UC, Fit notes and working

pinkbuttefly89
pinkbuttefly89 Community Member Posts: 1 Listener
in Universal Credit (UC)

Hello,

I have tried to search for the answer but I can't seem to find one specifically same circumstances.

I've recently been diagnosed. The diagnosis and fit note triggered a Capability to work assessment. Life long condition.

The Dr wrote me a fit note for 8 weeks, for limited hours. When this expired, I asked for it to be extended. The new fit note, says I'm NOT fit for work. I didn't need a face to face appointment for the 2nd note so assumed they'd use the same information as the first.

So my question is, if I continue my limited hours of work, 5.5hrs x 3 days a week or Do I need to go down to zero hours? I simply can't afford to be living of UC money alone, company sick pay is shocking 😬

Tia

Comments

  • OverlyAnxious
    OverlyAnxious Community Member Posts: 5,907 Championing

    Hi,

    You can continue to work even when a fit note says 'not fit', as long as both you and your employer agree that working will not make your health any worse. (They have some responsibility for your health and won't want to risk legal action in future).

    As it's only been a few weeks, I take it you are still waiting for the WCA assessment? If you get put in the LCWRA group that will increase your UC payments which should help your financial situation.

    You may have to reduce hours slightly though. A WCA isn't usually possible while earning equal to 16 hours at minimum wage (approx £200). 3 x 5.5 hours would be 16.5 hours which is already over, and if earning more than minimum wage then you'll have to calculate how many hours you can do to stay under the limit.

  • Mary_Scope
    Mary_Scope Posts: 4,476 Scope Online Community Children and Family Specialists

    Hi @pinkbuttefly89 and a warm welcome to the community from me!

    I can see that OverlyAnxious has already answered your question and provided some excellent advice so I won't add anything else today but it's lovely to have you here and I hope you enjoy your time on the community😊

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