Hi my name is looep

looep

I’m new to all of this. In full time employment but not sure how long I can keep it up for. 

poppy123456

You should never quit work before getting some expet advice. If you're entitled to SSP then your employer needs to pay you this for 28 weeks https://www.gov.uk/statutory-sick-pay/eligibility

If you claim SSP then you can look at claiming Universal Credit as well but whether you're entitled to this will depend on your circumstances. If you live with a partner you claim as a couple. If you have savings/capital of more than £16,000 you're excluded from claiming. Use a benefits calculator to check entitlement if you claim SSP.

looep

Hi poppy, thanks for your reply.

I’ve been having treatment for two years with chronic neck pain. My employer will pay sick pay but I live at work so don’t really want to be stuck here on the sick. I know I’ll have to soon if it doesn’t get any better. 

I was told I wouldn’t be entitled to benefits because I have a mortgage so would have to sell the house and live on what’s left. Which would make me homeless. Then I guess I’d run out of money and be entitled to benefits (that don’t cover the full rent). This system doesn’t make any sense to me. 

janer1967

Hi there.

That info isn't correct you can claim benefits when you own your own home and won't be forced to sell 

However you can't claim any help with your mortgage payments 

As suggested use z benefit calculator 

Once ssp has ended after 28 weeks you may be entitled to new style esa which isn't means tested you will need to have paid ni contributions in last 2 tax years 

Look at your company long term sick policy snd medical dismissal to see what the procedure is 

looep

Thank you Janer, This puts my mind at ease a little. I’ll find a way to still work and earn but just may  not be able to continue as I have been. My company are very good so if I have to leave they will give me time to move, sick pay etc.