What will my husband be entitled to?

SandyH

My husband aged 62 .. 3months ago had an accident at work and broke his back in 3 places. He came out of hospital 2days ago and we are struggling to find exactly what benefits he is entitled to. He has never claimed any sort of benefits in his  whole life.
He is in  wheelchair and and is double incontinent but not actually paralyzed.... but he cannot move his toes.... would appreciate any help anyone can give me. 

poppy123456

Hi,

As he was previously working then is he claiming SSP from his employer? This is usually paid for 28 weeks, with a fit note from his GP. Details in link. https://www.gov.uk/statutory-sick-pay

Once that ends he maybe entitled to New style ESA if he's paid enough NI Contributions from working in the previous 2 tax years. See link. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/new-style-employment-and-support-allowance He will also need a fit note from his GP and the SSP1 form from his employer to be able to claim this.

Depending on other circumstances, such as household income, savings and capital you maybe entitled to claim Universal Credit but you'll need to claim this as a couple because it's a means tested benefit. Whether you're entitled to anything will depend on whether you work and how much income your earn. Putting both details into a benefits calculator will tell you whether you're entitled to anything https://www.entitledto.co.uk/ He will also need a fit note to claim limited capability for work under UC.

It maybe worth speaking to an advice agency near you for a full benefits check.

PIP may also be a possibility as it's not means tested but he'll need to have had the condition for at least 3 months and expect it to last at least a further 9 months. PIP isn't awarded based on any diagnosis, it depends how your conditions affect your ability to carry out daily activity based on the PIP descriptors. Evidence will be needed to support his claim and a face to face assessment is most likely. See link. https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/sick-or-disabled-people-and-carers/pip/before-claiming/how-much-you-get-and-how-long/

Chloe_Scope

Hi @SandyH and a very warm welcome to the community. I am so sorry to hear about your husband and cannot imagine the impact this change has had on your lives. @poppy123456 has given some great advice, and I hope this will be beneficial.

If you need anything clarifying then please do let us know. We appreciate how unknown the whole process can be when you have never done it before!