really want to build strenght up to do paid work

saving_pennies

I'm disabled, and not had paid employment for 10 years. With permission from benefits people I was doing volunteer work - I built this up from 1 hr a week to 14 hours a week over about an 8 year period and really was looking to enter paid employment of 16 hours a week. Then I was involved in a car accident and my existing health conditions worsened as well as injury from the accident. I'm now in a wheelchair. I'm determined to continue doing some work activity and I'm struggling to do a max of 3 hours a week. I'm also struggling with a very part time course (twice a month) and although I have 1:1 support for this it has got to the point I might have to drop out. I really really want to build my strength up to go back to where I was before the car accident and into paid emplyment.

To help build my strength and stamina when I was in my early twenties I did a weekly part time evening college course as stepping stones to do more hours of activity a week. In the past I only had to pay £20 admin fee as I am on income support with severe disability premium and high rate care and mobility. But under the new government scheme my local colleges only offer discounted courses to those on job seekers or the work reated component of ESA. I'm sure it would benefit me to do an evening course as the local college is very supportive to people with disabilities and if I meet others in my situation (e.g. severe disabilities wanting to get back into work but unable to do even one day a week!) would encourage me further.

I'm also not sure if there is other help to get me into paid work. From what job centre have told me I need to be able to work 16 hours a week - but I cant! I so wish I could.

Is anyone in a similar position to me?
Does anyone understand support for people who want to work but can't do 16 hours a week?
Anyone know of how else I can build my strenght up. I thought a evening class as if I'm not well I can miss class, but if I volunteer for more hours and I'm not able to get there then I am letting people down.
I've heard of permitted work but was told this is only if on Incapacity Benefit. I'm on income support as I didn't pay enough stamps for IB.

Thanks for reading.

SailorSam

It's not getting you out but getting a Wii and starting gentle exercise at home may be a start to get back in it. I'd ask my Gp is there anything local, or even your local pool, swimming is one of the best exercises without putting strain on yourself.

saving_pennies

Thanks SailorSam.

Before the car accident I did go to the gym but now even lifting a shopping bag is too painful, but I think your right, if I do some gentle exercises at home it will help. I didn't think of the Wii but thats a great idea, I've heard it is fun. I see my GP in two weeks as she wants to review a new medication she has given me so will talk to her. I have asked if she can refer me to physio.

I wish there was a fast forward button so I could be in the position to do paid work now.