Hi, my name is VickyB! wondered how I go about getting some financial help?

VickyB

Hi , new here .. wondered how I go about getting some financial help ? 

I’m self employed part time and was originally on working tax credits before Covid , This topped up my earnings as I have suffered with Crohn’s disease since 2000. 

During Covid my claim changed to universal credit and now they’re hassling me to find extra work . Going into the job centre every week . Filling out online job searches . 

I can only work a few hours before extreme fatigue kicks in . I have daily muscles aches and pain , dry eyes . Severe urgency to use the loo throughout the day . Tummy spasms..  I work a day and the following day I’m completely wiped out . 

I’ve applied for disability twice and it’s was rejected both times . Im not sick enough for PIP but not healthy enough to manage working full time . I’m at my wits end and honestly don’t know where to go for help . Anyone have some wonderful advice for me ? 

Hannah_Scope

Hello @vickyb

I'm so sorry to hear you are struggling with this. I am a fellow IBD'er with Ulcerative Colitis and know how fatigue can completely knock you for ten!

PIP isn't about a diagnosis or how sick you are, many people work and claim PIP as it helps cover additional medication costs. Can I ask, when you say you applied for disability, do you mean applying for LCWRA? 

Kimmy87

It is LCWRA through Universal Credit that you should apply for.
One of the continence descriptors gives 15 points and meets LCWRA threshold, I can't see how you wouldn't have much trouble qualifying due to how bad your Crohns is.

https://crohnsandcolitis.org.uk/info-support/information-about-crohns-and-colitis/all-information-about-crohns-and-colitis/benefits-and-finances/disability-benefits

https://www.benefitsandwork.co.uk/universal-credit-uc/uc-faq/limited-capability-for-work-related-activity

If you decide to apply when you get the UC50 form do get outside help filling it in, all too often we get so used to our ways of managing health issues, it takes an outsider to flag it as abnormal and something that needs to go on the form. 

VickyB

Hello ! Thank you so much ! That’s so helpful . I’m seeing them tomorrow will ask for it 😊🙏

VickyB

@Hannah_Scope I applied for Disability at the time completely unaware until today about this LCWRA. It’s never been mentioned even though I’ve taken Drs letters to UC appointments with me about my health . 

I will definitely be asking about it during my next appointment which is tomorrow. Thank you , I feel there is some light at the end of the tunnel finally 🙏

poppy123456

You will only be able to be referred for a work capability assessment if your earnings are less than 16 x NMW per week because you’re not claiming a disability benefit.

If your earnings are less than this you will need to report a change of circumstances. Then click health condition and report it through there. You will need to provide a fit note within 7 days of that and continue to provide them without any gaps until a decision is made on the work capability assessment. 

You should be referred on about day 29 after reporting your health condition. You will then receive the UC50 form in the post to fill in and return with all your evidence. More information here 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

Hannah_Scope

@VickyB I hope they are able to help!