IR ESA (Support Group) and Permitted Work

Hi,
I've been offered 10 hours of work a week, which will be very flexible to take into account my health issues. I know that once I'm transferred to Universal Credit I won't be able to attempt to do this without losing my mortgage interest support (SMI), so this is pretty much my last chance to give it a try. I've been offered just over minimum wage, but I know that even if I do the work for nothing I'd have to ask the DWP for permission. I'm very nervous about speaking to anyone about it in case I lose my benefits, but am desperate to see if I can do it. Does anyone have any advice?
Mags

Thank you Gordon. That is the most useful guide that I've read - I just wanted to make sure that when they mention the £20 earnings limit for people on Income Support, they don't mean Income Related ESA?

Yes, I've had my SMI loan pack through (joy!), but my area has recently transitioned to Universal Credit, so I expect to be migrated across at some point in the future (no idea when).

It was when I was trying to clarify the Permitted Work rules wrt Universal Credit (via my MP), that I discovered that even though there is an earnings allowance, if I do any paid work at all, my SMI will be removed. This means that I'd have to be pretty sure that I could keep working, as if I didn't I'd have to go through the 39 week waiting period to get it paid again. I have a copy of the confirmation letter from the DWP (with references) to my MP if you'd like a copy (?), but have no idea what will happen for people on Housing Allowance.

Mags

Hi Gordon,
The information that I received (by email and then by letter via my MP - after asking for clarification) doesn't seem to be consistent with the information from the link that you kindly provided or those that I've found elsewhere.

I don't want to risk upsetting anyone unnecessarily by posting incorrect information, so would it be possible to forward the email and a scanned copy of the letter to you?

Mags