On SSP and need advice

Shazza1

Hello I’m on SSP due to suspected small fibre peripheral neuropathy and I have osteoarthritis in my hands and now being checked for psoriatic arthritis. I started a claim for universal credit on 12th Jan and advised sick notes started from 4th December I’m getting pressure from my job about returning and they may be able to change my role so I could maybe work one day a week as I’m worried about losing my job especially if I don’t get accepted for the LCWRA or pip. I have not been asked to do an assessment yet or been sent a form but assume I will get sent this once I submit my next sick note on 5th Feb. So is it possible to do a one day week so I don’t lose my job whilst waiting to go through the LCWRA process which will of course stop my SSP payments if I do. As the LCWRA process os so lengthy I don’t know what to do and can’t pay my mortgage or bills and am currently getting food from a food bank

poppy123456

Usually a referral for a work capability assessment will be made from day 29 after providing a fit note. Though it can sometimes be later.

As your claim for UC didn’t start until 12th Jan then this will be when it will be from if found to have LCWRA and not 4th Dec which was the date on your fit note. UC can only be backdated for a maximum of 1 month I the most extreme circumstances.

You can work while claiming UC but you need to be aware that if your earnings are more than 16xNMW per week then you can’t be referred for a work capability assessment, unless you’re in receipt of PIP.

You also need to be aware that if the work you do contradicts the reasons for your fit notes then it can go against you but I’m not saying it will. 

Shazza1

Thank you for that. Well the role I was doing involved walking 15-20k steps, working deliveries and heavy lifting which I certainly can’t do anymore  but they may be able to give me a job sitting on the till. Does that seem a reasonable change? 

Albus_Scope

Hey there @Shazza1 and welcome to the community.

I can see Poppy is already supporting you with your questions, but I just wanted to pop in and say hello.  

Shazza1

Thanks for the welcome. My head is spinning with all the health issues and pressure from work. And it doesn’t help that o don’t have a conclusive diagnosis on my neuropathy yet even though it’s been going on nearly 4 years

Albus_Scope

No problem @Shazza1 I know what it's like juggling all the health issues, work and benefits all at the same time. It's not easy, so please try and be gentle with yourself.  We're all here to help if you need us. 

Shazza1

Thank you Albus I have so many questions my head is going to burst 😂

Albus_Scope

Haha, I know that one very well @Shazza1! If you have other questions for the community, please fire away, we're all here to help.  

Or if you wanted to take your mind off things, our Coffee Lounge is great for chatting and we have the Games room if you want a bit of easy fun.

Shazza1

Yes I will thank you