Advice needed for a newbie, haven’t a clue, lol.

Tillieg

Hi all and thanks for accepting me into your group.

First off, I’m in Northern Ireland so not sure if the same rules apply here as the rest of the UK.

I have recently been awarded the standard rate of PIP. From reading some threads on here I understand that PIP and LCW/RA are not connected? 

So I went off work sick on October 2022. I had no idea I had to report this to UC until a Lady from UC phoned me in December and advised me to upload my sicklines onto my journal. She said she would send out a questionnaire for me to fill in, still haven’t received this? So I have sicklines from my GP to cover me from October 6 with no gaps and I am still off work sick but feel I am now in limbo. I must add that I am married and have 2 young children. My Husband works ( self employed )  and we have been on UC for the last couple of years. Up until October 6 I worked part time for the NHS. I honestly don’t think I will be capable of returning  to work anytime soon but I am totally lost on what I should do next? Do I contact UC and ask what is happening?  I don’t find them very forthcoming with tips on what to do next. Any advice greatly appreciated. 

poppy123456

Usually your work coach will refer you for the work capability assessment on day 29 after reporting your health condition, providing you sent a fit note within 29 days of this (some conditions means a referral on day 1) If you didn't report your health condition until December then this is likely why you haven't been referred yet.

Once a referral is made you'll receive a letter onto your journal telling you it's been made and then you'll receive the work capability assessment form (UC50) in the post shortly after that. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/universal-credit-if-you-have-a-disability-or-health-condition-quick-guide/universal-credit-if-you-have-a-disability-or-health-condition

Tillieg

Thank you 😀

Cher_Alumni

Hello @Tillieg and a warm welcome from me to our online community, how's it going?

I can see Poppy has filled you in on the UC process regards a work capability assessment. It's a confusing process so you did the right thing in signing up to ask more 

I wondered if there was any possibility that your employer could make your job more manageable by implementing some reasonable adjustments? This could be a change to the physical environment or your working hours? That's something to consider and explore in any meetings you have with them.

We're wishing you all the best. Please let us know how you get on and good luck.

Tillieg

Thank you so much. I have a meeting tomorrow so I will discuss things further then, thanks for your lovely warm welcome and advice. 

L_Volunteer

How has your meeting gone @Tillieg? We are here for you and listening to you if you would like to share more with us or need any further support