Hi folks, thanks to everyone who replied about taking CBT oil. I phoned our helpline and spoke to a lovely lady for advice. Today, 01/11/2021, had an appointment with my consultant, Dr Hider a lovely lady and asked her opinion. A resounding firm NO. Yes to alternative medicine but proceed with caution and if in doubt contact her or a nurse for advice. I mentioned ginger and turmeric, some scientific proof so yes and Google for advice on diet and arthritis. I've also begun listening to a meditation and healing tape at night which is helping. I'm doing okay.
Had an unpleasant letter from the DWP re fitness to work. I'm struggling with mobility, no longer feel comfortable driving partly because both knee caps need replacing and there is a long waiting list to have them replaced. I can no longer type at 60/70 wpm or even 30/40 wpm now due to my hands, I'm 63 years and not doing enough to find work! I'm doing a proofreading course which has cost me about £500.00, they wouldn't pay and getting good results. There should be freelance work at the end of it through the course provider and they will help me advertise for my own clients. I've told this to the DWP, what more do they want? The letter upset me. NRAS have said it's a familiar story and DWP have no understanding of what we face. Some nights I'm in pain waking up several times, some mornings dressing is difficult. My benefits have a little longer to run and there is no problem with having a sicknote issued. Any problems speak to my doctor and seek advice from the CAB and NRAS of course.
Good health to you all.
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Ritaritis
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Hi Ritaritis I have no advice re the DWP as it seems they are quite hard on everyone at the moment but wanted to ask what the course for proof reading course with help to find work was as I’d love to be able to do something less taxing on the body like that but haven’t had any good ideas on what to do it where to start!
Hi iAce, I spent my working life as an audio/copy typist, local government, social services, police et al and ended up typing insurance fraud reports. Accuracy was essential. The courses aren't cheap but they are CPD - Continuing Professional Development approved and certified. I'm with the Proof reading Academy. It's about spelling, grammar, layouts, making sense of the text. An eye for detail is essential. In the past I've sewn knitted aran and fairisle and at one time made and demonstrated Pillow lacemaking, that all helps. I can't go back to typing due to the arthritis and don't want call centre type work. I can't stand for long periods of time. Look online for the courses, some companies will send you a trial lesson before committing. The DWP will not fund the course. Check out the Careers Service website and they will give you some information as to what is involved. Hope this helps. Good luck.🐕🐕🐕
Oh thank you so much! I will heed everything you’ve said and look into those suggestions you’ve mentioned I do wish you all the best in your endeavours as well!! 👍
The DWP is a 'one size fits all attack'. It's difficult not to let it get to you when you are making great efforts to find alternative work, but you need to be firm and calm with them (not easy) and repeatedly tell them what efforts you are making. They have to record that they have told you off, so that's another person done, and it isn't personal!
Hi Oldtimer, I answered all questions truthfully but at the time unaware both knees need replacing which makes driving/walking uncomfortable. have bought a couple of meditation tapes to help me relax. Living alone with no family doesn't help as no-one to turn to. 🐕🐕
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