0hr contract and no SSP

helenmwill

Hi, I am hoping for a bit of advice please as no answers from UC journal.
I am currently on a zero hr contract but since May 5th, I have been uploading fit notes on to UC. I am not entitled to SSP as I do not have 'qualifying hours' - probably didn't help that I kept gradually reducing hours due to back/hip pain (now have MRI results diagnosing herniated disc/DDD) .
I am very worried as to how we will manage financially as I have a daughter in nursery and therefore have been receiving 85% childcare . I physically cannot work (struggle to move most days) and I'm waiting for appointment with spinal team to discuss next step, but I'm aware that understandably if not employed, then I won't receive childcare help.
I cannot take my daughter (2.6yrs) out of nursery as I struggle looking after her on my own due to my lack of mobility as well as not wanting to lose her place. She also gets the stimulation and support she needs (developmental trauma disorder).
I believe if I was receiving SSP UC would continue to help with childcare - is this the case if no SSP but officially still employed? I know I cannot return to same work due to the lifting/bending etc (nursery assistant) so feel I should let my employer know, but would that cause an issue?
Thank you in advance.

calcotti

Unfortunately if you are not getting SSP I don't think you will be eligible for UC help with childcare costs.
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/universal-credit-childcare-costs#who-is-eligible-for-universal-credit-childcare-costs

poppy123456

I agree with calcotti. If you're claiming UC with a partner once you've had your work capability assessment then if you're found to have either LCW or LCWRA then you could be entitled to it if you're unable to look after your children.

helenmwill

poppy123456

Your partners earnings have nothing to do with a work capability assessment for you. You are correct, if you're not claiming a disability benefit yourself, providing your earnings are less than 16 x NMW/week then you can be referred for a WCA. See G1030 to G1033 https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1166300/admg1.pdf

helenmwill

Thank you very much Poppy, that's a great help .
Apologies for duplicate post- suddenly thought I might have needed to start new thread instead😊

L_Volunteer

Please don't worry @helenmwill - I am sure you will soon feel more settled with posting. In the meantime, if there's anything we can do to help please don't hesitate to let us know