Substantial risk

I have severe back problems and have recently had surgery which hasn't worked and there is a discussion on further surgery in the near future plus I'm on high levels of pain meds. I have had to claim UC as my sick pay has expired and will not be able to return to work as previously planned. When I look at the descriptors for LCWRA I don't think I can achieve enough points but have read about ' substantial risk'. How do you prove this and does it even work for back problems? I don't know what else I can do as I am unable to work. Thanks

Hi Mazztm00

On Universal Credit (UC), "substantial risk" is a criterion within the Work Capability Assessment (WCA) that means there's a strong possibility of serious harm to a claimant's physical or mental health if they were found not to have Limited Capability for Work (LCW) or Limited Capability for Work-Related Activity (LCWRA). This applies even if the claimant doesn't score enough points for LCW, as it acts as a safety net for those whose health would be significantly impacted by undertaking work-related activities or being deemed fit for work. If you have had surgery that hasn't worked for you back and you are facing further surgery, you could be at substantial risk of further damage to your back before it is operated on. Being on high levels of pain medication will have an impact on your ability to get to work, and actually do the work if you got there. I would get proof from your doctor and any letters from the hospital regarding current diagnosis, symptoms and medication.

BIS