Catch22

[abracad]

Something that really sucks is that it is extremely difficult to hold down a job but it seems nobody is sick enough to claim benefits! I am fortunate to still be working full time but then can't even change my bedding as a result and spend most weekends recovering. Would truly benefit from going part-time but don't have a partner & really think a battle to claim benefits would finish me off! I love to see the encouragement on here for each other with these and other struggles. Well done people.

[abracad]

Thankyou Ajay. I didnt even think about looking it all up in advance! I just fret a bit about how long I can continue (especially through a bad flare up). Just keep thinking I have another 12 years until I can claim my pension!

[Frankiebeee]

I feel the same as am self-employed but would really benefit if I could work part-time to survive. I always feel am on the edge of it all so can't claim anything

[Ramjets]

Hi abracad , I was in similar position to you 3 years ago, working full time but really struggling and spending all my time off resting and recuperating in order to be (just barely) fit for work. Eventually though I pushed myself too far and had to stop work altogether. I took a couple of years off and in that time found a way to manage my condition to the point where I recently felt up to returning to work on a part-time basis. I have been back at work for nearly 3 months and so far it is going okay. However I was lucky to have a husband in full-time work so he was able to support me in that time as the benefits I was entitled to were minimal (despite me being in full-time employment for 30yrs!). In hindsight I wish I had acted sooner so I would suggest you look into your options as Hidden has mentioned. You may also find it helpful to speak to Janet, the FMAUK Benefits advisor who I am sure can offer you further guidance. The link below will take you to her contact details as well as other links yo may find useful at some point. Good luck and keep us posted how you get on. Take care. x

healthunlocked.com/fibromya...

[Hazel_Angelstar Administrator FMA UK Staff]

It can be a major struggle trying to get the right balance that allows you to work and have a life. If you were successful in getting pip... You can possibly claim disabled tax credits if you work 16+ hours. This would allow you to cut hours, but also have the money from tax credits and pip to make up the money you would lose from doing less hours.

I work 16 hours but only works out financially because of my pip and tax credits xxxx