Hi, I'm David_C! I've had surgery to help my spinal stenosis. Could I qualify for other benefits?

David_C

I have just had spinal surgery to help prevent my spinal stenosis and myelopathy from worsening and leaving me wheelchair bound. The surgery seems to have been successful but I am left needing crutches to walk and with loss of feeling in my hand and an inability to grip things. I am currently on Universal Credit for job seekers. Do I qualify for some kind of incapacity or disability benefit as I am not in a position yet to go out looking for work? I have started physiotherapy in case that can help but the therapist seems lost regarding how to help me. I have applied for a PIP but I'm still waiting for a decision. Any help or advice will be warmly received.

poppy123456

HI,

If your health condition limits your capability to work then you need to report your health condition onto your journal and send a fit note within 7 days. After 29 days you'll be referred for a work capability assessment and then you'll receive forms to fill in and return. More details 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

David_C

Hello Poppy,
Thank you for the advice, I will contact my GP first thing.
Best regards,
David

Cher_Alumni

Hi @David_C and a warm welcome to our community, how are you today?

I hope the surgery helps with your spinal stenosis and myelopathy and as you begin to recover more, the issues with your hands and legs lessen.  

I'm glad @poppy123456 could help clarify the next steps around how to access a Work Capability Assessment (WCA).  Please keep us posted with how you get on and I'm wishing you all the best for the future.

Note: I've moved your thread to our 'What benefits am I entitled to?' category and amended the title to help make it more visible to others who may be searching.  Take care.