jobseekers allowance or incapacity benefit

jestaminnit

I have been in my new job for appx 2 months, the nature of the work has caused a re-currence of an old injury. The Doctor has given me two weeks off and suggested physiotherapy, which will not be available for three months. It's quite clear to me that I cannot continue in this job, and the Doctor appeared to agree. If I leave the position on health grounds how will it affect any benefits I may recieve? I have worked all my life so I have 45 years of contributions.

dmg24

Do you intend to seek another job? If not, you will need to claim ESA rather than IB.

Would it not be worthwhile paying for physio yourself? You will make up any outgoings quite quickly if it gets you back to work.

jestaminnit

dmg24 wrote: »

Do you intend to seek another job? If not, you will need to claim ESA rather than IB.

Would it not be worthwhile paying for physio yourself? You will make up any outgoings quite quickly if it gets you back to work.

Many thanks for prompt response. Yes I intend to find another job.I am sorry if I am a bit thick, but what is ESA and IB?

dmg24

jestaminnit wrote: »

Many thanks for prompt response. Yes I intend to find another job.I am sorry if I am a bit thick, but what is ESA and IB?

ESA is Employment and Support Allowance, which replaced Incapacity Benefit (IB).

If you are looking for another job, I would claim JSA. ESA is not an easy claim process, and if you are fit for some work you will be taken off it pretty quickly.

When applying for JSA, it would be helpful for your GP to write a small note explaining that you are fit for some work, but not for the job you were doing. This should ensure that you are not sanctioned for leaving your job.

jestaminnit

Just to a note to say Thank You very much, dmg24
I understand eveything much better now, your info and advice was really useful

THANK YOU