Job Predicament

johnsmithy

Hello,

As some of you are aware, I had to give up my job earlier in the year as the conditions were starting to have a negative impact on my mental health.

Anyways, three months on, I still am suffering with my back problems, which means that trying to find a new job may prove difficult for me. A prospective employer would not want to take someone on, who is still receiving treatment for their condition, surely? I did consider self-employed options, but I don't really know what my best options would be, under the circumstances.

I tried to claim E.S.A. under the circumstances, but they said I was unable to do so, based on particular earnings in the 2013-2014 tax year, suggesting I had enough to live on.

However, when the 26 weeks are up, would I still be able to claim job seekers allowance, or would it be the same situation?

Basically, I just wanted some advice as to what my options are as since I still have this condition, surely this is not going to look beneficial to a prospective employer, until the issue is sorted? All I can think is arranging another meeting with the C.A.B. and seeing what they suggest?

Many thanks,
johnsmithy

tomtontom

Many employees are receiving treatment for ongoing conditions, it doesn't stop them going to work. Are you capable of some work?

Do you have a partner that works, or capital over £16,000? These would be the reasons why you would not qualify for means tested benefits.

johnsmithy

Thanks tomtomtom,

The thing is, if I applied for a new job, would I be disadvantaged because I am still receiving medical treatment?

Thanks,
johnsmithy

bevanuk

johnsmithy wrote: »

Thanks tomtomtom,

The thing is, if I applied for a new job, would I be disadvantaged because I am still receiving medical treatment?

Thanks,
johnsmithy

The question is subjective, although your shouldn't be discriminated against some may, some may not. You have to take the chance.

If you can prove your commitment and ability to succeed in the role there shouldn't be a problem. If you're going to be off sick for a week at time throughout your time there then why would they take the chance?

[Deleted User]

Get in with a friendly employer - they do exist! you'll find these companies have already ill people, families types and the much older staff who whilst will perhaps still nit-pick but having been through 'life' are so gentler in a way, it's hard to describe to do it any justice

If you are prepared to accept national minimum wage - you'll also have an easier time as you get better in work

I'm not saying this to poke fun btw, as I have now experienced this with today actually confirming my beliefs just pity I was in the wrong job role


You could also try offering yourself on a trial basis to see where it takes you before committing

Frankieandbenny

I'm unsure how serious your back problem is and if it's been advised you work less etc but what might be a good option for you is to find somewhere that has flexible hours? A zero hour contract.

That way neither you or your employer is committing and relying on your health. Be sure to write on your cv how open minded you are to temporary work, flexible hours etc and explain that you're looking for this as a means to help support you whilst your recovering. If I was an employer I would find it refreshing to see someone who has thought about their options and isn't willing to give up work if they're still fairly capable to carry it out. Maybe when your back to full health there could be a permanent position to fall into. Health should come first and I'd always follow the advice of doctors, just to add that in

Nebulous2

There's no point in worrying about how a potential employer will or won't treat you. There may well be additional barriers to employment but you won't know until you try.
I'd suggest there are two areas you can work on.

Firstly do what you can to work on your health. Follow the advice given for your back and engage as fully as you can with the treatment.

Secondly work out what you want to do for employment and explore what the entry requirements are and how you can gain experience to make you the person they want to employ.

Both of these areas are under your control and are ways you can make a positive impact. How somebody might treat you is not directly, though if you can be positive about how your health has improved and how you meet their needs at interview that could make a difference.