefits etc. I understand the application etc but i am getting so confused as whether to go long term sick and then leave my job before applying for PIP. We have spent all our savings on a downstairs bathroom, wheelchair etc and also paying private for weekly physio appointments as the Covid situation really has caused long waiting lists etc.

[Sailor_Girl]

Hiya Shelly94

You are allowed to have someone help and advocate on your behalf, if required, in your application for benefits. A social worker friend of mine suggested I contact a national organisation such as:

carersuk.org

ageuk.org.uk

disabilityrightsuk.org/

ataxia.org.uk/newly-diagnos...

which was invaluable advice for me as I wouldn't have received what I'm entitled to otherwise.

Gina x

[shelly94 in reply to Sailor_Girl]

Thank you Gina. That is a big help as I am a member of ataxia uk. Its a mine field isnt it. I am paying privately for physio due to what could be months wait with the nhs re covid. I am going to ask physio for a report. I think then i will do a mock application and ask ataxia uk for their opinions. thanks again.

[wobblybee]

🙂 Just to add..Citizens Advice Bureau can be useful.

[shelly94 in reply to wobblybee]

I have got loads of info off cab online. they are brilliant.

[HarryB Administrator]

Hi Shelley94

PIP is a non means-tested benefit so there is absolutely no reason why you shouldn't apply for it while you are working and earning a salary, however much that may be.

I find the online resources on the CAB website invaluable. I am glad you find it helpful too!

Best wishes

Harriet

[shelly94 in reply to HarryB]

Thank you. I just worry they will say im not bad enough etc because i work.i know i need to bite the bullet and apply.

[auntiesally]

CAB are brilliant, they wrote a letter for me and helped me to fill in the forms, which can be daunting, good luck, you will never know unless you apply