Hoping someone has some advice, universal credit work commitments — Scope | Disability forum
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Hoping someone has some advice, universal credit work commitments

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Jenwood
Jenwood Community member Posts: 2 Listener
edited April 2023 in Universal Credit (UC)
I lost my son unexpectedly in October, I'm not coping and struggling every day. I no longer have a job and I'm claiming universal credit. They said I have no work commitments for 6 months and have scheduled an appointment in June, will they expect me to return to work at this point? I'm not in a place where I will be able to cope returning to work, however I can't afford to live on the benefits I'm receiving, is there any other help I can get? 
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  • Alex_Alumni
    Alex_Alumni Scope alumni Posts: 7,562 Disability Gamechanger
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    Hello there @Jenwood and welcome to the community, thank you for reaching out. I'm so sorry to hear about the unexpected loss of your son, and that you've been struggling.

    It can be especially hard when we feel alone, even if we have people around us. If you feel you're struggling, then I'd encourage you to have a look at Cruse and The Good Grief Trust for some tailored support. Do you have a support network at home, or help from your GP?

    I'm not completely certain, but it's likely after 6 months that you and your work coach will want to review how things are for you, and you can explain that you're not in a place where you will be able to cope returning to work, if that is still the case. 

    If you are especially concerned about the appointment in June, you could put a note in your journal asking for information on what's expected, or what will be discussed. 

    Please ask if I can help with anything else in the meantime, the community is here to support you :) 
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  • calcotti
    calcotti Community member Posts: 10,010 Disability Gamechanger
    edited April 2023
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    After the 6 works you will be required to behave as a job seeker. Obviously you can start that before that if you wish to but without them having to insist on you. It's surprising they've left it until June because the last is for a six month period.
    Information I post is for England unless otherwise stated. Rules may be different in other parts of UK.
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  • Jenwood
    Jenwood Community member Posts: 2 Listener
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    I do have support and have contacted all of the charities to get some help including cruse, In on a waiting list for counselling. Thank you @Alex_Scope

    @calcotti I didn't start claiming universal credit untill January which would be the 6 months 
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  • Alex_Alumni
    Alex_Alumni Scope alumni Posts: 7,562 Disability Gamechanger
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    I'm glad to hear you've got support @Jenwood, thanks for your quick reply, and I hope you get some counselling in place soon :)

    Let us know if we can help with anything further
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    Scope

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