Pip and esa

Hi Samantha

If you have a partner who is working or on CB ESA, if you apply for NS ESA then their income is not taken into account as NS ESA is not a means tested benefit.

NS ESA and UC are not the same in regard to sickness payments; NS ESA pays Class 1 NI Credits which in addition to being used in regard to your State Pension can also be used (in part), for a new claim of NS ESA. UC only pays Class 3 Credits which can only be used for your pension.

Gary

Hi Samantha

You will not be placed in the support group unless you are claiming legacy benefits.

You may be placed in the LCWRA group which is the same as the legacy support group, If you are placed in LCWRA group, then you will receive an extra premium with your UC payments of £341.92 pcm.

Gary

Hi Samantha

The company you work for get funds from the Government to help with your pay, they will probably be insured and therefore claim from their insurers. Your main task is to try and get better without worrying about your employer. Remember SSP only lasts for 6 months, after which you can apply for NS ESA unless your employer has a sick scheme which last longer.

If you have paid correct NI contributions, to claim NS ESA you will need a 'fit note' from your doctor when you apply.

If you are worried about your employment rights, contact ACAS www.acas.org.uk Helpline 0300 123 1100, Open Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm. They will be able to put your mind at ease.

Gary

Hi Samantha,
Have you thought about part-time work? Otherwise, is there a different job you could do with the same employer that might work better with your illness/disability. An employer (present or future,) has a duty to make 'reasonable adjustment' to accommodate illness/disability. This could include many things, such as reduced hours, different work, working on the ground floor if stairs are difficult, providing ergonomic computers, chairs etc, etc. Obviously 'reasonable' will depend on what might be required, how much it costs and the general feasibility of what's proposed. You could speak with your HR department and see if they could organise a workplace assessment (usually done by an Occupational Therapist.) If your employer agreed to reduced hours, and this was something you could manage, if your income fell below the relevant threshold, you may still be able to claim UC to bring your income in line with the minimum amount everyone should get. It is worthwhile considering all the options, and make sure you discuss these fully with your GP and employer. Of course, as stated before, if you fulfil the criteria, PIP will be available to you whether you continue working or not.
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