Incapacity or DLA?

gargoyle

Can my husband claim anything if he's been advised not to work by his doctor? He has quite bad depression and the medication he is on now often makes him very drowsy and unable to function very well at times. I've had a look and it notes down depression on its mental health part, but mainly seems geared towards physical disability. Also I work full time and have always supported our family on my own, but after 6 years of doing this I feel if we can get some help it would be a bonus. Even if it's only some help towards paying someone to pick up our daughter when he's having a bad day. Can anyone advise?

Oldernotwiser

Your first port of call should be to look at the possibility of his claiming Employment Support Allowance which has replaced Incapacity Benefit.

calleyw

The OP has not mentioned when her husband last worked. For ESA (replacement for IB) based on NI contributions if he has not worked for the last 6 years which is sort of hinted at by the OP. He will not be able to claim.

As the OP is working I doubt that he will be able to get the income related part of ESA. Unless the OP earns very little money. less than what the government suggest a couple with a child can live on.

They have a child so should be getting tax credits.

Might be able to get DLA but that is based on need rather than condition itself. DLA comes in two flavours mobility and care needs. If he can walk about and look after himself when out and about doubtful. To be able to get lower rate care you need to not be able to make a meal for yourself so chop and peel veggies type thing.

To get middle rate or above the person needs over one hour of care per day that would include help while showering, dressing etc.

I know this site is the RNIB but it does lay it very well for you about the needs to get DLA.

All the best.

Yours


Calley

mealone

gargoyle wrote: »

Can my husband claim anything if he's been advised not to work by his doctor? He has quite bad depression and the medication he is on now often makes him very drowsy and unable to function very well at times. I've had a look and it notes down depression on its mental health part, but mainly seems geared towards physical disability. Also I work full time and have always supported our family on my own, but after 6 years of doing this I feel if we can get some help it would be a bonus. Even if it's only some help towards paying someone to pick up our daughter when he's having a bad day. Can anyone advise?

Have you approached social services for assessment for both you and your husbands needs?

It may be possible to get help with your daughter vis social services and you have needs as a carer too, your wage is discounted if your husband is offered help.

Do claim DLA and your husbands NI contributions needs attention if hes had none in 6 years, HRP or NI credits only via ESA are possible.

Oldernotwiser

calleyw wrote: »

The OP has not mentioned when her husband last worked. For ESA (replacement for IB) based on NI contributions if he has not worked for the last 6 years which is sort of hinted at by the OP. He will not be able to claim.

I didn't read it like that at first but looking at it again I think that your reading is right.

calleyw

Oldernotwiser wrote: »

I didn't read it like that at first but looking at it again I think that your reading is right.

ONW it is not clear but that is the way I have read it.

I sure the OP will come back and confirm if that is true or not.


Yours


Calley

SuziQ

I doubt very much if they will get help from Social services and certainly not free. As a Health Vistor I spent many hours trying-and failing to get support for families in this very situation.

gargoyle

yes, you are correct, he hasn't worked for 6 years. I have struggled on my own. but now i'm losing the battle with rising costs but no rise in wages