Bells Palsy and Benefits

nik_k

Viktory - I sense some animosity!!! If I was in work, I wouldn't have the same problem right now. It is the fact that I am out of work, seeking work, that is my obstacle.

Not sure why you felt it necessary to mention the WPW syndrome, as this is completely unrelated!!!

I don't want to claim anything if I can help it. However, there comes a time when food needs to be put on the table...

Thank you Feelinggood for a more constructive answer! I will have a chat to my GP.

nik_k

WOW...I cannot believe some people!!! I have a physical and psychological problem which, for reasons out of my control, is stopping me finding a job. So I came onto this site, which has been very helpful in the past to me, to look for some advice from people who may, in the past, have been in the same boat.

What do I get from you Viktory...abuse!!!

I am not in any way using my Bells as an excuse to claim benefits instead of seeking work. I am just asking whether the collective view is that it would or would not amount to an eligible reason for claiming E&SA.

bestpud

Your wife can claim the couple element of JSA anyway. Only one of you needs to be signing on as you have a child.

Or are you saying you should get more than other couples in this situation because of the BP?

feelinggood_2

bestpud wrote: »

Your wife can claim the couple element of JSA anyway. Only one of you needs to be signing on as you have a child.

Also, how helpful are the Job Centre with issues like this? Would it be worth the OP talking to them, would they be able to offer advice and support about jobseeker with his concerns?

nik_k

Aarrgghh...it is not the fact that I am unwilling to work, it is the fact that, when I look in the mirror, I see no reason why any employer would look favourably on me ahead of any other applicant! Yes, the majority of all this is a psychological problem, but a problem nonetheless. It's a problem which is affecting my confidence and ability to go out and look for work, which in turn is stressing me and thus probably not helping with my recovery...

bestpud

feelinggood wrote: »

Also, how helpful are the Job Centre with issues like this? Would it be worth the OP talking to them, would they be able to offer advice and support about jobseeker with his concerns?

Maybe. I guess it depends who they get...

But only one of them needs to be actually jobseeking so it seems better for them that it is the wife at the moment.

nik_k

bestpud wrote: »

Your wife can claim the couple element of JSA anyway. Only one of you needs to be signing on as you have a child.

Or are you saying you should get more than other couples in this situation because of the BP?

My earning capacity is more than my wife's. Therefore, foresaking the mess which self-employment was for her, I would ordinarily be the main earner. As such, considering the fact that I am unable to go out and look for work, I was (perhaps mistakenly) thinking of applying for E&SA.

nik_k

Its not about holding down a job...its about getting a job in the first place

sleepymy

The fear of not getting a job because of how you look atm isn't a valid reason for claiming sickness benefits. It's hard enough for people who are unable to work due to severe health problems to claim and keep benefits as it is. My FIL still went to work when he had bells, diabetes, angina, depression and arthritis in his shoulder, and he was lifting coffins half the day.

hanny83_2

If ESA is the same in regards to IB (in that you need to have paid your NI conts before claiming) you won't be able to claim. Hopefully someone can clarify this as I am unsure of it myself.