So I went to see my Occupational Health at work....

Was in there for about 40mins. I've been off work due to RA and depression since 23rd of Decemeber. My GP has been great. Anyway went to this appointment and he wanted to look at the joints that were hurting me and he said yes... Looks like your RA is very severe. I told him that I'm having great difficulty getting to and from work aswell as doing repetitive work for 7 hrs. He said that it's a very difficult situation and he said about if I could find a place to live nearer to work or finding a job nearer to home..... 1. I can't afford to move to Central London as it's so expensive and 2. I'm not being funny, but who would want to employ me with having this disease..? In the report, he put that I'll be available for work in a few weeks?! I'm just worried because say if I'm not? I get 6 months full pay then 6 months half. What happens if I'm still not fit for work. My GP ain't got any problems with signing me off. Anyone else been in this situation. Oh he did mention phase return to work, which I did do a few years back, they cut my hours and made sure my work station was okay.. Thanks again xx

[cathie]

What sort of work do you do? It sounds as though finding work nearer to home - or from home - would make more sense. Although in the present climate I'm sure it isn't easy. But I'm amazed by central london housing prices, we used to live in south london about 25 years ago, and things have changed out of all recognition.

Depending on what you do, is there any chance of working at least partly from home? You dont say anything about what meds you're on, but that can make a difference, but there you need to see a rheumatologist. I hope you find a solution, a lot depends on what you do and your employer.

[Hidden]

Hi there, I work in an office 9-5 do a lot of data entry. I have looked into working from home, but unfortunately, there's no work I can do as we're dealing with payments. I'll see how I go in the next few weeks. The occupational health knows what medication I'm on, had to bring them all at the appointment. Thanks for your advice xx

[cathie]

Not so much advice as sympathy I'm afraid. I hope they can give you some support.

[Hidden]

Thanks Cathie x

[allanah]

Lou not so well so just wishing you the best , will write a replying tomorrowxx

[benjijen]

You're very fortunate to be paid. I used holiday and then SSP. Puts a strain on finances which doesn't help! I've cut my hours to 35 per week now. I now have an automatic car so can drive to work and it's not far away. I struggle with the stairs but my colleagues are very good. I would like to do some work from home but unable to do so. I agree that finding someone to employ anyone with this disease would be virtually impossible.

[sylvi]

Lou they can't finish you without just cause just because your ill. Question do you have DLA/Esa as it seems you are not fit for work. I would contact the dwp and see what help you can get if you can't work. I am on it,but i have my hubby and he supports me,if you live alone i am not sure you would be able to afford to leave work. There is other help out there,but you might need to look into that. I hope you can continue to work,but it is looking like you might have to consider cutting your hours for a start.xxxx