Hi, my name is Redster3! If I did a part time MA (one day pw) would I loose my benefits?

Redster3
Redster3 Online Community Member Posts: 3 Listener
edited July 2023 in Benefits and income
hey, new here and desperately seeking advise. 

I have Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and other complex health conditions. My mental health has been very low following the unexpected deaths of my parents a few years ago. 

I get Enhanced PIP (both) and Contribtion based ESA (support group).

I need a focus in life. 

If I did a part time MA (one day pw) would I loose my benefits? 

Im terrified to call benefits office to ask. I can’t sleep. 

I just need to feel my life is worth something. Sorry for the depressing first post. 

Any advise? 

Thank you. 

Red x

Comments

  • bg844
    bg844 Online Community Member Posts: 3,883 Championing
    It will not affect you so no need to report, as you receive contributions-based ESA then there'll be no deduction for any potential student finance.
  • Hannah_Alumni
    Hannah_Alumni Scope alumni Posts: 7,866 Championing
    Hello @Redstar3

    Welcome to the community! :)

    I'm sorry you have been struggling with wanting a purpose. I remember feeling the same before I decided to study my family history. My condolences on the loss of your parents. Can I ask, do you have support around you?

    Going back to study sounds interesting! Is there a specific course you are looking to do? 
  • poppy123456
    poppy123456 Online Community Member Posts: 64,463 Championing
    Are you 100% sure that all your ESA is contributions based? So many people get confused between the two. As you're in the Support Group if your ESA is more than £129.50/week then at least part of it will be income related. This would mean that if there's any maintenance loan available to you then it will affect the Income Related part, even if you decide not to take that loan. You should also tell them that you're studying. Same applies to housing benefit.
  • Redster3
    Redster3 Online Community Member Posts: 3 Listener
    Yes it is contribution based as my husband works so can’t get any means tested benefits. No housing benefit etc. full PIP. 

    I’m just thinking of options as my mental health is very low and the trauma of so many immediate family deaths has taken its toll. I’ve not even applied for anything so was just looking for helpful advice. 

    I’ll not bother looking into it further- I’ll stay as I am without any aspirations of a brighter future. 
  • poppy123456
    poppy123456 Online Community Member Posts: 64,463 Championing
    Then it will not affect any of your benefits. The reason i asked is because as i said, there's a lot of people that do get confused between the two.

    The only thing you need to be aware of is that if it contradicts the reasons why you're claiming PIP or ESA then it could go against you at your next review. This isn't saying it will because i don't know anything about your health conditions or how they affect you.
  • Redster3
    Redster3 Online Community Member Posts: 3 Listener
    Thank you, 

    I doubt I’ll even enquire as to a course but after teaching and acting professionally for over 20 years it’s hard to be housebound all wk.

    I have Ehlers Danlos Syndrome so my joint dislocate frequently and it sfedvtx interb organs especially heart and bowel. 
    I have severe mobility issues and would need a carer or PA if I did anything. 

    Thank you for your help and advice. It’s appreciated. 

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