Pip and Lcwra... can I work?

azulmel

Hi all,

I'm new to this platform but also I'm still quite new/learning to navigate through my disability where there is no guarentee treatment. So here's a bit of background info-

I have fibromyalgia and severe anxiety/depression disorder and haven't worked since August, followed by my immediate resignation from my job I was signed off from from the pressure of trying to make me return to work. This has happend in my last 2 jobs as I have done everything I could to keep going but dropped from full time to part time to nothing, as there is many triggers out there that can set off flare ups/anxiety attacks.

Since April 2022 I have been awarded standard living and mobility PIP payments and last week I was awarded LCWRA as well which is a massive help, however I feel like I need a small p/t job to make up the difference as the cost of living is so bad and due to being tide in with contracts from over a year ago when I was financially in a better position... I need the extra cash to help, I am a single mum and I don't claim any maintenance from my daughters dad as he skipped the country.

My question is will I loose my Pip and LCWRA payments if I get a part time job and also is it wise for me to return to work when I could potentially be putting myself into the same situation again?

I am getting pressure from friends and family that I should work as it will be good for me but I don't want to ride the merry-go-round when it's not always fun.

TIA, I know it's a long run but I felt I had to explain myself to give some context to my situation! Anyone in the same shoes would really appreciate your experience and any advise!

poppy123456

There's no limit to the hours you can work while claiming UC even if you've been found to have LCWRA. If you start working you will need to report a change of circumstances. Then tell them that you're working.

You will have the work allowance, which means that a certain amount of earnings received each month will be ignored before the deductions apply. If you claim for help with the rent your work allowance will be £344/month, if you don't it will be £573/month.

PIP isn't affected. However, if the work you do contradicts the reasons why you're claiming PIP and LCWRA then it can go against you at your next review.

If you're claiming council tax reduction you must also report the changes to your local Authority.

L_Volunteer

I just want to add a warm welcome @azulmel. I also have fibromyalgia! So, I can only empathise here. 

How does the pressure from friends and family make you feel? I always say you know yourself, your needs and your body/health best. 

How are you managing your mental health at the moment - do you have the support you need and deserve? Please don't hesitate to let us know if we can do anything to help 

Cher_Alumni

Hello @azulmel and welcome to our online community, how's it going today?

Thanks for telling us your story, I know much of it will relatable to our other members. The conflict between recognising our health needs against meeting financial obligations can be tough. I wonder if it would be worth speaking with Stepchange about coming to an alternative payment agreement for any contracts/debts you have outstanding?

If you want to get back to us about anything mentioned, or anything you remain unclear about, then please do  Take care and wishing you and your little family all the best.