Working and benefits

[astondog]

I have been on long term Incapacity Benefit (due to 4 major ops on my right leg) I have heard that I can do some limited paid work on a theraputic basis, can anyone help me with any advice before I approach the Benefits Agency. Thank you.

[Mistopheles]

Yes, I'm on Incapacity and I'm allowed to work part time as well. It goes on the amount you earn - I think you can earn up to �66 per week, but you will need to confirm this. Just make sure you inform the Benefits Office as soon as you do get some work, even if it's only a few quid - otherwise it'll come back to haunt you later.

I'm not sure about the theraputic part though - I thought it was applicable to any job. I suppose mine could be theraputic though - on top of physical disabilities, I also have depression, so getting out the house and meeting people is good for me.

[astondog]

Thanks for your answer mistopheles.

[kazza12345]

in a pickle i dont understand why that would be a problem - surely if you are able to work, then they have a right to stop your benefit and ask you to go back into work?

if the dwp can prove that you are not unable to work, isn't that a good thing, rather than relying on benefits?

[astondog]

My idea was that even though I cannot get around without sticks there is nothing to stop me doing a limited amount of work on my bum with the qualifications I've got, that to would be just for how long I could sit comfortably. I just want to excersise my brain and not sit in the house doing ****** all

Astondog

[Solarjunkie]

No doubt the figures have changed, but not all that long ago my father was told he could do therapeutic work for no more than �15 a week, as long as it was not the type of work he did normally.

[kazza12345]

astondog - why dont you get a job in a call centre? you dont have t do any getting up and down and it probably pays better than incapacity benefit. Sure it's uncomfortable sitting on your bum all day, but they do allow breaks and even non-incapacitated people get uncomfy sitting for long periods, yet they manage. My husband used to manage a call centre, which employed disabled people (mainly leg problems) who were able to carry out this work

[patc7641]

I am an Incapacity Benefit Adviser, you are allowed to do Permitted Work whilst on Incapacity Benefit, this allows you to earn up to �81.00 per week as long as you do under 16 hours. You can normally do this for up to 52 weeks and keep all your Incapacity Benefit. The reason for this is it allows people to go back doing part time work if they are unable to go back full time. There is a time limit on it as it is a stepping stone back to coming off benefits. It should be noted that any earnings will affect people who are also claiming Income Support and Housing Benefit/ Council Tax Benefit. It should have no effect on DLA as this is a personal benefit and nothing to do with work, though you should tell them you are working. Incapacity Benefit is not for people who are unable to work, it is for people who are unable to carry out their usual work. That is why it is regularly reviewed through the Personal Capability Assessment. If you think you can do permitted work, you may find you would be better off doing 16 hours per week and coming off benefits as you may qualify for extra in work benefits through working tax credit. Call your Jobcentre and ask about help available to people on benefits.

[patc7641]

I should have added, if you are on Incapacity Benefit you can do unlimited hours voluntary work as long as you get no more than �20.00 per week. You do not even have to inform the DSS, however it is probably good practice. Again, speak to your IB Adviser in the Jobcentre, they may be able to help you find voluntary work or give some financial assistance.

[Mistopheles]

That's fantastic advice, thanks so much.

[astondog]

Thank you very much patc7641 I will take your advice on board and see what I can do. Unfortunately since I posted the question I have been told that I need a fifth operation on my right leg, I'll still be up for getting back to some kind of work though when I get over it. astondog