Hi all!
At the beginning of the year i started permitted work under income related esa. I applied for access to work and have most of the recommendations and sorting out transport. I also accepted the offer of mental health support through Remploy (now known as Maximus).
It has gone well and I am about to progress into a mostly remote role that is 21 hours, while hopefully keeping the causal role. I average around 7 hours a month in that role. The support from my coordinator has been amazing and I am so grateful for her support and encouragement.
Both roles are contracted till March/April 2023. I am waiting on the start date for the new role, and I am excited but nervous. Obviously if my contract is not extended, I will have to look for a new job but finding ones that can accommodate my needs and hours are few and far between. The thought of instability makes me feel sick.
I live with my mum who is receiving ESA, PIP and housing benefit. I have been on ESA since 2010 and I never thought I’d be in the position to return to work. The pay is around £200 more than my benefit.
I’ve had a few people tell me they think it’s a bad idea me returning to work and why would I give up my benefit. One of my siblings won’t stop asking me if this will affect my mums income. I told him I’ve looked into it and I can’t see it affecting her apart from they may not award her discretionary housing payment. What ever the outcome is, I’ll somehow find a way to cope but the anxiety seems to be increasing the closer I get to coming off benefit. Am I making the wrong decision?
