Hello, I’m new on here

[Harrysgran]

I had an aortic valve replacement in 2017.It took a long time for me to feel well afterwards and I struggled to work 3 days as a nurse in a busy hospital.last year I cut down to 2 days.i find it physically exhausting ,I also have arthritis in my spine for which I’ve just had to take sick time off and at the age of 64 I don’t know how much longer I can carry on working but I don’t know how to find out if I would be able to claim any kind of benefits.would I have to have a dreaded assessment ? Can I apply for PIP? The DWP pay for taxis to get me to work but I’m worn out trying to cope.Has anyone else been in this situation ?

[Milkfairy Heart Star]

Hi Harrysgran

Welcome to the forum.

Have you considered retiring from the NHS and claiming your pension? Many Nurses and Midwives retire at 55 so I am impressed you are still able to work at 64 !

Have you discussed your issues with your Occupational Health Department?

You may find this information useful below or I suggest you talk to Citizens advice Bureau.

turn2us.org.uk/Benefit-guid...

Good luck!

[Harrysgran in reply to Milkfairy]

Thank you for your reply. I am in fact semi retired from the nhs. Ive “ retired and returned” working 2 days pw and took my pension but its not a big pension as i spent 16 yrs working for a charity run hospice then had a brain haemorrhage so have worked part time for the past 17 yrs.

I feel Angry as years ago not only could you retire at 60 with a state pension but it was easier to get incapacity and sickness benefits especially with heart problems.Ive worked very hard for nearly 50 years, kept my family when my husband became disabled and now im having to struggle on working for an extra 6 years with health problems . It seems very unfair.

Pardon my self pity! I just need to let off steam 😤!

[Milkfairy Heart Star in reply to Harrysgran]

Oh I get it. Let off the steam.

[Harrysgran in reply to Milkfairy]

Thanks for the link also. Ive just been on it and judging by the rigid questions i wouldnt have a cat in hells chance of qualifying for PIP eventhough the DWP pay taxis for me to get to work.

I’ll just have to hope my valve lasts long enough for me to enjoy at least some retirement at age 66 🤷‍♀️

[Milkfairy Heart Star in reply to Harrysgran]

I have sent you a PM

[Expostie]

Hi had mine replaced 3 years ago and was assessed as to wether I could return to work.

I got 1 years credit after 40 years of work and that was that.

Don’t expect any favours it’s basically get on with it.

I now work 2 days a week I’m 62 four years of retirement but have private pension and Royal Mail but I’m also close to calling it a day.

I was told you’ll be fine in 3 months not likley!.

Good luck.

[Harrysgran in reply to Expostie]

Expostie, i feel your anger , things are very tough these days. Its survival of the fittest and there isnt the help out there anymore even when youve worked all your life. I couldnt stand the indignity of “ begging” for benefits and having to prove im not fit for work anymore anyway.

By the way, my husband is a postie 😊

Seems we have both just got to carry and hope our valves dont give out !